105 Cherni Vrah is a residential building designed by IPA - Architecture and more, located at 105 Cherni Vrah Boulevard in southern Sofia. The building combines residential, office and public-facing functions within an architectural structure that responds to its active urban setting, functional requirements and the quality of everyday living.
Its location on one of Sofia's major boulevards provides access to the city center, the Ring Road and key transport connections. Paradise Center and South Park are nearby, while the upper floors offer views of Vitosha Mountain and the city skyline. The project is situated in an area characterized by busy traffic and ongoing infrastructure development, requiring a careful balance between public uses and the privacy of the residential spaces.
The architectural design of 105 Cherni Vrah emphasizes a clear volumetric composition, functional layouts and a consistent material concept. The architectural approach balances the building's prominent presence along the boulevard with the creation of a comfortable residential environment. Extensive glazing, the rhythm of the facade elements and the relationship between interior spaces and the surrounding city are defining characteristics of the project.
The residential component includes 22 apartments with two-, three- and four-bedroom layouts, ranging from 100 to over 300 sq m. Clear ceiling heights start at 2.90 m, contributing to a sense of spaciousness and allowing natural daylight to reach the interiors. The functional layouts provide a clear distinction between living and sleeping areas while offering flexibility to accommodate the individual needs of residents.
The building comprises seven residential floors and has an above-ground gross floor area of 5,543 sq m. The ground floor accommodates a commercial unit and an ophthalmology clinic facing the boulevard, creating an active urban frontage. A dedicated office space on the second floor has its own entrance and elevator. The residential, commercial and office functions are integrated into a coherent architectural structure while remaining functionally distinct.
The most distinctive architectural feature of 105 Cherni Vrah is its ventilated natural limestone facade. The 3 cm-thick stone panels follow a modular arrangement, while milled elements and recessed window openings introduce depth, texture and a clear rhythm to the elevations. The limestone cladding emphasizes the building's geometry, with architectural lighting highlighting vertical elements and facade details after dark.
The building envelope has been designed with careful consideration for thermal and acoustic comfort. The ventilated facade is combined with mineral wool insulation, while thermally broken aluminum window frames allow for extensive glazed surfaces. Triple-glazed windows complement the thermal and sound insulation strategy while maintaining visual connections between the interiors, the city and Vitosha Mountain.
The two underground levels have a combined area of approximately 3,160 sq m and provide 87 parking spaces and 35 bicycle spaces. Their layout incorporates maneuvering areas, clear circulation routes and controlled vehicle access. The underground parking is integrated into the overall functional organization of the building, allowing the above-ground levels to accommodate the primary residential and public-facing functions.
The building's engineering systems support the architectural design and the comfort of everyday living. Heating, cooling and individual temperature controls are adapted to the functions of the different spaces. Outdoor air-conditioning units are positioned in designated locations to preserve the architectural appearance of the facades. Video intercom systems and controlled access solutions further support the building's functionality and security.
The shared interior areas extend the architectural material concept through the use of natural stone, wood and extensive glazing. The entrance lobby includes a reception desk, a waiting area and controlled access, providing a clear and welcoming transition between the public city environment and the private residential spaces. 105 Cherni Vrah demonstrates how material choices, functional organization and architectural detailing can create a coherent identity for a contemporary mixed-use residential building.
