The creative mind behind some of KAGER’s most iconic homes is architect Irina Karlikova. With a refined sense for space, wood, and light, she has helped shape projects that fully explore the architectural potential of the Vita Nova system.
Having worked with KAGER for many years, Irina deeply understands the concept of the visible wooden skeleton and large glass surfaces—an approach that enables architectural freedom and spatial openness. She is currently designing two new timber villas—one in Slovenia, the other in Germany.
Below, we present three of her most noteworthy projects.
Lake Glass House
The Lake Glass House was thoughtfully embedded into a lush green environment. The wooden structure does not dominate the landscape but rather complements it, blending modern architecture with natural materials. Handcrafted wood plays a central role in the home’s interior.
With precise execution and aesthetic refinement, the visible timber frame becomes the defining interior feature, bringing warmth, character, and architectural elegance to the space.
In 2024, this home was awarded the prestigious prize for Best Residential Interior at the Ukrainian Building Awards.
A Glass wood house by the lake
Among Irina’s award-winning works is a glass wood house set on a lakeside property, for which she received the Best Architectural Design of a Private House award in 2021. Fully glazed façades and a carefully balanced minimalist concept convinced the jury, who praised the blend of form and function.
Inspired by traditional Bavarian log homes, the villa is surrounded by a spruce forest. Due to the sloping terrain, a basement level was incorporated into the design, allowing the building to adapt to the site without disrupting the natural surroundings.
One of the most technically challenging parts of the project was the staircase. Several versions were explored before arriving at the final design, which balances structural clarity with visual impact. The finishing elements are fully in tune with the environment: the tones of the timber beams and flooring mirror the colors of nearby bark and trees, while the interior remains calm and restrained—drawing attention to the views through the expansive glazing.
The home features two entrances: one from the basement and one from the main level. The dining area opens upward with a clerestory glass strip that floods the space with daylight and emphasizes a sense of openness.
Forest house
In this forest house, architect Irina Karlikova emphasized transparency and connection to the natural surroundings. Located in a pine forest, the house is designed with fully glazed walls that maintain continuous visual contact with the outdoors.
The interior features marble-look ceramic finishes, carefully designed lighting, and a spacious layout. With 340 m² of floor area, the ground floor includes living spaces and a home office, while the upper level houses two bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms. The glazed walls connect to a gallery area above, reinforcing the home’s airiness and fluidity.
This is architecture where natural materials and thoughtful design come together in a clear, contemporary expression of living.
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