Jaksic Stonemasonry
Workshop and Gallery

1903

Donji Humac 75, 21423 Nerežišća
Island of Brač, Croatia

Lookout “Staronovalja Fishermen’s Posts” – a project by architect Marija Mia Peranić and Dr. Art. Dina Jakšić Pavasović

- on a hill above Stara Novalja, offering a spectacular view towards Punta Luna, the island of Rab and the Velebit Channel, a carefully designed space has taken shape – a lookout that interprets the fishing heritage through a contemporary stone language. This public space design project was realised in collaboration with architect Marija Mia Peranić and Dr. Art. Dina Jakšić Pavasović. At the centre of the lookout stands a stone wind rose, engraved with the names of the traditional Staronovalja fishermen’s posts. Alongside the names, the directions of the posts are also carved into the stone – these same directions determine the position and length of each stone bench surrounding the central point. In this way, all the elements on the site are interconnected and functionally unified in honour of the fishing heritage of the island of Pag and Stara Novalja. The benches, made of white Brač stone, feature an unusual and technically demanding form – they are sculptural and unique, shaped to evoke the sea surface. Their organic and fluid lines clearly contrast the usual rigid forms found in public benches. Specially carved recesses form natural seating contours, making each bench not only visually striking but also exceptionally comfortable. The entire shaping process required a high degree of precision and sensitivity, with each bench directed and composed according to the carved post lines, creating a rhythmical setting for rest and observation. The project was financed through the 6th FLAG Call for Measure 2.A.1 for the development of tourism-related content based on fishing traditions, implemented by LAGUR Tramuntana, co-funded by the EU and the Republic of Croatia. This spatial design successfully connects aesthetics, functionality and educational value. We are proud to have collaborated with architect Mia, the Stara Novalja Tourist Board and LAGUR Tramuntana on its realisation.