Renewed perspective

The project of Dexamenes matures gracefully over time, much like wine – a narrative defined by continuity, a gentle projection into the future, and a constant state of entropy. Quiet reinvention has become intrinsic to its character: the hotel evolves through modest gestures, extending itself layer by layer, season by season. Since its inception, it has consistently reactivated its existing components. The twin silos now pulse with wellness, art, and recurring culinary events, each iteration fostering an ongoing dialogue with the past.

 

Extension Strategy

In parallel, the building has sought its own modes of evolution, delicately emerging from its robust concrete base. A few years after its completion, as cultural and culinary programs continued to flourish, it became evident that the site could accommodate a new chapter in hospitality – an additional layer that would honor the original ethos while offering a renewed perspective. During the early stages of construction, when the interiors of the tanks remained inaccessible, time spent on their rooftops revealed a unique sensation of elevation. From this vantage point, the sky met the sea in a continuous, uninterrupted line. It was this immediate connection to the horizon that ultimately informed the addition of a new layer atop the concrete tanks.

 

 

Functional Organization

Eight new rooms now occupy this elevated structure. A lightweight framework of slender metal tubes and warm wooden planks hovers above the solid tanks, tracing the building’s geometry without imposing upon it. These refined elements dematerialize the presence of the new level, allowing a thin canopy to appear as though it floats effortlessly above the concrete volume. A linear water feature frames the horizon, visually merging the architecture with the sea. Sunlight reflecting off the wooden pergola animates the surfaces, reinforcing the nautical, raft-like character of the intervention. The new rooms extend the palette, aesthetic, and spatial logic of the existing accommodations. Each one opens toward the sea through a generous veranda, shaded beneath the pergola, while access from the rear courtyard integrates the upper level into the daily life of the hotel below.

 

 

Design Philosophy

From this elevated vantage point, guests engage with the silos, the cultivated vines of the garden, and the rhythm of activity below, now perceived from a distinctly different perspective. The addition does more than expand the hotel’s capacity; it encapsulates, activates, and extends the evolving narrative of Dexamenes. The rooftop of the rear tank remains intentionally open-ended, reserved as a space for experimentation and discovery. From here, the horizon stretches infinitely, uncharted and anticipatory, awaiting the next chapter in the life of the hotel.

 

Core of everyday life

In the heart of the settlement of Pollonia in Milos, a polygonal plot is transformed into a complex spatial organism, where the notion of the courtyard is reinterpreted as the core of everyday life. The proposal reconstructs the atmosphere of the Cycladic village through a contemporary architectural language, creating an environment that balances between privacy and collectivity.

 

Design Philosophy

The plan unfolds along the perimeter of the plot, with independent rooms arranged as volumes tracing its boundary. Within, a network of courtyards and pathways is formed, composing a sequence of open and semi-open spaces. The visitor is invited to navigate this system, discovering hidden corners and inner gardens, and choosing between moments of seclusion or social interaction.

The architectural experience is structured as a succession of spatial transitions, where movement becomes a key tool for understanding the project. The routes are non-linear, gradually revealing the whole and reinforcing the sense of a village at a micro scale.

 

 

Materiality & Architectural Language

The volumes develop across two levels, forming a clear dual material expression. A grounded base of exposed stone anchors the composition, while the white upper level appears to hover lightly above it, separated by a subtle shadow gap. This contrast enhances the plasticity of the composition and articulates the relationship between heaviness and lightness.

The architectural language of projections, corners, and openings generates a dynamic interplay of light and shadow, constantly shifting throughout the day. Light operates as an active design element, revealing material textures and intensifying spatial perception.

Finally, a third layer of materiality is introduced through metal elements. Pergolas and vertical corten features define the boundaries of the gardens, filter light, and create intermediate zones of privacy.

 

 

Spatial Organization

The six suites, featuring double-height interiors, are conceived as minimal and luminous spaces of accommodation. The architecture avoids unnecessary decoration, allowing the contrasts between materials and light to shape the atmosphere.

The courtyard, as a fundamental element of Cycladic typology, re-emerges as a place of gathering and social interaction. Sheltered from the wind, it functions as an inner garden where guests form a temporary community. Through this gesture, the architecture establishes the conditions for shared experiences, conversation, and exchange.

The project constitutes a contemporary interpretation of the traditional settlement, where respect for place is combined with the creation of new modes of inhabitation. It is an environment that balances individuality and collectivity, offering a refuge of simplicity and authenticity within the landscape of Milos.

 

Relief continuation

The hotel is located at the edge of the traditional settlement of Oia, at the top of the volcanic cliffs of the Caldera. The site has a steep slope, a south-western orientation and unobstructed views toward the sea and the volcano.

 

Restoration Strategy

Within the plot there were ruined cave structures previously used as storage spaces, stables and cellars, as well as an old cubic house located at the northeastern corner. The objective of the project was the reconstruction of the pre-existing buildings and the addition of new cave rooms and communal areas, forming a hotel complex.

As a result, the hotel includes a small reception area, sixteen rooms, a restaurant, a shared swimming pool and a gym-spa. These functions are arranged gradually across the six levels of the complex. The entrance, accessed from the main pedestrian path of the settlement, is located at the upper level together with the reception and an outdoor seating area.

 

 

Spatial Organization

A central outdoor staircase leads from the upper level to the restaurant and the pool, connecting the three intermediate levels that accommodate the guest rooms with their private courtyards and pools. The lowest level includes the spa reception, a small gym, massage rooms, hammam, sauna, sanitary facilities and storage areas, as well as a sheltered relaxation courtyard at the edge of the cliff.

The proposal aimed both at the faithful restoration of the pre-existing buildings and the construction of new cave structures in the spirit of a contemporary and subtle reinterpretation of the cubic morphology of the old settlement, while maintaining a continuous relationship with the natural topography of the Caldera. The form of the new cave spaces preserves the structure of the traditional ones, along with their geometric shapes, materiality and white color.

The typologies of the floor plans, as well as the openings, are oriented so as to frame the view toward the sea. As a result, the façades follow the natural contour lines as broken geometries, resembling folded retaining walls that integrate gently into the landscape. The layering of these compositional strategies ultimately defines the final form of the building and its strong spatial dynamism. The descending movement of the central outdoor staircase, from the hotel entrance to the lowest level, resembles a “crack” in the “body” of the building, guiding movement and directing visitors toward the various private and communal areas.

Materials & Lighting

The interior design follows a strict minimalist approach based on the principles of Cycladic architecture. In the pre-existing cave spaces, a “total white” atmosphere prevails, with subtle touches of iridescent gold and green, while soft curves and freestanding furniture with organic forms highlight and enrich their natural plasticity.

The aesthetic of the new cave rooms is characterized by more intense colors, in the spirit of a “vie en bleu”, with abstract references to the cosmopolitan resorts of the Mediterranean south. These references become more geometric, linking the shapes and volumes of the interior with the forms of the exterior composition.

The lighting of the complex operates in a discreet manner, enhancing the sculptural quality of the white volumes and the experience of movement through the landscape. Along the outdoor pathways and staircases, low-intensity linear luminaires are integrated into the architecture, emphasizing the geometry of the walls and guiding visitors during nighttime circulation. The illuminated pools act as diffused luminous surfaces within the composition, creating soft reflections across the cave volumes. Inside the rooms, lighting remains subtle and integrated into the curved surfaces, highlighting the minimalist aesthetic and the sculptural qualities of Cycladic architecture.

 

Flow and Tranquility

On Hudayriyat Island in Abu Dhabi, between the desert and the sea, the Ilios Beach Club and the Nalu Surf Club redefine the experience of surf culture and hospitality. The two luxury venues are located at the heart of Surf Abu Dhabi, the largest and most advanced artificial wave facility in the world.

 

Design Philosophy

The conceptual starting point was the dynamic moment when the surfer meets the wave – immersion, resistance, flow and the eventual return to calm. This sequence of intensity and release is translated into an architectural narrative, where rhythm, pause and movement organize the transition between the two venues and guide the visitor’s spatial experience.

 

 

Spatial Organization

Ilios Beach Club expresses the harmony and elegance of surf culture. The ground floor opens visually towards the surrounding landscape, while the first-floor lounge functions as a point of pause, offering panoramic views of the setting. Throughout the day, lighting and atmosphere gradually shift, creating a transition from daylight conditions to a more theatrical nighttime environment.

In contrast, the Nalu Surf Club embodies the vibrant and unpretentious energy of the surf lifestyle. Warm tones and textures reminiscent of sand, salt and weathered wood create a more grounded atmosphere. The ground floor remains active throughout the day, while the first-floor VIP lounge provides a more private and inward-looking experience.

At the center of the complex lies the striking wave pool, measuring 65m in length and 14m in width, which defines the scale, rhythm and intensity of the architectural composition. The curves of the waves are translated into undulating ceilings, fluid lines, multiple levels and axial pathways that shape movement throughout the complex.

 

 

Materials & Lighting

The material palette reinforces this sense of flow and continuity. Travertine, oak timber, teak and iroko, ribbed glass, sculptural details and finishes made from natural fibers create a warm and tactile environment.

Natural lighting and cross ventilation are maximized, strengthening the connection between the space and the elements of wind and sun – essential aspects of the surfing experience. At the same time, a multilayered artificial lighting scheme highlights the curves and geometries of the architecture, emphasizing the spatial composition during nighttime hours.

Through Ilios and Nalu, a unified architectural ensemble emerges, balancing flow and stillness. The result is a multisensory hospitality experience rooted in rhythm, equilibrium and the authenticity of surf culture.

 

Unified narrative

Located within Asia Pacific’s tallest tower, Merdeka 118, the newly opened Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur introduces the first Park Hyatt hotel in Malaysia. The project forms a spatial narrative that merges contemporary luxury with references to the traditional Malay kampung house. Through a carefully articulated lighting strategy, the interiors highlight texture, colour and materiality while framing expansive panoramic views of Kuala Lumpur’s skyline.

 

Spatial Organization

From the moment guests arrive on the lobby ground mezzanine, the spatial experience is shaped by a sequence of warm, timber-clad surfaces illuminated through discreet recessed uplighting. Backlit panels silhouette a series of pivoting screens, introducing a subtle theatricality that establishes the atmosphere of the hotel.

The main public spaces are situated on Level 75 and include the Lobby, Merdeka Grill, Park Lounge and Cacao Mixology & Chocolate Bar. Within these double-height interiors, accent lighting highlights key architectural features such as perforated brass screens engraved with intricate batik canting patterns. Bespoke ceiling pendants anchor each space and reinforce the rhythm of the interior composition.

 

 

Materials & Furnishings

Throughout the hotel, lighting functions as a primary design instrument, emphasizing the tactile qualities of materials and enhancing the layered interior palette. Brass, timber and textured surfaces are revealed through carefully controlled illumination that produces depth and warmth.

The hotel’s 252 guestrooms and suites are conceived as intimate spaces framing the surrounding cityscape. Lighting is carefully integrated within joinery elements to maintain visual clarity and avoid clutter. Discreet downlights illuminate artwork and architectural surfaces, while decorative fixtures inspired by woven fabrics introduce a softer, residential warmth to the interiors.

 

 

Lighting Strategy

The lighting strategy also strengthens the spatial hierarchy of the public areas. Feature lighting directs attention to architectural focal points, while softer ambient layers ensure visual comfort and reinforce the calm, refined character associated with the Park Hyatt brand.

On Level 99, the Wellness Floor transitions from the openness of daylight-filled spaces to a tranquil and immersive retreat. A sequence of softly illuminated arches references the traditional Malaysian five-foot ways, guiding guests through the spa environment while generating a calm and contemplative atmosphere that evolves throughout the day.

Together, the lighting and interior architecture establish a cohesive environment in which every element contributes to the guest experience. The result is a luminous architectural composition – one that transforms materials, spatial sequences, and panoramic views into a unified narrative reflecting the cultural spirit and contemporary identity of Malaysia.

 

Client: PNB Merdeka Ventures
Operator: Hyatt
Project Managers: Turner International
Art Consultants:  ArtLink
General Contractor:  Samsung C&T Corporation UEM Construction JV Sdn Bhd (SUJV)

Perforated screen

The project concerns the architectural planning and interior design of a boutique hotel unit located on the island of Tinos. The individual unit consists of a 50m² ground floor, incorporating a vestibule, and a 27m² attic level. In parallel, a general masterplan was developed as a proposal for the arrangement of 13 accommodation units across a 15-acre plot.

 

Design Philosophy

The design concept draws direct inspiration from the traditional dovecotes of Tinos, emphasizing their architectural, historical, and cultural significance. The project is grounded in an in-depth study of the dovecotes’ structural logic, morphology, and original function. The proportions, volume, and overall massing of the hotel unit reinterpret those of a typical dovecote, translating vernacular principles into a contemporary hospitality context.

The morphology of the building shell itself evokes the image of a dovecote. The entrance is defined by a “clostra element” – a perforated architectural screen that introduces a strong geometric expression. This feature references the traditional dovecote façade, originally designed as the birds’ point of entry. In contrast, the remaining surfaces are predominantly solid, creating a deliberate tension between openness and enclosure.

 

 

Context Integration

The units are carefully positioned in dialogue with the natural environment, responding to both orientation and topography. The complex is embedded within the landscape, facing the sea approximately 200m away, on the southern part of the island. A key guiding principle was the morphology of the island terrain, particularly its characteristic dry-stone walls, which informed both the spatial layout and the landscape design.

Beyond referencing dovecote architecture, the project aims to reconnect visitors with the land through an agritourism-oriented approach. Cultivation and engagement with the landscape are integral to the experience. Water also plays a central role in the design, reflecting the historical placement of dovecotes near springs or running water. Private pools are integrated into the site, following the logic of the dry-stone walls and unfolding organically across the terrain.

 

 

Spatial Organization

The total interior area of each unit is 77m². Entry is mediated by a vestibule positioned between the “clostra screen” and the glazed façade, ensuring a gradual transition and enhanced privacy. Shading is user-controlled, allowing flexibility in light and openness. The interior is organized as an open-plan space, where curved lines and natural materials foster a nest-like atmosphere that blends seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. On the ground floor, the living area forms the spatial core, flowing into the dining space and kitchen. A circular staircase leads to the attic level, which accommodates the bedroom, an open shower, and a WC.

The side walls feature rough-textured finishes, recesses, and openings that reinterpret the original functional cavities of dovecotes – spaces once intended to host birds. Integrated planting within the interior further reinforces the connection to the earth and natural cycles.

Finally, the accommodation units are conceived as sanctuaries, acting as spaces of retreat and introspection. They encourage seclusion, serenity, and a sense of isolation from everyday life, offering guests a distinctive spatial experience that promotes relaxation and reconnection with both nature and self.

 

Functional coexistence

Ergon Bakehouse operates simultaneously as a hotel, artisanal bakery, retail space, and restaurant – a multifaceted destination for gastronomy and hospitality in the historic center of Athens. It occupies a listed early-20th-century building designed by Vasilis Tsagris, where heritage architecture and contemporary use coexist in balance.

 

Design Philosophy

Originally housing residences and offices, with a commercial shop at ground level, the building stands as a representative example of classical Athenian architecture. Its architectural character has been carefully preserved, allowing the new design to integrate seamlessly with the existing fabric. Today, traces of both the building’s aesthetic and functional past remain visible, including plaster ornamentation, one of the original staircases, and the historic elevator. From the main entrance through to the guest rooms, the design narrative is guided by the life cycle of dough and the atmosphere of a traditional bakery.

The ground floor hosts the 72H Artisanal Bakery, where bread and baked goods are prepared and baked following a 72-hour resting process. A generous storefront draws visitors into three distinct zones: the retail area offering products for home baking, the cooking area, and the 72H Lab – the preparation space. Through existing openings, the open-plan workshop is fully visible, revealing processes that are typically concealed in conventional bakeries.

At the heart of the building lies the original entrance hall, which connects three key destinations: the retail shop and 72H Eatery, the hotel reception, and the waiting area. Vertical circulation is organized through two staircases and two elevators – one preserved from the original structure, and one newly introduced to meet contemporary circulation demands.

 

 

Functional Organization

Guest rooms are arranged across three floors, respecting the building’s original architectural layout and aligning with the existing façade openings that define their generous proportions. Each room reinterprets elements drawn from the world of the bakery and the professional kitchen. Dark firebrick surfaces, wall claddings, stainless steel worktops, and linen textiles come together to form a restrained yet tactile interior language.

Custom Elements & Lighting

Interior shutters were designed as an integrated blackout solution, fitted within the existing openings to modulate daylight and create a calm, intimate atmosphere. A defining feature of the rooms is the “ontas”, a multifunctional element that serves both as an additional sleeping surface and a place of rest – an architectural reference rooted in traditional Greek domestic spaces.

Lighting is intentionally minimal, precise, and atmospheric. A network of slender stainless-steel pipes runs throughout each room, supporting a variety of lighting applications. Due to structural reinforcements along the building’s perimeter walls, conventional cable routing was not possible. Instead, the piping system accommodates electrical wiring while simultaneously acting as a framework for lighting and textile suspension.

 

Sustainable hospitality

Tella Thera redefines Mediterranean hospitality through an architectural idiom that is rooted in tradition while remaining firmly oriented toward sustainability. Conceived as a retreat outside Chania, the project explores how cultural memory and contemporary design can converge to create a new model of regenerative hospitality.

 

Context Integration

In full harmony with its natural setting, the design incorporates planted roofs with olive trees and Mediterranean vegetation across all buildings, enhancing thermal insulation, fostering biodiversity, and anchoring the project to its environment. The façades are articulated through a sequence of arches -both full and half forms- serving as abstract interpretations of the traditional geometries found in the Venetian and Ottoman architecture of Chania. This motif continues inside, where seamless microcement surfaces unify floors, ceilings, and walls.

The cave-like atmosphere evokes natural shelters, offering a tactile calmness in which light and shadow shape the spatial experience. A total of 21 luxury suites provide panoramic views and maximum privacy, embodying both cultural depth and environmental stewardship.

 

 

Design Philosophy

The project is guided by eco-emotional design, a philosophy in which ecological intelligence and emotional resonance are intrinsically linked. Passive design principles, natural ventilation, and microclimatic strategies minimize reliance on mechanical systems, while the landscape interventions preserve and reinforce the existing olive groves.

 

 

Lighting, Materials & Sustainability

Through interdisciplinary collaboration, every aspect, from lighting to branding, contributes to a holistic narrative, while sustainability consulting ensured that environmental responsibility and experiential richness evolved in tandem. The complex does not merely rest on the land; it grows out of it. Its architecture is grounded in a “sense of belonging,” allowing guests to experience luxury through authenticity and an intimate connection with Crete’s timeless landscape.

 

Central core

The complex is located in the seaside village of Matala, in southern Crete, surrounded by the area’s distinctive rocky formations that create a natural embrace around the site.

 

Design Philosophy

The primary starting point of the design was the creation of a cluster of small buildings oriented around a shared central courtyard, reminiscent of the protected square of a small village. As a direct reference to the values and heritage of “togetherness” and communal life in Matala, the project reinterprets the traditional Greek island neighborhood, shaping a contemporary lodging for today.

The building volumes are arranged to offer residents privacy while simultaneously encouraging coexistence and interaction in the shared courtyard. The relationships formed between the structures generate open and enclosed living spaces -both private and communal- each with its own distinct character.

 

 

Spatial Organization

Access to the complex is through a courtyard gate on the southern side of the plot, a feature of traditional Cretan architecture. Along the perimeter of the courtyard are the entrances to the individual apartments, each leading to a private patio with a pool and views toward Matala’s iconic rock formations. External staircases connect the upper-level apartments to the common gathering area on the ground floor.

 

 

Material Palette

Natural plasters and materials, such as wood and locally sourced stones, were used throughout the wall surfaces of the buildings and the surrounding enclosure, providing a variety of textures. The selected color palette enhances the integration of the architecture into the landscape, harmonizing with the natural tones of the surrounding rocky and sandy formations. Finally, the construction relied primarily on local crews and craftsmen.

 

 

 

 

 

Interiors

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The hotel is situated in the seaside village of Kamari, near the coast of Santorini. It offers views to the north-east, overlooking the sea, and to the south-west, with a stunning perspective of the Profitis Ilias mountain. The building is situated on a corner plot and comprises two floors, with a basement level for ancillary uses. The ground floor features the reception area, a restaurant-bar, and eight rooms, while the first floor contains an additional seven rooms. The main entrance is located on the south-western side of the building, accessible via the municipal road, leading directly to the reception area. The restaurant-bar and rooms on both floors are reached through open and semi-covered corridors and staircases, primarily positioned along the perimeter of the complex.

 

The new hotel and swim club on the Glyfada waterfront was created through the complete transformation of a 1970s building complex. The renovation preserves the distinctive character of the era while meeting the highest contemporary hospitality standards. By showcasing the vibrancy and diversity of the modern Athenian creative scene and incorporating iconic works of international art and design, the hotel becomes not only a destination for visitors but also a cultural landmark for locals. The building comprises two interconnected wings of different heights, both of which underwent extensive structural, functional, and energy upgrades to enhance safety, improve energy performance, and ensure accessibility for people with reduced mobility.

 

 

 

Symbolic routes

The redesign of the interior of Minos Palace Resort aimed to create an experience that activates emotion and the senses, marking the transformation of a traditional hospitality space into a curated world of emotional, physical, and spiritual renewal.

 

Project Aim

Designed as a “place of well-being,” the project reflects the international shift toward a lifestyle model grounded in scientific principles and serving as the foundation of a comprehensive hospitality experience. The brief called for the redesign of the common areas and wellness spaces as immersive, safe environments for personal transformation.

The masterplan was implemented in two phases: first with the renovation of the lobby, restaurant, bar, and pool lounge, and later with the development of Nao, the emotional core of the resort. The design translated the journey of self-awareness into an architectural experience through open-air panoramas, serene interiors, and earthy tones that evoke calm.

Introducing an element of surprise into a historically strict, rectilinear building posed a significant challenge. Built in the 1980s, the resort presented substantial constraints: immovable structural columns and an outdated circulation logic. Breaking free from this rigid framework was both a technical challenge and an innovative ambition.

 

 

Design Philosophy

To achieve this, a design approach of flow and continuity was adopted, visually embodied by the spiral—the symbol of the resort. The spiral inspired organic lines, fluid pathways, and sculptural forms that dissolve static geometry and reflect the infinite movement of life and nature. Architecture thus becomes an evolving experience: a 360° environment that flows inward toward introspection and outward toward the sea.

A similarly decisive intervention was the redesign of the entrance. The original staircase was replaced with an extended ramp, while the reception level was lowered and brought into alignment with the exterior floor, allowing visitors to immediately connect with the horizon, architecture, and sea upon entry. The result is a moment of revelation where the boundaries between built and natural environments dissolve. Moreover, the Nao facilities are accessible to both the local community and the staff, promoting a culture of care and solidarity.

Service flow in the restaurant and bar was subtly optimized for greater efficiency and connectivity. Service points were strategically positioned to improve circulation, while the open kitchen enhances transparency and direct interaction with guests, creating a more experiential gastronomic encounter.

 

 

Vegetation & Materials

To balance minimalism with warmth, soft lighting, natural textures, and curved lines were incorporated, ensuring a design that is both sustainable and welcoming. Materials such as polished concrete, soft plaster, large glass surfaces, and custom metal structures were selected for reasons of sustainability and tactile experience. In the outdoor areas, the integration of water and fire required precise mechanical design to ensure both safety and elegance. Dense bamboo planting created natural sound barriers and visual privacy. Lighting followed the same intent: suspended lanterns and illuminated pathways enhance the sense of calm and immersion.

 

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.

 

Historical stratification

The restoration of the listed building by E. Ziller and its transformation into a hotel offered an opportunity to examine the architectural dialogue between new and old. At the core of the design process was the question of how the new interior layer could be articulated with clarity against the pre-existing structure so that the historic elements would remain visually and conceptually prominent.

 

Renovation Strategy

A single gesture within the renovation encapsulates the overall design intent. On the second floor, along the perimeter of the gypsum ceiling decoration, the project’s conservator removed a small section of the later white paint to reveal a rectangular fragment of the original, richly coloured ceiling painting beneath. This intentional “witness” preserves both the authentic layer and the later intervention, making visible the shifting aesthetic preferences of the neoclassical home’s former inhabitants.

This carefully curated “peeling”, creates a momentary opening into the past, exposing successive historical layers with clarity. Across the entire project, the distinction between new and old was primarily expressed through two elements: the axial layout and the ceilings.

 

 

Functional Layout & Materials

The original plan organized the rooms axially, with tall double doors allowing them to interconnect. This configuration was carefully preserved, as was the fundamental rhythm of the rooms. New bathroom spaces were positioned alongside the axial circulation and were designed as freestanding boxes that do not touch the painted ceilings. Clad in mirror, they visually recede, doubling the perceived volume and reinforcing the separation between old and new.

Most rooms in the neoclassical building featured colored ceiling paintings of high artistic value, though many showed signs of age – repairs, cable routes, cracks, and areas where the lath-and-plaster substrate was exposed. The conservator restored the damaged sections by extending the original artwork in full, while deliberately maintaining a light patina acquired over time. Crucially, the aim was not to produce a flawless, freshly painted ceiling.

Finishes & Custom Elements

In other words, the intention was not to create the impression of a ceiling that could have been painted “yesterday,” as is common in some Byzantine church restorations. A similar conceptual reference to the neoclassical façade was made on the ground floor, within the hotel’s shared spaces. The façade, unusual in that it faces three streets, features a distinctive arcade, which inspired the arched configurations of the high-ceilinged interiors.

The preserved architectural elements guided the colour selection for each room. By taking cues from the ceiling artwork, the wall finishes were chosen accordingly, while contemporary furniture was introduced – pieces that do not attempt to replicate the past, but instead establish a respectful dialogue with the neoclassical shell.

 

 

Subterranean composition

The hotel, entirely carved into the earth, is located in Imerovigli, the settlement at the highest point of the caldera. It was developed within existing caves with the intention of offering a contemporary interpretation of the traditional cave-dwelling experience.

 

Design Philosophy

The main concept revolves around an organic, shell-like form that flows through the space and shapes the boundaries of the carved structure. This idea is emphasized through the use of a single material across all surfaces, softening transitions and adopting a color palette that echoes the natural stone of the existing caves. At the street entrance, a sharp-angled volume made of perforated masonry directs visitors toward the interior.

 

 

Functional Layout

The ground level is flat, with the volume of the building submerged within the landscape, enhancing its discreet presence. A circular courtyard surrounded by water becomes a focal point, referencing the island’s original name and shape, “Stroggili” (“Round”). Both the courtyard and a structural pillar mark the transition from the ground level to the subterranean areas. A descending staircase, with an intermediate seating landing, leads to a rotating axial door that opens into a 37-meter vaulted sloping corridor.

Ten rooms unfold along one of its long sides, while the opposite side hosts common and service areas, two staircases for vertical circulation, reception, spa, restrooms, an office, preparation spaces, and mechanical rooms. Natural light and air enter the corridor through five skylights in the ceiling, the only visual connection to the sky.

The artificial lighting does not follow a symmetrical axis relative to the vault; instead, it leans toward the room entrances. Repeated 360° light fixtures rhythmically segment the corridor. The room layout retains the traditional tripartite structure found in historic cave dwellings: upon entering, guests encounter the bathroom area, followed by the sleeping zone, and finally the living area.

 

 

Landscape Design & Sustainability

The vaulted form extends beyond the room boundary, creating a sheltered outdoor space with a private jacuzzi and seating for each suite. A monolithic cladding material and deep charcoal tones dominate the envelope, while linear artificial lighting cuts through the rooms, drawing attention toward the dramatic views of the caldera and Oia. The furnishings support a sense of calm and relaxation, with subtle notes of minimal luxury. The spa area follows the same design philosophy, where light reflected on the water surface and the water’s temperature evoke a primordial, womb-like atmosphere. Returning to the upper level, guests encounter individual daybeds, semi-private dining areas, shared lounge spaces, a bar, a pool, and restrooms.

Geothermal systems and advanced insulation methods make the complex bioclimatic, ensuring stable interior temperatures independent of outdoor conditions and achieving a positive environmental footprint.

 

Dividing volumes

The five-star resort is located between Chania and Rethymno, on the northern coast of Crete, within a 20,000 m² plot, of which 4,000 m² are developed. A central aspect and challenge of the design was the configuration of the rooms and their strategic orientation within this limited footprint.

 

Design Philosophy

The architectural composition unfolds along the outer edge of the site’s developable zone. The southern boundary functions as a visual and acoustic buffer against the national road, while the northwestern section opens like a “fan,” maximizing the unobstructed views toward the sea. The careful arrangement of the volumes creates a central, open-air atrium that provides natural ventilation and daylight across the complex.

 

Functional Design

The layout is organized around a primary central axis leading to the reception and shared facilities, such as the restaurant, the swimming pool, and beach access. All rooms face the sea, ensuring privacy and uninterrupted views, while the central pool forms the core of the composition, around which the restaurant, circulation routes, and guest rooms are arranged.

The fragmented building masses and the circulation paths connecting private and communal areas maintain a continuous spatial flow, meeting the resort’s operational requirements and offering varied routes of movement throughout the complex. The hotel entrance serves as a visual landmark, defined by a distinctive metal structure with diffused lighting that highlights its refined details.

 

 

Material Palette

Earthy tones and natural materials such as stone, wood, and cement coating define both the interior and exterior spaces, creating an atmosphere of warmth and tranquility. The architectural language, combined with the chosen materials, establishes a strong identity, presenting the resort as a contemporary and welcoming destination where comfort and design coexist harmoniously.

 

 

Gentle Adaptation

The hotel in Santorini, characterized by its clean geometric forms, embodies a distinctive built environment harmoniously integrated into the natural landscape, maintaining a dynamic dialogue with the island’s traditional architecture.

 

Design Philosophy

Occupying a site of approximately 17,000 m² in the Tholos area of Oia, the project adapts gently to the island’s terrain, defined by soft slopes and a northern orientation overlooking the Aegean Sea and the islands of Ios, Sikinos, and Folegandros. Located about 300 meters from the coast, the design is guided by a principle of respectful integration with the landscape. All buildings are single-story, following the contours of the ground, and finished in tinted plaster derived from local volcanic soil in a red-ochre hue that echoes the color of Santorini’s rock formations. Each unit was designed to enjoy unobstructed sea views while the building volumes provide natural protection from the strong northern winds typical of the summer months. These parameters shaped the siting, scale, and orientation of the entire complex.

 

 

Spatial Configuration

The composition forms a play of interlocking geometries, with shifting axes and angular edges that recall the density and rhythm of a traditional settlement – narrow passages and tightly linked buildings reinterpreted in a contemporary way. The resort includes 52 rooms, four of which are suites and two designed for accessible accommodation. Interiors feature expansive surfaces of ceramic flooring and cement coatings in earthy tones, complemented by oak wood details that add a sense of warmth. Embossed wall motifs behind the beds reinterpret local decorative traditions, maintaining the overall design’s dialogue between heritage and modernity. The shared areas include a reception, restaurant, shops, and a spa.

 

 

Planting & Pool Design

At the heart of the complex lies a central pool with an extensive wooden deck that functions as a communal plaza and focal point for the resort. Outdoor pathways ensure smooth and inclusive circulation, particularly for guests with mobility challenges. Vehicle access and parking are conveniently integrated into the design. The landscape features low native vegetation characteristic of Santorini, preserving the panoramic views, along with aromatic plants such as lavender that enhance the sensory experience and reinforce the serene atmosphere of the place.

 

Two eras, one dialogue

The iconic Grace La Margna hotel, located on the main street of St. Moritz, has reopened its doors following an extensive renovation and expansion. The project breathes new life into a landmark dating back to 1906, originally designed by Swiss architect Nicolaus Hartmann, and elegantly bridges its historic legacy with a contemporary aesthetic. Hartmann’s original design balanced Art Nouveau influences with the traditional Heimastil style, highlighting authenticity and local craftsmanship at a time when St. Moritz’s architectural scene was marked by eclecticism.

 

Design Philosophy

Perched on the slopes of the Engadin valley, the hotel enjoys a strategic location next to the town’s historic railway station, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and offers panoramic views of the surrounding glaciers and alpine landscape. The architectural approach honors and enhances the building’s historic character while introducing a distinctly renewed identity. The composition consists of two wings: the meticulously restored original structure and a newly built extension, connected at their base by a generous terrace. The coexistence of old and new establishes a dynamic dialogue, with the extension, clad in beige Moleanos limestone, echoing the rhythm and proportions of the original façade.

 

 

Spatial Organization

The shared spaces, situated on the terrace level, serve as a seamless link between the hotel’s two entrances, ensuring a smooth transition from the historical to the modern setting. At the entrance of the original building, guests are welcomed by a sculptural granite and bronze reception desk, set against a backdrop of carefully restored wooden detailing. The main lounge retains numerous authentic elements, lake-view windows, marble fireplaces, Art Nouveau-inspired rugs, and crystal chandeliers, evoking the charm of early-20th-century hospitality. At the heart of the hotel’s social life lies Bar No. 5, defined by its striking Carrara marble counter and bespoke velvet seating, creating an atmosphere of understated luxury.

 

Custom Structures & Materials

Attention to detail and artisanal excellence define every aspect of the project. Custom furniture and handcrafted finishes, such as the traditional local sgraffito wall technique, reinforce the connection between place and craftsmanship. The dining venues draw inspiration from the region’s landscape. The View restaurant, a circular space with floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows, symbolizes the St. Moritz sun through a sculpted wooden ceiling radiating outward like beams of light. On the lower level, The Stack combines a bright seafood brasserie with a darker, moodier steakhouse, creating two distinct atmospheres unified by a focus on material richness and vintage accents.

The wellness area draws from the geological character of the Engadin valley, featuring a sculptural ceiling that mirrors the surrounding mountain ridges. Finally, the hotel’s 74 rooms, distributed across both wings, maintain a continuous dialogue with the alpine setting. In the historic wing, traditional materials and subtle Art Nouveau detailing coexist harmoniously with the refined modernity of the new extension, offering guests spaces that are both elegant and deeply connected to the natural beauty of St. Moritz.

 

Historical continuity

The traditional guesthouse occupies one of the most iconic buildings in the Old Town of Chania, dating back to the late 16th or early 17th century. The structure has been meticulously restored to preserve and showcase its historical character. Distinguished by the original stone columns on its façade, Aisha exudes a unique charm, specifically a refined blend of architectural influences that narrates the rich history of the area.

 

Functional Layout

The hotel features seven suites, five on the ground floor and two on the upper level, each named after the original function of the space in the historic building. The new layout embraces natural materials such as stone, wood, marble, and metal, while an earthy, neutral palette ensures a sense of warmth and luminosity. The design philosophy is rooted in the harmonious coexistence of old and new, aiming to evoke a subtle sense of nostalgia while offering contemporary comfort and elegance.

 

Adaptive Reuse Strategy

In keeping with this vision, several materials discovered on-site were carefully restored and repurposed, including the traditional cement tiles of the courtyard and a marble sink transformed into a washbasin. Original features, such as the wooden tsatmas (partition wall) along the first-floor corridor, the old fireplace in the “Fournos” suite, and the stone washing basin, also adapted into a washbasin, were reconstructed and preserved in their authentic form. The restoration process was carried out in close collaboration with local craftsmen, whose artistry and technical knowledge played a vital role in reviving the building’s historic essence.

 

 

Design Philosophy

The overall design strikes a delicate balance between contrasts, creating an atmosphere that feels simultaneously warm, authentic, and inviting. Every detail, from furniture and materials to decorative accents, has been thoughtfully selected to ensure a cohesive spatial narrative that encourages relaxation and a connection to the past. The intention behind Aisha Hotel is to offer guests a truly distinctive stay, immersed in the timeless beauty and tradition of Chania’s Old Town.

 

Water composition

Located just outside the area of Planos in Zakynthos, the hotel is set within a natural environment that harmoniously combines elegance with functionality, offering guests an authentic and immersive hospitality experience.

 

Context Integration

Occupying a 24,237m² site characterized by pronounced slopes, the complex takes full advantage of the terrain’s natural contours. The design establishes a series of terraces that integrate the architectural volumes into the landscape. The main building, villas, and bungalows are positioned to strengthen the guests’ connection with nature, offering expansive views and natural shade.

A defining feature of the composition is the use of water as a central design element. Large reflective surfaces – whether swimming pools or ornamental features – are placed strategically across the site. Following the natural gradient of the ground, these water features not only introduce visual calmness but also connect different zones, enhancing the overall sense of serenity and understated luxury. Water thus becomes the binding element between architecture and nature, generating a cohesive and tranquil atmosphere.

 

 

Spatial Organization

The main building unfolds across three levels, with functionality serving as a guiding principle in the design of the shared spaces. Entry is through an impressive arcade that frames unobstructed views and provides direct access to all hotel areas. Circulation is intuitive and fluid, reinforcing spatial and visual continuity.

On the ground floor, the reception and central bar create a welcoming focal point, followed by the restaurant and library, which combine comfort and refinement while maintaining a warm and inviting character. Each room has been carefully oriented to ensure uninterrupted panoramic views of the sea from every perspective.

 

 

Material Palette

Natural materials such as local stone and earthy tones on the façades reinforce the connection with the surrounding landscape. The result is a holistic design that embraces nature, achieving an elegant balance between built form and environment.

 

Creative revival

The new hotel and swim club on the Glyfada waterfront was created through the complete transformation of a 1970s building complex. The renovation preserves the distinctive character of the era while meeting the highest contemporary hospitality standards.

 

Design Philosophy

By showcasing the vibrancy and diversity of the modern Athenian creative scene and incorporating iconic works of international art and design, the hotel becomes not only a destination for visitors but also a cultural landmark for locals. The building comprises two interconnected wings of different heights, both of which underwent extensive structural, functional, and energy upgrades to enhance safety, improve energy performance, and ensure accessibility for people with reduced mobility.

The interior design adopts the same guiding principles, shaping every space to balance comfort, functionality, and visual cohesion. The public areas include a generous lobby and restaurant on the ground floor, an outdoor pool with a pool bar, a café, an exhibition space, as well as a rooftop bar, a second restaurant, and a rooftop pool. The lobby is considered the building’s central gathering point, and functions simultaneously as a meeting place and an art gallery, blending the structure’s original brutalist expression with a refined modernist sensibility.

 

 

Materials, Lighting & Furniture

Local materials such as Dionysos marble, wood, and ceramic tiles anchor the hotel to the architectural identity of Athens. Clean lines and geometric forms carry through the spirit of the original building, while new elements, such as untreated copper details and custom terrazzo flooring, introduce a contemporary touch. Lighting serves both practical and atmospheric purposes, adding dynamism to an otherwise restrained and minimal palette.

The 120 rooms are designed with minimalist lines and draw inspiration from the core principles of modernism. Echoing the interiors of Le Corbusier, their layout prioritizes functionality while preserving a sense of comfort. Custom-made furniture combines contemporary aesthetics with subtle references to mid-century Greek design, while built-in elements, terrazzo floors, and a measured color palette highlight the materials and architectural details.

 

 

Pool & Outdoor Design

The suites offer additional amenities, such as wet bars, and feature custom-designed murals that enrich the guest experience without deviating from the project’s overall design narrative. Outdoor areas, including the terraces and the pool zone, maintain the central idea of preserving the building’s original atmosphere while incorporating modern design trends. A new water feature and a shading pergola improve natural ventilation and cooling, enhancing comfort for guests.

The pool area evokes the Mediterranean leisure culture of the 1970s, with soft tones, olive-green loungers, and vibrant yellow umbrellas. This simple yet refined design creates a relaxed environment, allowing the architecture to blend seamlessly into the landscape of the Athenian Riviera.

 

The project explores the intersection of architectural storytelling and digital realism, offering an immersive vision of nature-integrated design within mountainous and forested landscapes.

 

Conceptual Approach

The series presents a collection of circular and serpentine architectural forms that echo the contours of natural topography, seamlessly embedded into lush environments. Each composition captures the interplay of real-world materiality, light behavior, and environmental interaction, pushing the limits of photorealistic rendering and the manipulation of scale.

The project’s intent is twofold: first, to spark new dialogues around biophilic design principles and circular spatial planning; second, to showcase the potential of AI-assisted and digital workflows in shaping future-oriented resorts, wellness retreats, and eco-sensitive developments. These models demonstrate how technology can serve as both a conceptual tool and a design accelerator, bridging speculation with feasibility.

Every detail -whether it is the tree canopies interwoven with architecture, water features forming the heart of central courtyards, or the careful choreography of shadows and reflections- is curated to evoke serenity, integration, and an authentic sense of human connection to place. Beyond aesthetics, the series also serves as speculative site research, where design fiction merges with technical precision to imagine new ways of living harmoniously within the natural world.

 

 

Software

Created with Midjourney

 

Materiality as narration

The architecture does not seek to dominate the landscape but rather to integrate into it with discretion. Volumes and openings adapt to the natural slope of the land, while planting complements and unifies the composition. The result is an architecture where living is experienced as an extension of the landscape, embracing both nature and the site’s inherent spirituality.

 

Design Philosophy

The project’s architectural approach was guided by the power of simplicity and the preservation of the site’s memory. The intervention sought to respect the authenticity of the monastic character, emphasizing spirituality and tranquility. The design philosophy embraced principles of minimalism, shaping a space that encourages silence, focus, and inner exploration. The decision to maintain clean lines and restraint was not merely aesthetic but a deliberate strategy that emphasizes the essence of architecture.

 

 

Spatial Organization

The spatial organization drew from monastic typologies, with clear functional axes that connect the main areas. Circulation was carefully choreographed to guide visitors through a gradual sequence of revelations, moving from public to private realms. Openings were positioned to frame views of the Leros landscape, enhancing the relationship with light and the sea. This arrangement establishes a harmonious dialogue between inside and outside, where the architectural shell acts as both frame and threshold.

The interiors were designed to support multiple uses without losing a sense of unity. The main gathering space serves as a central point of hospitality, while private areas preserve the sense of retreat. Transitions between spaces were designed to be fluid, supporting the visitor’s journey -from collective engagement to moments of solitude. Architecture here operates as a backdrop for life, allowing occupants to experience the place with flexibility and authenticity.

 

 

Material Palette

Material selection was guided by a strategy of balance between the old and the new. Stone walls were preserved and restored to highlight the building’s authenticity, while new insertions were made in wood, metal, and exposed concrete. Natural tones and textures enhance the sense of grounding and create an atmosphere of serenity. Materiality functions as a narrative tool, where each element carries the memory of place and bridges past with present.

 

Topographic extension

The project draws its inspiration from the volcanic landscape itself, which defines both the morphology and the development of the built volumes.

 

Design Philosophy

The structures blend seamlessly into the natural terrain, acting as an extension of the topography and avoiding any visual imposition on the environment. The composition unfolds across three levels, following the natural slope of the site along a West–East axis, allowing each residence to enjoy complete privacy and unobstructed views of the Aegean Sea.

 

 

Context Integration

To the northeast, a pathway begins at the top of the plot and descends through the complex with stepped routes and cobbled stairs. This axis acts as the backbone of the project, organizing the outdoor areas and the successive terraces with pools, pergolas, and lounge spaces. In parallel, large windows frame fragmentary views of the horizon, while outdoor spaces flow seamlessly into the landscape, creating the sensation that living becomes one with nature.

 

 

Functional Organization & Materials

The material palette is strictly earthy: exposed stone masonry, wood, and raw plaster blur the boundaries between the natural and the man-made. Each residence includes two bedrooms, a bathroom, open-plan living areas, and a private pool. The interiors follow the understated Cycladic aesthetic, with soft neutral tones and natural materials enhancing the sense of calm and brightness. Finally, vertical openings (cour anglaise) ensure ample natural light and cross-ventilation throughout the spaces.

 

Liquid stage

Located in the area of Analipsi, just 25 km east of Heraklion, the Stella Island Resort & Spa is a luxurious five-star resort. Its concept is unique by European standards, with water serving as the central theme and design focus.

 

Design Philosophy

The site’s relatively long distance from the shore and its nearly flat terrain inspired the creation of a bold master plan centered around water. As a result, the buildings -including the guest room wings and communal spaces- are arranged around an expansive, free‑form pool of approximately 5,000 m². Every structure has direct access to the water, creating the illusion of a floating hotel. At the heart of this “Lagoon” are the main common areas, designed as islands connected by wooden walkways and bridges. Together with the wooden platforms outside each room, serving as private terraces, this design gives the resort its distinctive character: a series of wooden, stilted structures suspended over the water. The scene is completed by timber superstructures -decorative sunshades attached to the facades and supported by tall, cylindrical columns that rise from the water. The landscaping, featuring primarily palm trees, adds an exotic and tropical atmosphere.

 

 

Materials & Furnishings

Natural building materials play a central role throughout the resort. The facades feature wood, complemented by local dark grey stone in the exterior spaces, creating an inviting sense of tranquility for guests. This approach is reflected in the design of the hotel’s 90 rooms, where wood predominates -including in the decking that seamlessly connects the interiors with the outdoor terrace. The furnishings and equipment have been custom‑designed for this concept, making use of natural oak, polished concrete, stone, and marble. Special attention has been paid to the design of the open bathrooms, combining functional precision with an extraordinary guest experience.

 

 

Outdoor Spaces & Amenities

The resort’s communal areas have been designed with the same focus on providing memorable guest moments. The thematic spa, located on the upper floor of the main building, embraces a sleek, modern design inspired by Eastern influences, with a central glass‑walled indoor pool offering sweeping views of the resort. The main restaurant is divided into distinct spaces -some open‑air platforms set directly over the water, some semi‑outdoor spaces with sea views, and a central area distinguished by a striking suspended wooden ceiling with a unique parabolic design, unlike any other in Greece. The open reception area, dominated by crisp white marble, welcomes guests via a diagonal pathway that allows a full, captivating view of the resort- a spectacular scene where water becomes an integral part of the architecture and experience.

 

Organic geometries

The 5-star hotel in Mykonos was conceived around the central idea of the endless motion of the sea’s waves and the creatures that inhabit its depths. Through a series of architectural gestures -including the abstract composition of solid forms, the emulation of natural elements, and the reinterpretation of traditional Mykonian architectural language- the project took its final shape.

 

Design Philosophy

The overall composition evokes the curves of the sea, with the entire building embodying fluidity at its core -as if a giant sea creature had emerged from the earth, shaping the volumes with its body and tail. The building’s organic form subtly references the typologies, shapes, and silhouettes of Cycladic architecture. Elements of the Mykonian landscape -dry stone walls, the sea, rocks, and arid vegetation- have been integrated as architectural details, offering a variety of textures and spatial experiences.

Drought-tolerant plants and palm trees are scattered throughout the property, engaging in dialogue with the building’s forms, while pools in direct contact with the guest rooms create additional water zones that weave through the courtyards and planting. The sculpted geometry of the semi-outdoor spaces encourages a constant interplay of light and shadow, framing views of the surrounding natural landscape.

 

 

Spatial Organization

Inside, the spaces offer a variety of qualities and materials. The sculpted masses evoke pieces of white rock, hollowed out to create functional spaces that meet the daily needs of the temporary guest. Curved forms and white niches serve as shelves or are lined with illuminated membranes, creating unique atmospheres. In the common areas, mirrored surfaces reflect and distort, adding an element of optical illusion.

 

 

Lighting Design

The thoughtful treatment of both natural and artificial light is central to the design. Natural light filters through glass openings, reflected off white surfaces, water, and polished materials, reaching even the underground levels. By night, the illuminated elements come to life, transforming the spaces through shifting tones and hues.

 

XENIA 2025 will welcome once again the entire hospitality community!

XENIA, which will be held from November 22 to 24, 2025, at the Metropolitan Expo, aims to showcase top-tier solutions and trends shaping the future of hospitality.

Hoteliers, architects, interior designers, and business executives seeking comprehensive solutions for upgrading and modernizing their accommodations will be present at XENIA — the exhibition that serves as a reference point for those striving to lead in Greece’s tourism development by investing in innovation, quality, and sustainability.

XENIA will feature integrated solutions and products covering every aspect of the hotel experience: from furnishings, catering, and decoration, to construction materials, kitchen equipment, catering machinery, digital applications, management systems, and energy-saving practices.

Visitors will also discover cutting-edge digital applications and technologies, tools for energy efficiency and sustainable practices, as well as the latest trends in design and customer experience, which are key factors for competitiveness and sustainability in the hospitality sector.

Discover here all the brands that will participate and present products and solutions for every type of tourist accommodation, whether it is a large hotel group, a boutique hotel or an agrotourism unit >>

 

 

Digi Hotel Stage – The Digital Revolution in Hospitality

In Hall 1, XENIA 2025 becomes a vibrant hub of technological innovation, where pioneers in IT and digital marketing present solutions that redefine the hospitality experience. Visitors will explore advanced IT systems, AI applications, smart tools, and booking optimization software with features like channel management, dynamic pricing, and automation.

Also showcased will be digital marketing platforms, tools to enhance online presence, and solutions for mobile check-in/out, smart room control via smartphone, digital assistants, and smart mirrors that elevate the guest experience.

Leading companies will participate, creating an ecosystem where technology meets hospitality, offering professionals the means to increase bookings, improve operational efficiency, and boost competitiveness in a rapidly evolving global market.

 

The Red Spot Stage – Architecture Meets Innovation

In Hall 2, the Red Spot Stage becomes a space of inspiration and creativity, where top architects, designers, and hospitality professionals present projects that have left a lasting mark on Greek tourism. Through case studies of award-winning hotels, presentations of innovative construction solutions, and discussions on new design trends, visitors will discover how aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability combine to create unique hospitality experiences.

The Red Spot Stage is where architecture meets technology, where design becomes a strategic differentiation tool, and where professionals draw ideas to upgrade their accommodations and stand out in a demanding market.

 

 

Build Sector Project – Construction as Experience

At XENIA 2025, renowned interior designer Costas Gagos and his team at Costas Gagos Architecture & Design will unveil a groundbreaking project that redefines the concept of hospitality, blending architecture and design into an experience that goes far beyond the ordinary. In Hall 2, visitors will have the chance to explore the new construction project titled “THE DESIGN TRILOGY”, a unique trilogy that combines three iconic room concepts and an advanced ONE Living model, creating an unparalleled experience for the modern guest. This is not just a room showcase—it’s an entirely different philosophy of hospitality.

General Assembly of HCH – Thoughts on the Future of Hospitality

On Saturday, November 22, as part of XENIA 2025, the 13th General Assembly of the Hellenic Chamber of Hotels will take place, gathering hundreds of hoteliers and top industry executives. The assembly opens the public dialogue on the most critical issues shaping the future of Greek hospitality, such as sustainability and green practices, digital transformation and technological innovation, human resources and education, and infrastructure upgrades and destination competitiveness.

 

 

Why Visit XENIA 2025?

• To secure strategic partnerships with top suppliers.
• To stay updated on global trends.
• To upgrade your business.
• To participate in workshops and networking events that inspire.

 

XENIA 2025 is the exhibition shaping the future of hospitality. Don’t miss it!

Get your FREE invitation online: https://www.xenia.gr/online-prosklisi/

Days & Opening Hours

Saturday 22 November, 10:00-18:00

Sunday 23 November, 10:00-18:00

Monday 24 November, 10:00-18:00

Location: Metropolitan Expo Exhibition Center

 

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Private oases

This project involves the redesign of a six‑room tourist accommodation located in the heart of the traditional settlement of Naoussa, Paros. The primary goal of the architectural concept was to highlight the clean geometry of the building’s envelope, breathing new life into it and creating a refined, distinctive character while honoring the heritage of Cycladic architecture.

 

Design Philosophy

At the heart of the design is the integration of perforated, linear canopies that filter natural light and elegantly frame the sea views, providing both shade and protection. These elements not only introduce a strong visual and functional identity to the building but also create a seamless connection between its interior spaces and the surrounding exterior.

 

 

Functional Layout

Each room, featuring an en‑suite bathroom, is organized into two distinct zones: an entry/living area and the main sleeping space. This layout promotes a sense of flow and openness, allowing for a natural and inviting transition between functions. Rather than relying on solid walls, spaces are defined by a carefully selected color palette and material treatments, creating a sense of clarity, fluidity, and sculptural precision throughout.

 

 

Material Palette

The choice of color, deeply connected to a natural material palette, plays a pivotal role in defining and interpreting spatial boundaries. The soft blue of the sky and the warm terracotta of the earth envelop the interiors, introducing a serene and harmonious atmosphere. Surfaces are finished with natural textures and earth‑toned colors, while crisp, luminous whites -a signature element of Cycladic design- dominate the larger surfaces, reinforcing a sense of brightness, purity, and tranquility.

Meanwhile, the terraces have been reimagined as intimate private “oases” that extend the living spaces to the outdoors. Outfitted with built‑in seating and water elements, these spaces invite moments of relaxation and privacy, merging the interiors with the exterior environment and offering guests a multi‑layered, immersive experience.

 

New identity

This project involves the complete renovation of an existing 23-room hotel located on Nikis Street, in a neighborhood near Plaka that mirrors the many dynamic facets of modern Athens -a city full of contrasts and surprises for the visitor.

 

Design Philosophy

The core idea was to craft a fresh aesthetic identity for the hotel, inspired by a fusion of diverse elements, styles, and references -echoing the vibrant mosaic of Athens itself. The concept was shaped by the owners’ vision, who, having lived in various European capitals, aimed to translate their cosmopolitan experiences into the new space.

 

 

Furniture & Custom Elements

While the spatial layout remained unchanged, all surface finishes, colors, and decorative features were reimagined. In the shared areas, the design evokes the feel of a reinterpreted classic boutique hotel. Glossy dark wood paneling coexists with brass accents, industrial touches, iconic design pieces, and elements of pop culture. The overall aesthetic leans toward a dramatic, “noir” atmosphere, defined by a rich palette of dark materials.

 

 

Material Palette

The chosen material palette was largely influenced by the existing nero marquina marble flooring in the restaurant area, which was preserved as a respectful nod to the building’s history. In contrast, the guest rooms and suites embrace a lighter, more serene ambiance. White walls are accented by copper-toned details and feature custom oak constructions for the headboards and open wardrobes. A standout design feature in the rooms is the semi-transparent bathrooms -framed in iron and fitted with retro glass- which were designed to allow natural light to permeate the entire space.

 

Contact with nature

Situated in the Laguna area of Naxos, one of the most significant redevelopment projects in the Cyclades is currently underway. Located on the island’s western coast, the project focuses on the Stelida hill -an area defined by its natural lagoon habitat, home to a variety of rare bird species, including flamingos. Historically and ecologically rich, the region was once home to the oldest known settlement in the central Aegean. Modern research has revealed traces of both Homo sapiens and Neanderthals, further highlighting its unique significance. The natural conditions of the area have also encouraged the growth of rare species of flora and fauna, making it a place of vital importance -one that must be both protected and celebrated.

 

Project Aim

The Laguna Coast Foundation, led by founder Antonis Pittaras, has launched a series of initiatives aimed at preserving the lagoon and its biodiversity, while also promoting the wider region of Naxos and its local products. A cornerstone of these efforts is the creation of a hospitality retreat that seeks to redefine Greek hospitality through deep respect for, and integration with, the natural environment. The design concept merges luxury with nature, guided by the principles of slow living -inviting guests to unwind, take in uninterrupted views of the ancient hill and sea, and explore the island’s rich culinary heritage.

 

 

Design Philosophy

Following an in-depth study of the site, the design sought to replicate the spatial experience of life by the lagoon within the bounds of the property. Three organically shaped, shallow water features were strategically positioned: The first, near the main entrance, introduces visitors to the tranquil atmosphere of the complex. The second, situated in front of the common-use buildings, provides a serene setting for the restaurant and reception area. The third and largest water feature lies at the heart of the complex, surrounded by several residential buildings.

All water features use desalinated seawater, aligning with the island’s environmental sustainability efforts by conserving freshwater resources. These elements offer not only visual and emotional relief but also improve the microclimate, naturally cooling the surroundings. Resting areas around the water enhance relaxation and help foster a deeper connection between guests and the landscape. The outdoor space is fully activated with thoughtful amenities, including an open-air gym, a wood-fired oven area, and a communal plaza designed for events and informal gatherings.

 

 

Materials & Landscape Design

Hardscaped areas define the primary outdoor spaces -such as the entrance, restaurant terrace, private patios, gym area, event plaza, and the wood oven zone. Materials are chosen for their earthy tones and natural character, including local stone and timber. These elements follow the natural topography to blur the lines between man-made structures and the landscape.

Meandering, organic paths -designed in color and texture to match the natural ground- guide movement from the public zones to the private residences. Wooden walkways traverse the water features, while secondary stone paths lead to more intimate corners of the property. These transitions gently shift the user’s experience from public to private, blending the pathways with native planting. All outdoor circulation was designed without stairs, ensuring universal accessibility and minimal disturbance to the terrain.

 

 

Spatial Layout

Apartment entrances are discreetly located at the rear, opposite the sea-facing side. Rear courtyards, accessed via the footpaths, are enclosed with perforated walls made from terracotta bricks in earthy hues. These offer privacy while allowing natural light to filter into the interiors. Apartments fall into two main categories: those oriented toward the sea feature private plunge pools, offering guests an immersive experience of privacy and comfort; others surround the central “lagoon,” with courtyards that appear to “float” above the water, creating a unique, tranquil atmosphere.

Interior spaces were designed to evoke a grounded sense of luxury paired with a warm, home-like ambiance. Generous layouts allow for visual connections between living, bedroom, and bath areas, offering both comfort and intimacy. All interior fittings and furniture are custom-made to maximize functionality and convey uniqueness. Materials and finishes were chosen with great care, favoring earthy, muted tones -oak wood, local marble crafted by skilled island artisans- presented with a refined, contemporary touch.

 

Historical revival

Nestled on a natural cove, minutes away from the Athens center, on what is referred to as the Athenian Riviera, the project stretches over a 21-hectare unspoiled lush reserve and 2.2 kilometers of pristine beach.

 

Existing Condition

The resort bears the legacy of the “Asteria” historical complex, originally conceived in the 1950s as an organized bathing and tourist destination, part of a greater scheme of rebranding Greece from the Bank of Greece and the National Tourism Organization. Three modernist architects, Vourekas, Dekavalas and Georgiadis, were appointed to design the elegant beachfront facilities, cabanas and bungalows that successfully attracted local and international jet set.

After years of neglect, a revitalization project sought to transform the site into a contemporary world-class destination, aiming to honor the essence of the coastal landmark while redefining its charm with contemporary terms. This project carries great responsibility, not only due to the natural beauty of its location but also because of the historical significance of its architectural heritage. It honors and enhances the harmony between the built and natural landscapes, seamlessly adapting to modern needs while preserving the charm and prestige befitting a venue of this caliber.

 

 

Design Philosophy

Embracing the same architectural language of honesty and raw beauty as its modernist predecessors, the residences and communal areas follow the footprint of the original structures. They repurpose the very same local stone, assembling it into linear walls that complement the restored lightweight timber elements. The material palette also includes locally sourced Greek marble, celebrating the traditional materials and techniques that have defined the site since its inception. Enhancing the experience of this privileged location, the resort offers outdoor sports activities, a wellness center, and versatile event venues alongside its residences.

At the heart of the resort stands its striking entry point -a two-story structure that diverges from conventional rectangular forms, instead embracing the fluid, curvilinear lines characteristic of 1960s modernist architecture. Situated within a gently sloping Mediterranean garden, its organic form, geometric claustra elements, and masterful interplay of light and shadow create an atmosphere that is both intimate and open, in harmony with the modest scale of the surrounding structures. Crafted from contemporary materials such as marble, polished wood, and repurposed stone, the building pays homage to the golden era of the Athenian Riviera while reinterpreting it for the present. Its design fosters a strong connection to the sea, with expansive windows and a curved staircase guiding guests seamlessly from the entrance to the coastline.

 

 

Functional Organization

The Agora building serves as the social heart of the resort, seamlessly integrating with the complex’s unified architectural language. Its carefully curated materials and spatial gestures, both on the facade and the interior, create a harmonious composition. Featuring an open-plan design and direct access to a sprawling courtyard, the Agora offers exceptional versatility for any event. Its true highlight, however, is a feature exclusive to its premises -a terrace that provides unparalleled panoramic views of the entire complex. From this elevated vantage point, the resort’s meticulous design unfolds like a breathtaking tableau, enriching any gathering with its refined aesthetic.

By the pool, Thimisi features an airy, organic canopy that pays homage to the iconic “mushroom-type” pavilions favored by modernist architects of the 1950s and 1960s. Nearby, Minima Bar embraces a structured, grid-like design that echoes the precise, orderly influence of modernism. The Spa and Wellness Center repurposes the shell of a former warehouse, seamlessly aligning with the resort’s philosophy by blending enclosed spaces with the natural surroundings. Its design extends amenities into functional patios, while the internal courtyard is elevated into a central feature -a serene focal point that embodies the essence of the complex.

 

 

Low Density Structures & Sustainability

The thoughtfully arranged bungalows integrate harmoniously into the landscape, maintaining a low-density footprint that allows nature to take center stage. Discreetly nestled within their surroundings, they offer guests an unexpected sense of freedom and an exceptional level of privacy. These low-rise structures seamlessly blend with the coastal environment, featuring sliding glass doors, expansive outdoor areas, and extended stone walls that create fluid transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces. Canopies and shaded terraces further enhance the connection to nature, forming serene in-between havens.

Embodying the essence of Mediterranean living, the bungalows draw inspiration from 1960s Athenian Modernism, with timber load-bearing structures, airy canopies, and repurposed stone walls. Set amid lush gardens, these seafront residences capture the vibrancy of the Greek summer lifestyle. Private pools, sun loungers, outdoor showers, and fireplaces cultivate intimate spaces for relaxation, while the use of locally sourced materials, including exquisite Tinos marble, reinforces a sense of sustainable luxury. Designed with a south-facing orientation, the bungalows maximize natural sunlight, creating a warm and inviting ambiance throughout the day.

Open spaces and structures coexist effortlessly, responding creatively to contemporary needs for minimal environmental impact and responsible construction. The material palette features native timbers and locally quarried marble in soft shades of pearly white and sand, accented by blue and white hues, olive wood, and handcrafted Greek linens, all contributing to an atmosphere of refined, eco-conscious elegance.

 

 

Interior Design: Muza Lab

Landscape Design: Greenways

Masterplan & Planning Consultant: Aspa Kst

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Isometric curves

This project presents a contemporary approach to landscape integration, grounded in the principles of adaptive reuse and a deep respect for the natural and cultural environment of southern Crete.

 

Context Integration

The site’s location played a pivotal role in shaping the design. With the Libyan Sea stretching out before it and the White Mountains rising behind, the landscape exerts a powerful influence on the visitor. From the mountains, a branching network of gorges and dry riverbeds descends toward the secluded beaches of the south, while human intervention has subtly enriched the native arid vegetation with cultivated olive trees. The project site embodies all three defining elements of the region: unobstructed sea views, dramatic rocky outcrops, and a section of the expansive olive grove.

 

 

Design Philosophy

Inspired by the distinctive topography and the warm yet rugged climate of southern Crete, the design seeks harmony with its surroundings. Four suites, each 45m² with a private outdoor area, are seamlessly embedded into the landscape, offering both privacy and open visual connections to the natural surroundings.

The layout follows the land’s natural isometric contours, forming four gentle “valleys” that gradually descend into the earth, each leading to a private courtyard. The “ridges” of the terrain shape and shelter the dwellings, engaging in a dialogue with the site’s vertical rock formations. The existing olive tree grid -a reflection of the area’s agricultural heritage- remains untouched, preserving the continuity of the landscape.

 

 

Material Palette

A soft white tone defines the façades and interventions, highlighting the “slopes” of these sculpted valleys in a modern interpretation of traditional local hues. Retaining walls and flooring are built from stone sourced directly from the site, shaping the terrain in the same spirit as the region’s historic dry-stone terraces and footpaths. Cast terrazzo concrete floors further reinforce the sense of continuity with the land. This architectural intervention merges seamlessly with the southern Cretan landscape, offering a tranquil retreat nestled within a wild and elemental setting.

 

Urban Character

The new hotel was developed by reconstructing and repurposing the historic Metaxas distillery building in the port of Piraeus. The project features 101 rooms, the Amber Cellar bar-restaurant, and a rooftop bar on the 8th floor. The interior is adorned with carefully curated artworks from the contemporary Greek art scene, underscoring the hotel’s vibrant urban character.

 

Design Philosophy

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.

 

Existing Elements

The circulation of visitors through the public spaces is defined by a series of successive wooden arches, which delineate distinct functional areas and unify the space aesthetically. The design of these arches is inspired by the geometric analysis of the circular and spatially inscribed barrel forms that once characterized the storage areas of the old distillery.

The renewed circulation route within the Metaxa distillery is further enhanced by an optical illusion created through the strategic use of mirrors on the inner sides of the wooden passages. This reflection amplifies the visual experience, adding depth and intrigue. The geometry of the barrels and their subdivisions is echoed in the interior of the rooms, particularly within the design of the fixed furniture elements.

 

Material Palette

The hotel’s interior color palette draws inspiration from the local landscape and collective memory. The blue hues of the sky and sea blend seamlessly with the warm golden tones of the Greek summer light, culminating in the rich amber shades reminiscent of Metaxa cognac. Enhancing the accommodation experience, the public and private spaces feature murals and sculptures by renowned artists Kostas Varotsos, Konstantinos Kakanias, and Jason Megoulas (Cacao Rocks).

Historical contrast

Perched on the hillside above Vourni Beach, the hotel is an architectural intervention that harmonizes with its surroundings, appearing to emerge organically from the earth. The design fosters a continuous dialogue with the landscape, respecting and enhancing the island’s unique beauty while seamlessly blending the built and natural environments.

 

Context Integration

The design pays homage to the island’s unique beauty, fostering a seamless connection between the built environment and the natural terrain. During the project’s excavations, archaeologists unearthed the remains of a classical-era tower, constructed around the same time as the Parthenon. Further up the slope, remnants of a late Byzantine cellar and scattered Ottoman-era structures were also discovered. These findings reveal a rich historical tapestry, with thousands of years of human presence etched into the very rocks of the hillside.

 

Morphology & Layout

Today, Odera leaves its mark on this historic landscape. 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 complex draws inspiration from the traditional layout of Cycladic villages, known for their dense clusters of residences and narrow alleys that often lead to breathtaking openings toward the rocky terrain and the vast expanse of the sea. Odera’s design echoes this layout, with winding pathways and hidden passages that reveal unexpected vistas and tranquil spaces. A series of arches form a side corridor that extends from the reception area, creating a sense of mystical depth. This architectural gesture draws on Byzantine influences and evokes the transcendent atmosphere characteristic of Orthodox church design.

 

Materials & Natural Light

Streams of light filter through the windows, illuminating the interiors and creating a dynamic interplay of light and shadow. The design, featuring white stone, wood, and native vegetation, captures the very essence of Tinos. The sculpted volumes of the rooms evoke the organic charm of traditional settlements, seamlessly merging with the surrounding natural landscape. Meanwhile, the infinity pools -reminiscent of small lakes formed by sudden rainfall- blend harmoniously with the boundless Aegean horizon in the distance.

Massouridis Theodoraki Architects is a well-established architectural firm with decades of experience in designing and overseeing a wide range of projects, including tourism, residential, industrial, commercial, educational, and public buildings. Building on a 45-year legacy in architectural design, interior design, and master planning, the firm is now led by architects Alexandros Massouridis and Myrto Theodorakis.

 

S.M: You studied at architectural schools known for their strong theoretical focus, yet your work is market oriented. What skills did you gain from those studies?

MT: Innovation in architecture, and what constitutes an innovative building, remains a topic of debate. We believe that true innovation in architecture lies in how it is constructed and realized, rather than in the act of design itself—which is always a response to a problem that can arise in countless ways. Instead of highlighting specific examples of architecture, we focus on a period in architectural history: Modernism. In our view, this era was pivotal in shaping the architectural timeline and in redefining the way architecture is brought to life.

 

S.M: How is the luxury market in architecture defined in Greece? Given your firm’s extensive experience, what changes have you observed over the years, and what trends do you foresee in the future?

MT: MTArchitects brings many years of experience to the field, having worked on numerous high-end projects across hotels, residential, office, educational, and public buildings. With extensive expertise in the luxury market, we have observed that while the fundamental demands for design excellence, quality, and aesthetics remain unchanged, the understanding of space is evolving. It is increasingly seen as a medium for storytelling and creating memorable experiences. In the luxury hospitality sector, the focus has shifted to the guest’s “experience”, with multiple layers of references. Architectural design now incorporates a wide array of factors that shape the identity of a project and its connection to its location.

The visitor is placed at the center, with the primary goal of architectural design being to create reference points that foster memories, imbuing the hospitality experience with purpose and meaning. The space is designed to evoke empathy, meeting the needs of each individual. Elements such as light and shadow, noise and tranquility, texture, color, temperature, and the weight or lightness of materials all play distinct roles and work in harmony. Another evolving factor is the integration of new technologies into building design. There is a growing demand for ‘smart’ building systems that serve a dual purpose: optimizing control over the space’s living conditions while also respecting the environment through bioclimatic design and sustainable solutions.

 

S.M: We often say that new hotels “change the map of Athens.” However, in your experience, what infrastructures are lacking in the city to allow such designs to thrive -without being overshadowed by the urban environment, or disregarding it entirely?

MT: Athens is a city with a dynamic and multifaceted character, constantly evolving. It is a place of contrasts and tensions, where the ancient and the modern coexist, as well as the private and the public, the organic and the planned. In Greece, it is common to see infrastructure develop in response to emerging needs, rather than through a carefully designed master plan. This is also true for the recent surge in tourism, which has led to a rapid increase in hotel establishments, while infrastructure and government response have followed in kind.

Infrastructure, in this context, includes not only physical systems but also institutions and the legislative framework. New attractions are being created, and networks are emerging that connect key landmarks such as hotels, museums, monuments, and squares. As a result, the map of Athens is being refreshed, offering travelers new ways to explore the city. At the urban level, collaboration between hotels, infrastructure, and both private and public initiatives is essential to creating a functional and livable city.

 

Read the full interview at the 252 | November 2020 ek issue.

The cliffs’ extension

Situated in the heart of the enchanting island of Folegandros, Gundari Resort sits perched on dramatic cliffs, offering breathtaking views of the endless blue sea. More than a destination, it is a seamless blend of inspired architecture and untouched natural beauty.

 

Design Philosophy

The project is conceived as an organic extension of Folegandros’s rugged cliffs, designed to frame the priceless, uninterrupted views of the sea. Every material has been carefully chosen to play its part in nature’s symphony, infusing life at Gundari with a rhythm that dances to its own beautiful tune. The 80-acre resort blends seamlessly into the landscape, with each architectural detail inspired by the timeless spirit of the island.

Stone, the essence and backbone of the Cycladic terrain, is skillfully incorporated into linear walls that echo the natural flow of the landscape. Between these solid stone lines and the tranquil surfaces of the walls, delicate wooden structures weave through the architecture, creating fluid, transitional spaces that breathe life into the resort’s design.

 

Functional Organization

Each of the 27 suites and villas is meticulously crafted from natural materials and thoughtfully adorned with furnishings that harmonize with the surrounding landscape. The addition of a private outdoor shower evokes a sense of nostalgia, recalling age-old rituals of communion with nature and inspiring a return to life’s simple, natural pleasures.

Positioned on the northwest side of the complex, the bar-restaurant gracefully emerges as a central gathering spot, offering an inviting and refined space for guests to come together. Its strategic location and captivating ambiance make it the ideal hub for social connection and relaxation.

 

Context Integration

In the lower area of the complex, a distinct interplay emerges between architecture and nature, creating a sanctuary for the spa and the secluded suites. These spaces are nestled into the earth itself, fostering an atmosphere of intimacy and harmony.

Here, the building flows with the landscape, allowing the natural contours to shape its form and evoke a sense of relaxation, serenity, and privacy. Architectural elements blend seamlessly with the surrounding rocks and natural environment, making visitors feel like part of the island’s timeless story, where crafted design and nature’s beauty coexist in perfect harmony.

Discrete integration

The three-story hospitality complex, situated on a corner plot in a quiet district overlooking the bay of Argostoli, harmonizes with the traditional urban fabric through its thoughtful scale and design.

 

Urban Integration

Blending neoclassical character with modern accents, the building is subtly integrated into its surroundings, allowing visitors to connect with the city through its orientation, views, and carefully curated decorative elements. It houses eight suites and features a serene communal garden with a swimming pool on the landscaped terrace.

 

Functional layout

The entrance, centrally located, leads into a wide corridor that divides the floor plan, providing access to the reception area and a wellness space in the basement. The building’s eight suites, each around 25 square meters, are arranged across three levels in varied layouts, each offering a unique relationship with the city. On the ground floor, two rooms are symmetrically positioned on either side of the main corridor, with views of the garden. The first floor features three rooms with views of both the city and the sea, while the top floor, beneath a tiled roof, includes one single room and two duplex suites. These duplexes span in two levels, each including a loft area.

Inside the suites, bathrooms play a central role, enhancing the accommodation experience. Rather than using doors, the rooms are subtly divided, with the bed positioned behind a light partition. Each suite includes spacious, full-length washbasins, freestanding bathtubs, while a series of large windows allow ample natural light to enter the space.

 

Material Palette

The material palette and decorative choices throughout the building evoke a traditional, historic ambiance while preserving a distinctly contemporary character. The structure is rendered in a monochromatic, earthy hue that subtly accentuates its neoclassical details. Light-colored terrazzo mosaic slabs, white marble, and travertine stone are used for the floors and wet areas, while the fixed furnishings and interior partitions are crafted from natural oak, complemented by large woven wicker panels. Fabric selections follow the same aesthetic, featuring monochromatic, light earthy tones with distinctive weaves and textures.

 

Lighting Design & Furniture

The color and material palette deliberately avoids strong contrasts, while the movable furniture and lighting introduce dynamic accents with slender metal elements in dark or bronze finishes and curved shapes that contrast with the clean, linear layout of the spaces. Local character is conveyed at every scale, from large architectural details to smaller decorative elements. Particularly notable are the custom porcelain ceramics by Victoria de Borbon, adorned with motifs of Kefalonian wildflowers. Their bold, sculptural forms blend retro aesthetics with a modern flair, encapsulating the guesthouse’s unique character and ambiance.

Central atrium

The hotel is situated in the seaside village of Kamari, near the coast of Santorini. It offers views to the north-east, overlooking the sea, and to the south-west, with a stunning perspective of the Profitis Ilias mountain.

 

Functional Layout

The building is situated on a corner plot and comprises two floors, with a basement level for ancillary uses. The ground floor features the reception area, a restaurant-bar, and eight rooms, while the first floor contains an additional seven rooms. The main entrance is located on the south-western side of the building, accessible via the municipal road, leading directly to the reception area. The restaurant-bar and rooms on both floors are reached through open and semi-covered corridors and staircases, primarily positioned along the perimeter of the complex.

 

 

Design Philosophy

The primary goal of the design was to create a central atrium-water feature that serves as the core of the composition. Surrounding it, the individual volumes, functions, and circulation paths are arranged in an asymmetrical Π shape, allowing the building to open towards the view and the sea. The water element starts as a narrow strip parallel to the reception area, then curves, gradually widens, and eventually transforms into a swimming pool that runs the length of the building’s atrium. Surrounding the pool are the rooms and the restaurant-bar, with their outdoor spaces extending into the water, as if they are floating.

The rooms on the upper floor, which are in direct visual alignment with the central atrium, also feature outdoor spaces and smaller private pools, further emphasizing the central concept. The building’s form, shaped by the volumes and voids, is gently integrated into the scale and character of its residential surroundings. It takes on a simple cubist appearance, blending traditional elements with modern design.

 

 

Material Palette & Decorative Elements

The interior design draws inspiration from both traditional and modern architectural elements of the island, referencing the morphology and decorative features of its local style. It incorporates the tones and textures of the volcanic landscape, alongside the atmosphere of Mediterranean seaside hotels.

Key design elements include the shape and size of the openings, domes, horizontal slats, spindles, dry-stone walls, tiled mosaics, and the earthy hues of pressed concrete. Bright colors and natural materials are used in the furniture, fixtures, and decorations, while intricate fabric patterns, along with tropical plants, further enrich the space. These elements come together harmoniously, creating a unique and cohesive style.

 

Uninterrupted facade

The project is one of the first points of contact for visitors to the Rogla sports and tourist resort. Built as the final addition to a group of hotels, it represents perhaps the biggest visual departure from the recognizable expression of the previous interventions, which referenced the local, rurally developed landscape to a larger degree.

 

Design Challenge

Hotel Natura was designed as Rogla’s highest-rated hotel but was never fully realized. Much of the envisioned accommodations remained unbuilt, however the investor now intends to modify its typology and to extend the hotel with the addition of multi-purpose common areas and a recreational swimming pool. As a result, the project’s most challenging aspect was to tackle the expansion through a different design approach, where the new section will stand more “elegantly” next to the distinctive, heavy-weight existing complex.

 

Architectural Approach

Rogla’s romantic landscape imagery greatly informed the extension’s main design: to create a façade that is seamlessly converted into a roof. More specifically, the facade is visually transformed into a timber gable roof, which acts as a historic reference to the context. The timber is freely stacked and uncoated, thus gradually aging and coalescing in sync with the surrounding landscape. The new addition therefore does not reference the existing building as much as it does the surrounding forest and traditional rural development.

 

Functional Organization

The interior organization offers a clear division between the public and the private accommodation sections. The entire public program features taller storeys that open toward the forest to the north, while all the guestrooms are designed with slightly lower ceiling heights and are oriented toward the ski stadium to the south. The difference in floor heights is bridged by a new staircase operating as a “vertical hall”, as well as a new double-sided lift. This strategic layout offers uninterrupted views and allows natural lighting to enter the interior, including in the corridors as well as all the public spaces.

Following the terrain

The new five-star Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa Hotel, set on a 22-acre mountainside in Plaka Elounda, overlooks the island of Spinalonga. Designed with a modern approach that harmoniously blends local tradition and architecture, the resort’s main goal is to evoke the relaxing ambiance of a village.

 

Context Integration

The plot’s steep slope, along with an innovative architectural design, ensures that all rooms enjoy unobstructed views of the sea and Spinalonga. The hotel is developed in harmony with the land’s topography, consisting of six tiers: the main building divided into volumes across a series of levels, four groups of separate buildings, and a cluster of villas.

Each group comprises smaller building volumes, thoughtfully arranged to facilitate easy pedestrian access to the double overground inclined lift that connects all levels of the hotel. This lift, offering panoramic views, serves as the main access for pedestrian traffic, while club cars provide a complementary, non-intrusive mode of transportation.

 

Material Selection

The design prioritizes privacy, maximizes the stunning views, and respects the natural surroundings through extensive use of traditional materials. The unique local stone, with its geometrically fragmented rock forming the exterior walls, is balanced by softer interior elements: volcanic black pebbles in the spa, small white pebbles on the main staircase, and green-black pebbles on the lobby bar floor and in the shops. Pergolas crafted from distinctive wicker wood further enhance this harmony. The exterior color palette blends seamlessly with the environment, using gray tones for the pathways and corridors, and a range of olive greens throughout the main building and restaurants.

 

Hotel Amenities

The hotel has 64 rooms and suites, all including a private heated pool and a large outdoor area with uninterrupted sea views as well as 6 three-room villas with a gym and a pool and, finally, one large villa with a sauna, a pool, a gym, a separate kitchen and a large outdoor area. The hotel also features three restaurants, a spa, a gym and two modern meeting rooms for 160 and 30 people respectively as well as two large, public swimming pools.

Monochromatic interior

The project involves a complete interior and exterior transformation of an existing hotel in Plovdiv, formerly known as Hotel Nord.

 

Design Approach

The building is located in a key area near the International Fair. The neighbourhood is characterized by solid facades and inner courtyards at the back of the properties. Previously, the hotel’s inner courtyard was enclosed by a solid roof, creating a low-ceiling dining area that lacked natural light. The goal of the project is to modernize the look and branding of the hotel so that it reflects the new values it stands for.

 

Context Integration

The building aims to establish a conceptual connection with its urban context and become an elegant and contemporary place for relaxation. The façade is radically redesigned, while preserving its original geometry. More specifically, the white colour lightens the building’s heavy appearance, which is dominated by solid walls. Vertical aluminium profiles add depth and dynamism to the facade, breaking its monotony. Additionally, hinged panels in front of the windows will be placed in order to filter light into the interior and enhance the facade’s dynamic composition.

 

Material Palette

The sense of spaciousness in the courtyard is improved by replacing the bulky roof with glazing. Within the interior, the design draws inspiration from the timeless architecture of ancient Plovdiv. Light shades and a dominant white colour help visually expand the spaces, creating a calm and relaxing atmosphere throughout the hotel. The interior is designed as a bright, monochromatic space, with dynamic contrasts achieved through a variety of textures that provide a rich tactile experience. The surfaces range from smooth to highly textured, referencing the local syenite stone found at the hills of Plovdiv. Traditional lime mortar, a material dating back to the Roman and Byzantine eras, is used for the flooring and some of the furniture pieces, adding an homage to the architectural heritage of the city.

Harmonies and contrasts

The eight-story, 1800m2 building is undergoing a complete renovation and transformation into a modern, four-star city hotel with a total of 53 guest rooms. Designed to accommodate the high volume of tourists who pass through the Port of Piraeus, this project aims to offer an updated, comfortable, and stylish hotel experience that aligns with the needs of contemporary travelers.

 

Material Palette

In line with contemporary architectural aesthetics, materials are carefully selected to provide guests with a sense of warmth, intimacy, and luxury. Wood is chosen as the primary material, featured in the flooring and wall cladding of both the rooms and corridors on each floor.

To complement the wood’s natural appeal, sections of the interior room walls are covered in sound-insulating wallpaper in an off-white tone, creating harmony with the dominant wood elements. The lobby area, designed to feel open and inviting, is highlighted in white and finished using polished, pressed cement mortar.

 

Contemporary Aesthetic

Together with the wooden elements, the high aesthetic quality of the space is further enhanced. The hotel’s restaurant evokes the ambiance of a modern industrial bistro, where material choices and color palettes blend contemporary design trends with touches of vintage charm from past decades.

 

Façade Renovation & Sustainable Design

The building’s exterior façade preserves the original stucco, enhanced with black aluminum frames and architectural accents around each frame. The contrast between the white marble of the façade and the rectangular metal etalbond panels forms a striking, repetitive geometric pattern. In terms of infrastructure, modern mechanical systems have been installed to maximize energy efficiency, supporting environmentally conscious operations, which are essential in today’s world.

Pure geometries

The new 5-star hotel complex is situated on a stunning peninsula nestled between Ipsos Bay and Dassia Bay. Spanning a unique 245-acre plot characterized by varied terrain, the design features clean geometric forms. The harmonious proportions of the low building volumes, defined by their simple lines, embody the project’s architectural principles.

 

Functional Organization

The resort features 390 rooms and suites distributed across ground-floor as well as two-story buildings, organized into four sections. At the center lies the grand reception building, which hosts the main public areas, including the reception desk, a spacious lobby and bar, and a shopping arcade. Abundant greenery, found in suspended gardens and large atriums, both separates and unites the various spaces.

The Flavors restaurant is situated on the ground floor of the main building, while two additional themed restaurants -one Asian and one Peruvian- are located on the first floor. The resort also features four independent themed restaurant buildings, each with a distinct character, scattered throughout the property. Other amenities include a spa with an indoor pool offering scenic views, an open-air theatre, a teenage-activities building, and a daycare facility. The surrounding area boasts four bars, various sports facilities, four communal pools for adults -each paired with a children’s pool- an aquatic playground, an administration building, and finally, additional amenities.

 

 

Sustainability Approach

The project integrates fundamental principles of bioclimatic design, maximizing the use of renewable energy sources and adhering to environmental regulations. The prominent presence of water elements, including large swimming pools and various water surfaces, contributes to a microclimate that enhances the natural environment, offering a sense of coolness and relaxation. On the south and west elevations, circular columns, large, recessed glazing bars, and front porches direct the sunlight and create a seamless transition from interior spaces to exterior overgrown gardens. On the east elevations, pergolas extend to further control natural light and connect indoor and outdoor spaces.

 

 

Landscape Design & Materials

The use of natural materials such as stone, marble, wood, and wicker, along with special lighting and earthy tones, creates a sense of intimacy, and comfort. The natural environment played a decisive role in shaping the framework for the development of the complex. Low buildings are strategically scattered, with gaps and pathways winding through the trees and varying plant densities to preserve the existing landscape as much as possible, allowing the building volumes to seamlessly emerge from within.

 

Simple design

Overlooking the endless blue of the Aegean Sea, the new hospitality complex features three holiday homes and is located in the pristine location of Katodio, Karpathos.

 

Landscape Integration

The new hotel name evokes one of the island’s most intimate rituals: evening gatherings with family and friends. Situated in the rugged topography of Katodio, the three villas are designed in an amphitheatrical setting, becoming integrated with the natural landscape and offering panoramic sea views. By adhering to the traditional architectural scale of the site, the design incorporates open spaces between the structures, while ensuring each villa’s privacy.

Architectural Language

The architectural volumes are meticulously clad in dark and whitewashed surfaces to seamlessly blend into the natural landscape. Each villa features its own swimming pool with direct access from the living room, as well as a private courtyard enriched with aromatic herbs to enhance the authentic experience. Large openings merge the indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in nature during their stay.

The rustic charm of the island inspired the simple design of both the exterior and interior of the houses, while the wild, raw beauty of the landscape influenced the color palette, where earthy and stone tones playing a dominant role.

 

Materials & Textures

Modern contrasts throughout the design come together in a minimalist setting, featuring natural materials in shades of grey and ranging from black to white. Raw wood is used in furniture as well as an accent and, along with natural textures and fabrics, creates a balanced blend of traditional and contemporary elements. Nothing appears superfluous, with all components and materials operating in complete harmony.

Contrasting composition

The new hotel includes 38 rooms in various typologies and is situated in a prime location in Naousa, Paros, right by the sea. The architectural design aims to craft an authentic hospitality space of high standards, becoming seamlessly integrated with the traditional settlement and the distinctive landscape of the Cyclades.

 

Functional Configuration

The hotel’s architecture features a contrasting composition: cubic prisms face the settlement, while circular volumes overlook Piperi Beach and its lush vegetation. The circular structures accommodate common areas, including the reception, a pastry shop, a Japanese cuisine bar-restaurant, and a spa. Meanwhile, the rectangular buildings house the guest rooms and the main restaurant. Guests can take a leisurely stroll starting from the reception, through the open-air area of the pastry shop, and across the planted terraces of the main restaurant, culminating in a panoramic view of the blue Aegean Sea and its refreshing northern breeze.

Between the two geometric units lies a 55-meter-long swimming pool, which appears as an extension of the sea, through the design of an elongated ramp with a glass safety rail. Two restaurants with outdoor seating are situated on either side of the pool, making it the central hub of the hotel’s outdoor activities. A second, circular hot pool is part of the spa, while at the opposite end, an additional circular space serves as an outdoor theatre and yoga deck.

 

Material Palette

All rooms have been meticulously designed, featuring white marble as the primary material, a nod to classic Greek aesthetics. The use of light colors as well as large openings that allow light and air into the space, creates an atmosphere of relaxation and well-being, while reflecting the natural palette of Naousa’s landscape. The color scheme draws inspiration from the blue hues of the water, the white of the Cyclades, and the sand -all of which can be found in the flooring, pergolas, and common areas of the restaurant and spa.

 

Architectural Language

The central concept of the design is to modernize and connect with the local island heritage. The architectural language features formations with arches and wall recesses, semi-circular sections, cubic structures, and geometric patterns combined with irregular shapes. This distinct style is echoed on a smaller scale in the interior design, seen in the custom-built curvilinear furniture and the reliefs on both horizontal and vertical surfaces.

A distinctive feature of the design is the flooring, which consists of irregular white marble slabs with off-white joints. This modern take on the traditional paving found in the island’s settlements is used throughout the rooms as well as the public areas of the hotel.

Mastrominas Architecture, an award-winning architectural firm, was founded in 1984 in Kos by Ilias Mastrominas. After studying at the Polytechnic University of Milan and the School of Architecture at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Mastrominas established the firm, which currently has a second office in Athens. The firm has extensive experience in designing hotels, luxury residences, and office buildings. Their design philosophy is distinguished by its minimalist expression, emphasis on functionality, and the incorporation of elements of traditional Greek architecture in a contemporary style.

 

S.M: You began your studies at the Technical University of Milan and completed them in Thessaloniki. What skills did you acquire in Italy, and how did you initially perceive architecture within the Greek context? What do you consider to be the milestones in the evolution of your design approach?

I.M: In 1977, when I went to Milan, Greece was seeking a new path into democracy and modernization. As students, we were highly politicized, full of dreams, and eager to learn and progress. Milan offered me the rich culture of northern Italy, exposure to art and culture, and formative influences that unconsciously shape my design approach. In the extensive library of the Faculty of Architecture, I discovered the masters of the modernist movement -Le Corbusier, Mies Van der Rohe, Alvar Aalto, and others- who profoundly influenced me.

Dimitris Fatouros and his lecture at the School of Architecture in Milan inspired me to return to Greece, where I discovered Pikionis, Crocus, and especially Aris Konstantinidis. I read all of Konstantinidis’ books, striving to deepen my understanding of his work. The way he elevated Greekness through modern architecture, the simplicity of his style, and above all, the “truth” that reflects the architect’s soul, captivated me. From then on, achieving this in my own work became my daily goal.

My professional journey began with a collaboration with the late Sotiris Kouki, a hotel architect known for his work throughout Greece. Under his guidance, I learned about hotel operations and the organization of a large architectural office. The next phase of my career was my partnership with ISV in 2004. In 2005, I moved to Athens to work with them, and together we founded ISV+M, a real estate agency. At the same time, we worked together on the design of hotels in Kos and Patmos. I am deeply grateful to them and want to express my appreciation.

 

S.M: You established your first office in Kos, focusing on the tourist sector through large hotels and residences. Was this choice inevitable?

I.M: Borrowing Aris Konstantinidis’ definition that “residences are containers of life,” I would say that “hotels are containers of joy.” They provide visitors with a refuge from the stress of everyday life and the hustle of urban centers, allowing them to connect with nature. My interest was sparked by the rapid tourist development of Kos in the 1980s, during which accommodations were built haphazardly to meet the overwhelming demand. This prompted me, as a student at the Architectural School of Thessaloniki, to choose a course focusing on hospitality buildings.

I was fortunate to train under Professor Xanthippe Hoepel. The coursework was more demanding than a typical university thesis; we spent months working from morning till night on projects for a city hotel and a resort. Our team excelled, and our project was presented to the next year’s students. Upon graduation, my professor, who was then a shareholder in the largest architectural firm in Thessaloniki, “Tzonos-Hoepel-Hoepel” -with Panos Tzonos being another excellent professor- offered me a position in their office. Thus, Kos was not an inevitable choice; it was my love for the place that made me start an office there. In retrospect, I believe that accepting the position at my professors’ office would have saved me considerable time and effort in achieving the milestones I have reached.

 

S.M: When and why did you decide to move to Athens, and how much knowledge exchange occurs between the two offices?

I.M: Working in Kos, I had the opportunity to design hotels from a very young age, many of which were quite large, with capacities of up to 1,200 beds. I am very grateful for this experience. However, my love for architecture led me to Athens twice -first through my collaboration with ISV, and later to establish my own firm. My office in Athens is staffed by young architects and interior designers, and my goal is to pass on my extensive experience to them. In turn, they enrich our work with a diverse range of ideas, approaches, and trends.

The Kos office provides us with projects from the island, which are primarily developed in Athens, where our main team is based. The exposure to new ideas, products, technologies, and construction materials is more direct in Athens, and this integration is crucial to our design process.

 

Read the full interview at the 272 | November 2022 ek issue.

New hospitality experience

The project is a reconstruction of a historic hotel from the 1950s, located in the northern suburbs of Athens, and aims to create a new hospitality experience. Nestled in the lush green Kefalari Grove, the building is architecturally characterized by its geometric appearance and the austere style it exudes, which is set against its rich and colorful interior.

 

Renovation Approach

The redesign challenge began by removing several structural elements as well as the façade and strengthening the load-bearing structure. By eliminating structural elements, it opened up opportunities for design freedom, ultimately striving to create functional floor plans. The hotel’s orientation, its size as well as the vertical white blinds of the façade, contrast with the dark repetitive symmetrical balconies and create a vertical geometry that visually elevates the building’s volume.

The ground floor acts as an autonomous zone, suitable for hotel guests and external users alike, offering many entertainment and catering areas. Parallel to the street, an overhead canopy covers as well as marks the entrance. Upon entering the hotel, a careful combination of colors, elements, shapes, and original works of art, along with furniture from different eras and cultures, effectively communicates the eclectic personality of this building.

 

Material Palette

Using an abundance of fabrics and textures -with velvet being the predominant material, emanating a sense of nostalgia- the lobby is characterized by a bold color palette flooded with intense natural light that penetrates the ground floor’s perimeter. A large, central core on the ground floor, cladded in walnut wood and elegantly sculpted into a gentle curve, serves as the main orientation axis, directing visitors to the different spaces.

 

Interior Design and Organization

The interior design focuses on the “parallel” activities taking place in the hotel. All the ground floor spaces accommodate a plethora of uses and offer different experiences. The new restaurant, a semi-open-air Parisian bistro, and a special library housing some of the most important art publications are spaces used for business meetings or relaxation during the day. The design objective for each space is to create an atmosphere that triggers memories and unique experiences for the visitor.

A 1950s spiral staircase leads to the 28 rooms and suites on the upper floors. While ascending, a vertical glass window extends along the height of the rear elevation, offering a unique view of the natural area surroundings. The carefully lit corridors of the floors leave a sense of mystery, while the rooms are divided into five different typologies based on five distinct material palettes, colors, and tailor-made elements.

 

Custom Furniture

From the bed headboard to the open-concept wardrobe and bathroom amenities, all rooms feature custom-built wood furniture joined with brass metal fittings. On the roof, a wine & cocktail bar with a panoramic view becomes a destination for guests and external visitors, offering them a sense of being among the treetops. This flexible space works all year round, even during the winter, since a fully transparent enclosure enables its use without obstructing the view.