Villa Duomo

Modern Minimalism among the Red-Tiled Rooftops

This newly-built home on the Dalmatian island of Brač was designed by award-winning Croatian architect Toni Trutanic, who wanted to combine the region's traditional rustic charm with urban industrial style. It's a study in minimalism that was clearly influenced by the work of iconic architect Le Corbusier, whose prints are among the few adornments on the walls. The terrace with its elegant swimming pool, overlooking the red-tiled rooftops of Selca, is reminiscent of La Cité Radieuse in Marseilles, albeit in miniature.

This is a remarkably simple space, with a Brutalist concrete shell and little embellishment. Furnishings are utilitarian in concrete, wood and metal, with simple, clean lines. The metal spiral staircase that leads from the ground to the first floor, and emerges through a circular hole, serves as a central sculpture. 

Then there are the unexpected details, which give a respectful nod to the region's heritage: the 300-year-old stone architectural pieces taken from a hotel in Sleca that burned down during the Second World War, the entrance yard with Brač stone floor details, and the lines of Gothic arched windows on the otherwise plain walls. It's an elegant tribute.

This villa for rent in Croatia is located in a quiet neighborhood of Selca, and sleeps up to six guests. 

There are two bedrooms on the ground floor that sleep two guests each. The living room is on the first floor and has a sofa bed that sleeps an additional two guests. The kitchen is well-equipped, and there is a terrace with private pool, dining table, deck chairs and views of the rooftops and sea. This is a great villa for rent in Croatia for design lovers.

AROUND

The island of Brac and the surrounding riviera along the Dalmatian coast packs a lot of diversity into a small area with a unique combination of sea, rivers and mountains, as well as a rich history and cultural heritage. The island's main town of Supetar with its u-shaped beach is the ferry access point to and from Split and the mainland with the neighboring islands of Hvar and Korcula making good day trips.

Most of the island's stone architecture was built from the limestone quarries of Pučišća including the tiny ancient towns of Bobovisca and Lozisca, which feature magnificent views over the bay of Bobovisca near to the villa. With only a handful of year-round residents, Bobovisca's main industry has been and remains agriculture but comes alive during summer with sailing boats, yachts, restaurants, and cafes.

Enjoy a stroll along Bobovisca's seaside promenade, and stop in to the local cafes for authentic island delicacies. Just in front of villa are two rocky, uninhabited islands, with much of the area best explored on or in the water by kayak, boat, diving or snorkeling to the sheltered coves and beaches. History buffs can also visit old Roman and Byzantine ruins dating back to 500BC, as well as the remains of Illyrian civilization here.

Selca itself is a charming town whose buildings and monuments are made almost entirely from the local white stone. It lies about 1km from the coast and close to the coves of Radonja, Spilice and Žirje.

LOCATION

Selca, Brač Island, Croatia. Nearest airport: Although the island has its own airport, it’s best to fly to Split Airport (30km). There is a car ferry from Split that takes 50 minutes. The total travel time is about 90 minutes.

BEST TIME TO VISIT:  Spring to fall.