Platinum Winner of the International Architecture & Design Awards 2026

The Venetian Villa

Architecture

Renovation, Restoration & Adaptive Reuse

Concept / Professional Category

Architect / Designer:

Dina Dridze

Studio:

RTDA

Design Team:

Dina Dridze, Ivan Astafurov, Ekaterina Vlasenko, Irina Cherkesova, Irina Yamashkina, Andrey Borovoy, Daria Nemushkina

Copyright:

RTDA

The Venetian Villa project will become not just a point on the tourist map, but a living organism where the past and present engage in a continuous dialogue. It is a space where every element — from restored facades to modern functional areas — works towards one goal: to create an environment that inspires discovery, relaxation, and a deep connection with the place.

The main goal of the project was to activate the area through a meaningful combination of its historical heritage and modern functions, not to create just a restored site, but a multifunctional cluster capable of attracting both tourists and locals, unlocking the region’s potential through agritourism, cultural initiatives, and chamber recreation in the historical setting.

The core of the concept was the careful restoration of the villa’s architectural appearance with a complete rethinking of its internal logic. Instead of a static, museum-like shape, flexible spaces are proposed.

The space we have created functions continuously, adapting to seasonal changes and the needs of different guests: comfortable rooms to explore the region and authentic local cuisine with a modern interpretation of traditional recipes; cultural programme including pottery and floristry master classes; regular farmers’ markets and themed festivals to create a living connection between the area and the local community; events arrangement – from small private celebrations to large-scale public gatherings. Flexible infrastructure enables spaces transformation for specific purposes while maintaining the unique atmosphere of the place.

This comprehensive approach ensures the sustainability of the project throughout the year.

Quiet relaxation in the park or at the new piazza is a reimagined public core of the area. The key principle is the delicate integration of modern functionality into the historical fabric, where each new element enhances rather than interrupts the authenticity of the place.

We have carefully planned the area preserving existing greenery and opening up new views on the historical buildings.

Identified and emphasized natural sightlines were developed into a system of park alleys and pathways. Cozy shaded pavilions and tea houses — allow escape the sun and enjoy the park’s scenery. We created a harmonious space where visitors can rediscover the beauty of this place, combining active exploration with peaceful relaxation.

A harmonious mix of historical authenticity and contemporary usage ensures that the Venetian Villa will develop while remaining true to its identity. The area transforms into a cultural cluster capable of becoming a driving force for the development of the entire region.

RTDA

RTDA Architects is an architectural practice founded in 2004.
The company name – RTDA – accurately covers all features of the company’s activity: Research. Territory development. Architecture. We are experts in urban planning and architecture and provide a wide range of services, whether it be urban planning research, master planning, architectural design, space planning, interior design or a comprehensive development concept for a specific area. Our project solutions are aimed at meeting the needs of different groups of the population while considering the peculiarities of the national, areal and climatic nature.
Our mission is to create friendly living and working conditions by creating a favorable environment for people and society.