Studio 502 was commissioned to reimagine Villa Tončić, a protected 1920s Secessionist villa in Split, as a contemporary dining destination. Bound by preservation rules, the studio retained the villa’s historic fabric, introducing subtle interventions to enhance the atmosphere and improve the flow. Subtle interventions defined the villa's character without disruption. Outdoor furniture found on-site was restored and reintegrated. Working within a modest budget, the team focused on high-impact gestures. The result is an inviting, layered space that honours the building’s legacy while meeting the needs of a modern, all-day restaurant, welcoming guests year-round and restoring its civic and cultural relevance.