When I took on this project, I didn't have a clear direction of how this work would take shape. I started the restoration work gradually, slowly discovering the story of the house. Every house has a unique story, and the role of the designer is to discover it and to highlight it.
This house has a deep connection with nature, both through its location and through the history of its owners. It is an integral part of the park, belongs to the park and identifies with it. During the process, we realized that this relationship with the park must be the focus of the design.
When evening falls in the park and the lights remain off, the shadows of the evening envelop you and you feel like you are part of the park. This was the answer – the story found in the tone chosen for the house. A pleasant warm gray tone with a slight shade of green.
From the park we reach the house, we step into the house dressed in leaves, and the interior continues in chromatic language the story of this intimate relationship with the park. The design reflects the harmony between past and present, between tradition and modernity. The house hosts cultural events and the headquarters of an apiphytotherapy center, thus becoming a space that connects the community with nature and history.
Area of site | 130 m2 |
Date | 2017 |
Status of the project | Under construction |
Tools used | SketchUp |
A short story of a house that has fascinated everyone who lives or has passed through Timișoara
Nestled in the heart of Timișoara, surrounded by the serene expanse of a lush park, the Ivy House stands as a singular architectural gem. A historical monument, it has long captivated the imagination with its blend of natural beauty and urban history. Its recent restoration has breathed new life into its walls, creating a space where the past and present intertwine harmoniously.
The restoration process was as much an act of reverence as it was a bold reinterpretation. The goal was clear: to preserve the character of the house while making it relevant to contemporary needs. The design draws heavily on the natural setting of the park, embracing a minimalist ethos that amplifies the house's unique connection to its surroundings. The interiors feature dark grey-greenish walls, carefully chosen to mirror the shades of ivy and the earthy tones of the park. This palette creates a seamless flow between the exterior and interior, making the house feel like a natural extension of the landscape.
The natural textures and materials used throughout the space further reinforce this connection. Subtle wood accents, soft lighting, and large windows invite the outdoors in, crafting an atmosphere that is both grounding and inspiring.
The Ivy House now serves as more than just a restored monument; it is a cultural hub, a beacon for the community. Its rebirth is marked by a new purpose: to bring people together. As the showroom of Apiarium, it showcases the artistry and benefits of apifitotherapy, bridging ancient wisdom with modern well-being. The space hosts workshops, exhibitions, and events, all rooted in the ethos of sustainability, creativity, and community spirit.
Through its thoughtful design and intentional purpose, the Ivy House stands not only as a testament to Timișoara’s heritage but also as a symbol of renewal—a place where history meets modernity and nature shapes the narrative.