Best Of 2024

The residence adheres to the conventional typology of its era, organized along three main axes. At the entrance lies the first room, followed by a central space, known as the “solar,” which faces south and is considered an external area. To the left, a two-room hall is divided at its center by a distinctive arch, while to the right of the solar is another room of similar dimensions. A defining feature of this typology is the seamless progression of spaces, allowing movement within the dwelling without corridors. Additionally, the absence of predefined functions allows each room to accommodate a variety of activities.

The process of composition was inspired by a spatial archetype: the form of the shelter, intrinsically linked to the concept of “dwelling,” has historically shaped human spatial preferences, reflecting our inherent predispositions. The residence in Dionysus offers, through contemporary architectural language, a symbolic and spatial reinterpretation of this archetype -an effort that seeks to evoke memory and, ultimately, a return to the authentic, the primal, and the enduring.

The façade features three semi-open spaces that define the character of the exterior. One, with a flat, modern roof, extends toward the pool. The second, vaulted, reflects the local architectural style and marks the main entrance. The third, an experimental feature of contemporary design, introduces a unique architectural element: a sharp-angled dome, known as the “double-cube” in Santorini, intersects vertically with a semi-circular dome, creating a novel form.

The design aims to repurpose the existing structural frame to create a low-rise residence with a garden in a dense urban setting. During construction, the load-bearing structure and foundations are preserved, while the central portion of the slab is removed to create a double-height space. An additional floor is added to the building, supported by a reinforced metal frame and anti-flexural connectors, designed to withstand the high seismic activity in the area.

The design of the new shell focuses on both the aesthetic and functional enhancement of the existing building. The triangular projections on the front façade are driven by the desire to provide the best possible views of the harbor and the sea from the rooms. The spatial organization of the former Metaxas distillery guided the design of the ground floor, which accommodates the reception area, restaurant, and essential auxiliary spaces for the hotel’s operation. Visitor circulation in the public areas is defined by a series of passages beneath intricately designed wooden arches, which both separate the different functions and unify the space aesthetically.

The building’s form embodies a fusion of the harmony of ancient Greek classicism and the strength of Byzantine ecclesiastical architecture. The simplicity of the volumes, inspired by Cycladic tradition, coupled with the use of local materials and forms, ensures that the resort blends seamlessly into both its natural and built surroundings.

The floor plan is divided into two horizontally aligned zones -one roofed and one open-air- arranged on levels with a slight height difference. Access to the outdoor zone is provided either through the main entrance, with an outdoor walkway on the right, or from within the restaurant. This distinctive courtyard features a metal shell designed as an L-shaped grid, which, along with the planting, forms a “frame” around the stone bar that dominates the rear of the space. Dark-toned dining chairs and a lit tree enhance the atmospheric setting created by the interplay of metal and stone elements.

The space is experienced as a journey, where visitors encounter plantings, rocks, and shifting perspectives through a series of multi-sensory experiences. A bridge at the intermediate level appears to float between two curved metal surfaces, on which the exhibits are suspended, enhancing the immersive experience.

Cyprus’ first purpose-built observatory will be open to the public and serve as a center for scientific research. Located in a remote rural area, the project aimed to create an architectural landmark that would positively impact the surrounding landscape while becoming a world-class destination to inspire future generations of explorers. The design was crafted to possess a distinctive identity that draws attention from afar, making the human experience of the space both captivating and meaningful. The site’s subtle ridge and significant elevation changes, played a key role in shaping the design, resulting in an elegant and responsive form. The building’s volume was split into two parts, with an opening that frames a view of the valley, the sea, and the horizon. A porch was situated between the two volumes, while the second volume was diagonally “cut,” creating an opening that frames a view of the neighboring village of Agridia.