August 14, 2017

The Black Box House by Pao Architects

Located in Vilnius, Lithuania, The Black Box House is a modern private residence designed in 2017 by Pao Architects.

Spacious modern interior with expansive wooden deck and scenic outdoor views.

Spacious modern living area with minimalist furniture, wood accents, and an eye-catching geometric wall feature.

Minimalist living room with modular sofa, wooden accent wall, and sleek fireplace.

Sleek modern kitchen with black island, wood cabinets, and pendant lighting fixtures.

Minimalist bedroom with floor-to-ceiling window, patterned headboard, and wood nightstand.

Large window with panoramic view of lush, forested landscape and wooden deck. Minimalist interior design.

The Black Box House by Pao Architects - 7

Modern, single-story home with dark wooden siding, large overhanging roof, and expansive grassy yard.

Modern building with a black wooden facade, surrounded by a grassy lawn and white sculptures.

Exterior of a modern black wooden building with large windows, brick accent wall, and paved walkway.

Modern exterior with dark wooden siding, concrete steps, and landscaped yard.

A long dark wooden building with an asymmetric facade, surrounded by landscaped grounds.

About The Black Box House

Introduction to Black Box Project

PAO Architects took the helm on the Black Box project, crafting a home for a vibrant family of four. Built in Vilnius, Lithuania, this home stands on the Neris River’s slope, boasting stunning views amidst a landscape blending city convenience with natural beauty. The property sits a mere 6.2 miles (10 kilometers) from the bustling city center, offering the best of both worlds.

Design Philosophy and Client Vision

The family sought a modern, minimalist home, prompting a dialogue that shaped the final design. PAO Architects embraced the challenge, proposing a single-story structure that echoes the plot’s orientation and landscape. With the river view to the southwest, the design optimizes natural light and scenic vistas, prioritizing living spaces with outdoor access.

Smart Layout and Functional Elegance

Efficiency defines the house’s layout. The north side houses the entrance, utility spaces, and wardrobes, preserving the south-western aspect for the living room, dining area, kitchen, and bedrooms. This orientation not only captures the river’s beauty but also includes a terrace extending the living space outdoors. The roof’s design further moderates sunlight, ensuring comfort without compromising on the view.

Aesthetic Details and Material Choices

Attention to detail is evident in the facade’s finishing touches, from the concealed garage door to the rooftop green terraces. Black Siberian Spruce planks, chosen for their contrast, wrap the house in an air of Scandinavian minimalism and sophistication. The facade’s ventilated structure not only looks striking but also performs efficiently.

Interior Design: Light and Space

Inside, the Scandinavian minimalist theme continues, with a focus on clarity and brightness. The choice reflects the client’s desire for a space that feels open and airy, enhancing the home’s connection to its surroundings.

This project stands as a testament to PAO Architects’ ability to merge client wishes with innovative design, resulting in a home that is both functional and visually striking.

Photography by Leonas Garbačiauskas

Visit Pao Architects

- by Matt Watts