Split Level House by OFIS Architects: Modern Slovenian Villa with Timeless Design

Located in Ljubljana, Slovenia, the Split Level House by OFIS Architects (2024) is a masterclass in contemporary residential architecture, blending historical context, natural surroundings, and modern living. The project sits along Večna pot, one of Ljubljana’s oldest streets, a path winding through ancient forests and the slopes of what is now Tivoli Park.

Historical and Geographical Context

The site of the villa has a rich history. Historically, this area formed the shores of a prehistoric lake within the Ljubljana basin. Evidence of pile-dwelling settlements suggests that the land was once submerged, and early dwellings adapted to flooding risks. Pre-regulation architecture evolved here with raised ground floors and semi-underground basements to mitigate flood damage. This historical legacy influenced the villa’s design, especially the use of a monumental portico, a functional and symbolic architectural element.

Architectural Layout and Spatial Planning

Positioned at the corner of two streets, the villa’s layout responds dynamically to its urban context. The corner location dictated both the façade treatment and the dual-entrance strategy. The main formal entrance features a grand portico that elevates the ground floor, marking the ceremonial ritual of entry. This leads into a foyer and a spacious living area, connected to the first floor via a double-height void, creating a dramatic vertical spatial experience.

A secondary street-level entrance serves as the family’s everyday access. The ground floor accommodates a modern kitchen, dining and family room, and service areas, while a rectangular staircase seamlessly connects all three levels. The upper floor is dedicated to private sleeping quarters, ensuring a clear separation between public and private zones.

Materiality and Façade Design

The villa’s striking black brick façade establishes a strong connection to the local context. The surrounding soil, composed of black peat, echoes the dark tones of the Ljubljana marshes, and the brickwork subtly dematerializes the building’s volume, contrasting beautifully with the surrounding greenery. The south-west corner of the house cantilevers over the ground floor, incorporating a large panoramic window overlooking the marsh, visually linking interior spaces with nature.

Architectural Themes and Design Language

The Večna pot Villa interprets timeless architectural motifs. The portico entrance, corner composition, and tripartite façade organization reference classical architecture while integrating modern design principles. The villa’s overall form weaves historical references with contemporary aesthetics, creating a cohesive and elegant addition to Ljubljana’s urban fabric.

Design Team and Project Details

• Architects: OFIS Architects
• Year: 2024
• Photographers: Tomaz Gregoric, Janez Martincic
• Structural Engineering: Project PA
• Mechanical Engineering: STROJNIK
• Electrical Engineering: Elektrobiro

This project demonstrates sustainable urban residential design, modern Slovenian architecture, and thoughtful integration of history, landscape, and daily life into a contemporary villa.

All photographs are works of  Tomaz Gregoric, OFIS Architects