The Red House of Oil: A Bold Design Statement Among the Olive Groves of Hvar

Architecture & Culinary

Merging tradition and modernity, SECA’s tasting house redefines the architecture of Hvar's olive oil landscape.

Author

Micha Weinberger

Photography

Tom Clark & SECA

Perched on the rugged southeastern slopes of Hvar (Croatia), SECA is not just an olive grove—it’s a testament to the island’s rich agricultural and architectural heritage. Owned by Eva Marija Čurin, SECA is the culmination of a family legacy, where centuries-old olive trees thrive alongside newly planted terraces. This balance between old and new is perfectly encapsulated in the design of SECA’s tasting house, known as the Red House of Oil. Designed by Adrijan Cingerle and his team at Kreadom, the house stands as a striking red landmark in the middle of the grove, its bold color drawn from the island’s iron-rich soil. A modern interpretation of the traditional shepherd's huts once found throughout Hvar, the house embodies Eva Marija’s vision of preserving the land’s history while embracing contemporary design.

SECA, under Eva Marija's leadership, has gained a reputation for producing some of the finest extra virgin olive oil in the region. The tasting house not only provides a space for guests to sample their award-winning oils but also serves as a physical manifestation of the grove’s deep connection to Hvar’s landscape. Eva Marija's commitment to design and sustainability is evident in every aspect of SECA, from the meticulously planted olive terraces to the carefully crafted architecture.

The Red House of Oil’s design is as much about function as it is about form. Its broken geometry reflects the jagged slopes of Hvar, while creating natural shading for the interior. Inspired by the traditional kažuns—stone shepherd huts—this building reinterprets these ancient structures with a modern, streamlined approach. The result is a structure that is both timeless and contemporary, merging tradition with forward-thinking design.

A striking red hue was chosen, not just for aesthetics but to mirror the soil, rich in iron oxide. This distinctive color grounds the building in its environment, contrasting sharply with the silvery green olive trees. The house is strategically positioned between two areas of the grove: the organically planted, older olive trees to the south and the geometrically arranged newer ones to the north. This balance reinforces the blend of heritage and innovation that defines SECA.

Inside, the house serves as a space for tasting SECA’s premium olive oils. The adaptable design allows for both intimate gatherings and larger group tastings. Long communal tables made from local materials anchor the space, while an adjacent kitchen offers dishes designed to complement the oils, enriching the overall tasting experience.

At SECA, the Red House of Oil is more than just a tasting room; it symbolizes Eva Marija's dedication to her family’s olive-growing legacy and her commitment to sustainability and design. The structure honors Hvar’s natural and cultural history while presenting a modern architectural identity. The Red House of Oil, like SECA’s olive oils, strikes a balance between tradition and innovation, offering visitors a unique space to experience the beauty of the land and its exceptional craftsmanship.