Amalen Suites Adults Only in Rethymno

Mystagogic Atmosphere

The hotel is housed in an existing 19th-century stone structure in the heart of Rethymno’s old town and consists of five suites offering all contemporary comforts.

 

Design Philosophy

The design aims to immerse visitors in elements of Cretan culture, offering an atmosphere where the evocative character of the past coexists with contemporary sensibilities. During the adaptive reuse of the original shell, the stone masonry was highlighted and preserved, with targeted structural reinforcements where necessary. To maintain the authenticity of the original character, all mechanical and electrical systems were concealed within the walls and floors.

A new stone structure was created on the adjacent plot, centered around the presence of water, forming the hotel’s shared pool and introducing a sense of oasis within the dense fabric of the old town. The two stone volumes are connected by a staircase made of exposed concrete.

 

 

Material Palette

The material choices emphasize the identity of the project and include stone, wood, clay, and iron with a weathered finish. Custom elements were crafted, while existing components found within the building were reused. The floors are made of elongated clay tiles, and the gutters are formed from joined clay pipe segments reminiscent of traditional Cretan water channels.

 

 

Custom Elements

Metal features such as frames, railings, and planters are made of treated iron with a rusted appearance. The glass surfaces were specially crafted to evoke an aged character, while the doors and furniture incorporate reclaimed wooden elements discovered in the building. The structural wooden components are made of unprocessed chestnut. Finally, the room locks are restored Ottoman-era pieces found in the old town of Rethymno.