Black House On Nevezis River Slope

House On The Slope

Award-Winning Black House on the Eastern Slope of the Nevėžis River

Project Recognition
Winner of the architecture and design competition Tendencijos 2019 for the best HOUSE project of 2019. Read more here.

Site and Context

The Black House is located on the eastern slope of the Nevėžis River, surrounded by a peaceful forest. The plot has an unconventional shape and is limited by mature trees, the slope, and the neighboring house’s volume. Because of these constraints, the architects designed the building with a dynamic, diagonal form. Furthermore, the house incorporates natural features such as a pond, footbridge, and lush greenery. This approach emphasizes harmony with the environment, naturalness, and tranquility.

Design and Layout

The narrow plot naturally split the house into two main parts: living and resting areas. Initially, the form begins at the garage entrance as a single element. However, it then divides into two volumes that frame a private terrace courtyard in the center. The building is single-floor, reflecting the hosts’ straightforward needs.

When entering the property, you either pass through a narrow corridor or the double garage, arriving in a central hall. From here, a direct path leads to the work area, which overlooks the courtyard. To the right is a well-equipped kitchen with a salon and a half-bar. Behind the kitchen island, there is a separate dining table. Additionally, the seating area includes a glass showcase with views of the courtyard pond.

A long corridor extends from the hall to the private lounge, master bedroom, bathroom, and guest room. All these rooms connect via a bright corridor with large windows framing the greenery outside. Moreover, the entrance area houses a boiler room and a separate sanitary unit, both thoughtfully integrated.

Materials and Exterior

The exterior uses a single expressive material—black wood paneling. This neat vertical deck creates a solid, cohesive appearance. At the same time, the house opens up to panoramic views of the forest and courtyard vegetation. Light wood boards are used to construct terraces, while stone boulders mark a natural transition between the built environment and surrounding nature.

Interior Atmosphere

Inside, the home features light wood floors and white walls, providing a clean and timeless aesthetic. The building’s orientation toward the forest panorama complements this simplicity. Consequently, the interior creates a calm, harmonious atmosphere. The Black House acts as a meditative oasis, offering peace and freedom from the city’s hustle and bustle. Its rational composition, solid facade, and natural elements combine to create a cozy, balanced lifestyle.