The twin villas "levitate" amid the towering pines and birches of a secluded park in the Ural region of Russia. Their presence is felt, but subtle.

Ivanka Concrete panels, perforated metal and reflective glass combine in façades, which continue the patterns of the surrounding landscape. Beneath the exterior is a sturdy reinforced concrete frame.

Since the homes sit in a publicly accessible location, people walk freely in the area. Not only do the façade features perform well visually, but also give privacy to residents, so that they can see the landscape, but passers-by can’t see inside. The overhangs and screens also protect from the glare of the sun.

An enclosed courtyard at the heart of the villa affords residents their very own, private outdoor space, as well as floods the home in natural light. A gallery surrounds the courtyard. Living quarters are dispersed around it. The lines between the home’s interior and external landscape are blurred. Tucked below ground are a private spa, garage and technical rooms.

Team: Zane Tetere – Sulce, Girts Kula, Kristaps Sulcs, Helmuts Nezborts, Jelena Ozolina-Jelisejeva, Dins Vecans, Zane Legzdina


