Apartment R5

A lover of Japanese aesthetics and minimalism approached us with a desire to renovate an apartment in a historic residential building in Rožna Dolina. The unique spatial context and the client’s unconventional wishes became the starting point for exploring a lighter, yet more dynamic way of living.

We placed light at the forefront as an architectural element, alongside clear compositional accents, the importance of empty space, and a connection with nature. The central element of the apartment is a Zen garden positioned at its heart, around which the individual functions are organized. The living room and study are directly oriented towards it, while the kitchen and dining area and the bedroom are connected to it more indirectly. The garden is therefore not merely a decorative element, but actively shapes the spatial organization and the everyday experience of the apartment.

The space is defined by a varied floor topography. Changes in floor levels mark transitions between functions and shape the character of individual spaces. Due to its presence, the entrance is the highest point, followed by the main social spaces, while the bedrooms are set lower and the bathrooms, reflecting their intimate character, are positioned at the lowest level. The varied floor levels create different degrees of openness and intimacy, resulting in an engaging spatial landscape.

The material language is clear. Microcement forms a continuous floor and a unified backdrop, while stainless steel is used where durability and robustness are essential. The cooler materials are balanced by the warmth of wood and carefully crafted furniture details.

The project became an opportunity to explore how the principles of Japanese aesthetics—balance, emptiness, nature, and a thoughtful approach to detail—can be translated into a contemporary way of living. Architecture is not only about shaping the appearance of a space, but, above all, about shaping the way it is experienced.