Beyond Tradition - Villa Stoliv

M.Sc.Architect Nikola Novakovi | Enforma Ltd.

photo: Nenad Mandi and Nikola Novakovi

Denying a history is impossible; to blindly obey it is unproductive and artistically unacceptable. However, investment is
a lot more important: we neither can disavow the past, nor utilize it lightly. Both tradition and the future are conquered
by creative efforts, profound studies of architectural language spirit, and practice.

Professor Ranko Radovi

Considering building an object beyond traditional methods in an exceptional surrounding like Boka Kotorska represents an extraordinary challenge, like growing up in an environment of different ethnicities that are reluctant
to accept different. Similar to those environments that are likely to celebrate differences among people, it is
necessary to consider structures that maintain the present according to social, economic and technological developments without jeopardizing the local atmosphere.

Beyond Tradition - Villa Stoliv

photo: Nenad Mandi

Villa Stoliv is located on the Bay of Kotor, in the very inaccessible fishing village of Stoliv, 8 km from Kotor and
opposite the ancient town of Perast. Impressive vistas spread from this site towards the gulf, islands and Upper
Stoliv, which had a crucial influence on shaping the form.
A studious approach to the assignment and an attentive attitude towards different aspects and needs, both of the
surrounding and modern society, resulted in the desired effect, reflecting both modern and refined expression.
The architecture presented is a result of the analysis of the location, general atmosphere, and investors demands
to create an original building with an emphasis on the above-mentioned viewpoints.
The inspiration for the project came from the very Mediterranean climate, the sea, and directly from the
surroundings, reflecting the shape of the shell, which rises towards the previously mentioned sites, and creates
unique sculptural expressions of both the exterior and the interior. A unique approach to the design is characterized
by radial walls covered with stone, forming three main tracts, which are functional and structural parts of the
building with large glass surfaces that allow the outside in, weaving the exteriors and interiors in a subtle way.
Positioning the structure with a total area of 424.5 square meters onto a rough, inaccessible plot of around 1200
square meters presented quite a challenge; on the other hand, it was an interesting aspect that contributed to
the ambience.

Beyond Tradition - Villa Stoliv

The Villa has three floors: a basement, ground level,
and first floor above it. The basement level provides
garage space for two parking lots, a pantry, laundry
room, gym, wine cellar, and mechanical rooms for the
house as well as for the outdoor pool. Very attractive
and interesting detail throughout all floor plans are
the staircases, which are positioned at the end of the
middle tract, following the lines of the radial walls and
creating the dynamics of the entire interior. One can
enter the living area from the main entrances foyer on
the ground floor, which, together with the kitchen and
dining area, form a unique, fluid space, directly linked
to the wide open terrace and pool terrace, covered
with wood cladding. There is a direct connection to
a spa area with sauna, toilet, closet, and outdoor
shower The ground level also has an independent
guest apartment with its own entrance, and access to
the yard and pool. The upstairs is defined as a sleep
and rest area, consisting of three bedrooms and
a study room. All rooms are connected with a wide
balcony.
Enforma Ltd. (Nikola Novakovi) - from ArchiCAD file

Enforma Ltd. (Nikola Novakovi) - from ArchiCAD file

Beyond Tradition - Villa Stoliv

A very important aspect throughout the design of
the villa was following the principles of sustainability,
which is an organic approach at Enforma. This is
evident in the use of local materials (stone and gravel),
and the re-use of excavated ground materials, which
reduced transportation costs. Since Stoliv has no local
sewage system, the installation of a bio septic tank was
necessary, which processes waste water and creates
99% pure water that flows to a separate tank and is
later used for irrigation. Inside the building, the latest
energy-efficient and cost-saving technology has been
installed.
Concerning the issue of sustainability specifically,
and the entire design process from the initial concept
to determining schedules and costs, GRAPHISOFTs
ArchiCAD provided us with valuable data and graphics.
ArchiCAD was extremely helpful, particularly with
shaping the terrain and complex rounded forms,
making any task simpler and more enjoyable.
Enforma Ltd. (Nikola Novakovi) - from ArchiCAD file

photo: Nikola Novakovi

The overall approach to this project, as well as the final result, are what is recognized by CEMEX groups expert
jury and why it was chosen as the best built project in Montenegro in 2012. At an international competition in
Mexico, Villa Stoliv won third prize in the Sustainable Building category. This award is a significant recognition
for Studio Enforma and contemporary Montenegrian architecture, as well.

Beyond Tradition - Villa Stoliv

The Company - Enforma Ltd.

www.enforma.me
Enforma was founded in August, 2006 in Kotor, by Montenegran architect Nikola Novakovic. The team is made
up of talented and ambitious engineers with domestic and international experience. Since its foundation, the firm
has gained a great number of business partners and has dealt with a large circle of investors. The firm has earned
the trust of its clients with their dedication and the willingness to meet high expectations.
hiCAD, the local ArchiCAD representative, recognized this project as an outstanding realization of virtual skills
and imagination. Villa Stoliv is, therefore, living evidence of a perfect marriage of old and new, traditional and
modern, virtual and substantial.

Project: Villa Stoliv

Location: Stoliv, Kotor, Montenegro
Author: M.Sc.Architect Nikola Novakovi
Collaborator: M.Sc.Architect Marijela Paji
Architecture Firm: Enforma Ltd.
Project area: 424.5 sqm
Project Year: 2010
Year of completion: 2012

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