Corte Interna | Adaptive Complex Reuse in Chania

Scenography approach

This project involves the restoration of a complex of three stone-built structures in Kalyviani, Chania, repurposed to accommodate five bedrooms and spacious communal areas. The building volumes are arranged around an interior courtyard, where water serves as a central feature. Drawing inspiration from the Venetian imprint on traditional Cretan architecture, the design follows a scenographic approach that evokes new emotional experiences through spatial storytelling.

Restoration Philosophy

The first two-story building, located along the village’s main road, underwent significant interventions. A key modification was the creation of an interior opening to visually and functionally connect the bedroom to the ground floor. This transition is framed by a distinctive metal threshold. A spiral staircase made of perforated metal sheeting provides vertical circulation, adding a sculptural quality to the space. The building envelope was structurally reinforced with cement injections. On the exterior, the old plaster was replaced with a natural lime-based mortar, which selectively reveals portions of the original stonework. In contrast, the interior stone masonry was left fully exposed. The juxtaposition of polished cement flooring with the rough-hewn stone walls creates a powerful visual dialogue.

Aesthetic Interventions

In the second building, situated at pool level, striking visual contrasts are introduced—between exposed stone and smooth plaster, and between solid walls and open voids. A reinforced concrete beam runs across the stonework, unifying the structure while showcasing the process of structural reinforcement as an intentional design element. The calm, muted tones of the plaster complement the natural elegance of travertine flooring, which seamlessly extends from the interior to the courtyard, wrapping around the pool and continuing into the kitchen of the two-story structure. Access to the third building, positioned on a higher level, is provided via an external metal staircase, reinforcing the dialogue between old and new materials.

Materials & Furniture

Inside, an old fireplace is repurposed as a skylight in the new bedroom, preserving heritage while introducing functionality. Natural cotto tiles are used for the flooring, extending into the courtyard to create a sense of continuity. A metal pergola with reed covering shades the elevated courtyard, forming a relaxed social gathering space. The overall composition is enhanced by the choice of organically shaped furniture and lighting fixtures, which soften and contrast with the robust geometry of the existing structure. Materials such as metal, wood, fabric, ribbed glass, and plaster interact harmoniously with the architectural surfaces, articulating the contemporary additions while honoring the historical character and natural patina of the building.