Project: Black Rock Residence
Architecture: ArchObraz
Lead Architects: Oleksii Obraztsov, Antonina Obraztsova, Svetlana Ivancha
Project Location: Dnipro, Ukraine
Completion Year: 2020
Gross Built Area (m2/ ft2): 300 m2
Photo Credits: Andrey Avdeenko
Interior brands: Cesar, Mirage, Duravit, Grohe, Novellini, Steinberg, Jaga
Located in a cottage village outside the city and surrounded by modern manor buildings, the Black Rock Residence by ArchObraz stands out for its unique relationship with the natural landscape. The design of this home draws inspiration from the rock formations near the Dnipro River, creating a seamless integration between the built structure and the environment. The house’s form is crafted in such a way that there is no clear distinction between the walls and roof, making the building feel like an organic extension of the rocky terrain.
Design Concept: Merging Architecture with Nature
The layout of Black Rock Residence follows a longitudinal direction, designed to suit the family’s specific living patterns. The home’s two primary facades are oriented toward the east and west, ensuring the interior enjoys comfortable sunlight throughout the day. Large roof overhangs provide protection from overheating, making the house efficient and pleasant during the warmer months.
The central, highest part of the house features a communal living space that opens to views of a beautifully designed garden. This design choice helps merge the interior with the exterior, allowing natural elements to play a major role in daily life. The roofline gently lowers as it extends to other parts of the house, which include the children’s rooms, master bedroom, sauna, utility rooms, and a garage. The descending roof shape mimics the natural rock formations in the area, reinforcing the home’s connection to its surroundings.
A Separate Boulder: The Summer Guest House
A unique feature of Black Rock Residence is the summer guest house, which sits on the opposite side of the site. Designed to look like a boulder that has detached from the main “rock” of the house, this guest house offers a quiet retreat for visitors, further enhancing the idea of natural elements inspiring the architectural form.
Conclusion: A Modern Home Rooted in Nature
The Black Rock Residence by ArchObraz is a masterful example of how architecture can blend with the natural environment. Its design, inspired by the rocks near the Dnipro River, creates a living space that feels both modern and deeply connected to nature. By shaping the house in response to the landscape and natural light, ArchObraz has crafted a home that stands out for its harmonious relationship with its surroundings.
