Timeless contemporary living

Located in the heart of Kolonaki, the 115m² apartment renovation reinterprets classical interior architecture through a contemporary spatial narrative. Rather than imposing contrast, the proposal establishes continuity between inherited decorative elements and modern living conditions, preserving ornamental ceiling moldings, wall paneling and symmetrical proportions while introducing a calmer, more minimal architectural vocabulary. The intervention approaches the apartment as a layered spatial composition where historical references and contemporary clarity coexist in balance.

 

Design Philosophy

The project positions itself within a contemporary neo-classical framework, where proportion, material permanence and spatial coherence become the primary design tools. Existing architectural details are neither concealed nor replicated nostalgically; instead, they are carefully reframed within a restrained interior atmosphere that prioritizes rhythm, tactility and long-term relevance over temporary stylistic gestures.

Dark timber wainscoting introduces depth and visual grounding throughout the residence, while curved travertine surfaces soften transitions between spaces and generate sculptural movement within the plan. Herringbone wood flooring reinforces the apartment’s refined domestic character, establishing continuity across the different living zones. Minimal kitchen surfaces and integrated detailing maintain spatial calmness, allowing materials and proportions to define the architectural experience. Artworks and sculptural objects are positioned as integral spatial components rather than decorative additions, contributing to the composition of each room.

 

 

Spatial Organization

The organization of the apartment is defined by flexibility and controlled permeability. Folding partitions composed of metal frames and fluted glass operate as transitional thresholds between the living room, dining area and kitchen. These movable boundaries enable the interior to alternate between openness and privacy without interrupting the continuity of natural light or visual connection.

The spatial arrangement avoids rigid separations, instead supporting changing patterns of everyday habitation through adaptable configurations. Circulation unfolds organically through layered thresholds and framed visual axes, while the interplay between transparency and opacity creates a dynamic relationship between collective and private functions within the residence.

 

 

Material Palette

Materiality functions as the central architectural language of the project. Travertine surfaces, dark wood textures and muted tonal palettes establish a tactile environment rooted in permanence and restraint. The bathroom spaces continue this material dialogue through vertically articulated stone textures and contrasting dark timber cabinetry, maintaining consistency across the apartment’s interior identity.

Furniture selections further reinforce the sculptural quality of the spaces, introducing rounded geometries and soft forms that balance the architectural rigidity of the classical envelope. Lighting is integrated discreetly throughout the project, emphasizing texture, curvature and depth while preserving the calm atmospheric quality of the interiors.

Through a careful negotiation between preservation and reinterpretation, the project proposes a residential environment where contemporary domesticity unfolds within the enduring framework of Athenian neo-classical architecture.

 

Varying context

Located in Ílhavo, Portugal, the project unfolds as a single-storey residence that seeks to reconcile the programmatic requirements with the specific characteristics of the site. The plot is situated within an area that currently remains undeveloped along its periphery, though it is expected to undergo significant residential growth in the near future. Within this transitional context, the residence attempts to establish from the outset a clear relationship between private living and the surrounding landscape.

 

Functional Organization

The decision to resolve the entire program on a single level transforms the outdoor space into an integral component of the architectural composition. The remaining green areas are not treated as residual space, but rather as active elements of everyday habitation and the overall spatial organization of the house.

The arrangement of the volumes gradually defines the spatial hierarchy of the residence. As movement progresses deeper into the site, the spaces acquire an increasing sense of privacy and seclusion. Architecture employs the positioning and geometry of the volumes as tools for organizing daily life, creating a clear transition from the more public to the more protected functions.

 

 

Design Philosophy

The architectural proposal is structured around two distinct volumes, differentiated both formally and functionally in response to the specific content of the program. These volumes are strategically positioned on the site in order to maximize solar exposure, establish controlled relationships with the surroundings and frame the outdoor spaces.

At the same time, the openings and incisions of the façades allow for controlled natural light while reinforcing the continuity between interior and exterior space. In this way, the residence develops a constant visual and functional extension toward the landscape, integrating greenery into the spatial experience of the interior.

 

 

Material Palette

The form and materiality of the project draw reference from the region’s traditional constructions, reinterpreting familiar architectural elements through a contemporary compositional language. Clean volumes, inclined surfaces and a restrained material palette compose an architecture that engages with the local building tradition without resorting to mimicry.

The use of zinc surfaces, natural timber and bright neutral materials throughout the interior reinforces the understated character of the residence, while simultaneously introducing durability and timelessness to the composition. Light is treated as a primary architectural tool, shaping interiors defined by calm atmospheres and subtle variations of illumination throughout the day.

The result is a residence articulated with clarity and economy of means, transforming the relationship between built and unbuilt space into the central core of the architectural experience.

 

Working laboratory

Taller Di Frenna Arquitectos has developed its own architecture studio in Colima, Mexico, conceived as both a functional workplace and a platform for creative exploration. The building accommodates workspaces, meeting areas, audiovisual facilities and interior courtyards, organized within a series of clearly articulated volumes. Through the use of exposed materials, textural experimentation and the integration of natural light and vegetation, the project reflects the studio’s broader architectural ethos.  

 

Design Philosophy

The headquarters is conceived as an environment where architectural production and research coexist. Beyond accommodating the daily operations of the practice, the building operates as a space for experimentation, collaboration and the development of ideas.

The program includes open-plan workspaces, meeting rooms, audiovisual areas and a dedicated model-making workshop. These functions are arranged to foster interaction between team members and to support the various stages of the design process, from conceptual exploration to final presentation.

Rather than functioning as a conventional office, the building acts as a working laboratory, embodying the studio’s design methodology while enabling the continuous testing and evolution of architectural ideas.

 

 

Construction Logic & Materials

The architectural composition is defined by a sequence of clean, well-proportioned volumes. Emphasis is placed on the use of exposed, honest materials, allowing construction elements to remain visible and to express their structural and tactile qualities.

Concrete, steel, charred wood and stone form the primary material palette. Their combination, through varied textures and finishes, generates a layered architectural language that negotiates between industrial precision and natural expression. This material strategy reinforces durability while foregrounding craftsmanship and construction techniques.

The approach aligns with a broader design philosophy rooted in clarity of form, authenticity of materials and the integration of artisanal knowledge within contemporary architectural practice.

 

 

Courtyards & Spatial Organization

A network of interior courtyards structures the spatial organization of the building. These voids introduce natural light and vegetation into the interior, while establishing visual and physical connections between different programmatic zones.

The interplay between interior and exterior conditions produces a gradual spatial transition, where built volumes and natural elements coexist in a continuous dialogue. Variations in light, shadow and level contribute to a dynamic spatial experience, mitigating the monotony typically associated with enclosed office environments. These intermediate spaces also function as areas of pause and informal gathering, supporting a working atmosphere that encourages reflection, exchange and collective engagement.

The realization of the building involved close collaboration with local builders and artisans, whose contribution is evident in the detailing, surface treatments and material finishes throughout the project.

 

Sculptural outline

The project, with a total area of 24,000 m², involves the creation of an office complex and Media Campus in Kifisia, incorporating state-of-the-art television and radio studios.

 

Design Philosophy

The design is driven by the concept of sculpting a monolithic volume, carving out cavities and introducing porosity within a solid structure. Within this interplay of mass and void, the program unfolds, reflecting the client’s core philosophy: the shaping of a continuous flow of information. Much like water gradually erodes stone, the architectural form emerges as a constructed “nature.” The result is a dynamic, sculptural building defined by its strong presence, articulated through the use of limestone, complemented by aluminum, bronze, and wood detailing.

 

 

Spatial Organization

At the main entrance, a three-story-high “cavity” clad in linear wooden elements creates a striking threshold that welcomes visitors. The concept of carving extends into the interior, where a central, light-filled “canyon” is formed. Through the subtraction of volume, bridges connect the opposing office wings, while vertical voids allow natural light to penetrate deep into the building via a glazed roof, reaching even the lower levels. In plan, the building is organized in a horseshoe configuration, with office zones facing the central atrium. This permeable space extends across five floors and incorporates smaller atria and sculptural bridges, establishing visual connections between levels and enhancing transparency throughout.

Due to the site’s elevation differences, a secondary entrance is located at the rear, combined with access to the underground parking. This entrance leads directly to the studio level, where all media-related functions such as the newsroom, control rooms, and support spaces, are arranged on a single plane, forming a unified and operationally efficient media hub with direct access to the surrounding environment.

Landscape Design & Sustainability

The television studios, designed according to the same principle of porosity, are clad externally with perforated aluminum panels that are internally illuminated. During the day, they appear as solid metallic volumes in dialogue with the central atrium, while at night, light filters through their perforated surfaces, revealing a lighter, more ethereal presence and expressing the activity within.

The surrounding landscape is organized to accommodate both vehicular and pedestrian flows, as well as the operational requirements of the studios. At the same time, a series of outdoor green areas is introduced, offering spaces for relaxation and extending the workplace environment. These gardens incorporate seating areas within diverse planting zones, forming an urban green enclave that enhances the local microclimate – both within the building and its surroundings, including the integration of sky gardens.

The project adheres to the highest environmental and acoustic standards. The careful integration of the complex technical requirements – particularly those associated with studio functions – into the architectural design ensures a seamless dialogue between technical performance and spatial quality. As a result, the building maintains a coherent architectural language and a distinct, unified identity.

 

Quiet framework

The architecture is conceived as a quiet framework that intensifies the relationship between interior space and the natural environment. Rather than competing with the landscape, the building acts as a device that frames views, regulates light, and heightens awareness of external conditions, positioning the house as a precise and deliberate insertion between forest, sky, and terrain.

 

Context Integration

The project is located in a low-density residential area near the Pacific Ocean. The clients requested a residence defined by spatial clarity, privacy, and a close relationship to the surrounding landscape. The site occupies the edge of a residential zone and is characterized by dense vegetation and long-distance views toward the sea. A mandarin orchard extends along the southern slope, while a mature bamboo forest defines the western boundary. The gently sloping plot measures approximately 5,200 m², and the primary design challenge was the precise positioning of the house within this expansive and largely undeveloped landscape.

 

 

Functional Organization

The organizing element of the project is a 20-meter-long swimming pool, 5 meters wide and reaching a depth of 2.5 meters. The pool establishes the main axis of the composition and is aligned directly with the mandarin orchard. All primary spaces are arranged in relation to this linear element, allowing visual continuity across the site and positioning the pool as both a spatial and orientational device. The reflective surface of the water mediates between architecture and landscape and remains perceptible from all major interior spaces.

Access to the house is conceived as a compressed sequence. Entry occurs through a partially enclosed approach that leads to a low-lit gallery. From this transitional space, a set of wide, heavy doors opens into the main living area, where the full length of the pool and the orchard beyond are revealed. This sequence of compression and release, articulated through contrasts in ceiling height, scale, and light, draws from principles found in traditional Japanese architecture. These contrasts are subsequently resolved into a consistent structural grid with a uniform height of 3.5 meters, establishing a clear spatial rhythm across the interior.

 

 

Material Palette

The tearoom is located at the most secluded point of the plan. It is intentionally darker and more enclosed than the surrounding spaces and is oriented toward the adjacent bamboo forest. The room reinterprets elements of the traditional tea house – natural plaster finishes, bark-covered timber, and references to the work of Sen no Rikyū – a through a contemporary lens, emphasizing restraint, proportion, and material presence.

The program also includes a wine cellar, two guest bedrooms, and a fitness room, all integrated within the same structural and material logic. A restrained palette of materials and a high degree of detail control reinforce the minimalist character of the project.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Quiet retreat

The project was conceived as a serene extension of a family home, offering a place for movement, relaxation, and quiet retreat.

 

Design Philosophy

Set among mature trees, it balances openness with a sense of refuge, creating an environment shaped by light, calm, and connection to nature. Positioned above the sloping terrain, the pavilion touches the ground lightly, supported by slender columns. Existing trees are preserved and incorporated into the outdoor spaces, reinforcing the sense of immersion in the landscape.

 

 

Spatial Organization

The structure forms a counterpart to the existing residence, defining an outdoor courtyard used as a central gathering space. Inside, the rooms are arranged around a warm, timber volume, with expansive openings that allow the surrounding landscape to frame each interior area.

The 1970s stucco-clad suburban home is connected via a bridge leading to the pavilion, which includes areas for exercise, rest, and small-scale gatherings. A fitness room, sauna, bathroom, and flexible multi-purpose space are linked to the house by a bridge. The elevated deck extends the interior outward and creates additional zones for leisure.

Material Palette

The interior emphasizes natural tones and soft textures, allowing daylight to guide the atmosphere throughout the day. Exposed structural elements filter sunlight from above, creating subtle patterns that echo the surrounding canopy. Finally, existing redwood and oak trees puncture the new deck, structuring space as much as the walls of the pavilion itself.

 

 

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.

 

Formal clarity

This project explores a balance between formal clarity and the experiential quality of space. It is a single-family residence designed for a family of four, situated on a plot with indistinct boundaries and minimal urban context. The design aspires to create a clean, functional, and well-ventilated shell that uses light, shadow, and geometry as core architectural elements.

 

Design Philosophy

The plot is elongated along the north-south axis, featuring pronounced elevation changes and a direct adjacency to public green space on its western edge. The composition is shaped by the way the site gradually reveals itself to the visitor, approached along an east-west axis from the street. The house is positioned one meter above street level, recessed into the terrain to create a buffer zone that offers both visual and functional privacy.

The ground floor is organized as a longitudinal rectangle along the north-south axis, articulated into two zones: a wider zone housing the primary living spaces (living room, dining area, kitchen), and a narrower strip accommodating secondary functions such as storage, a study, and vertical circulation. The main entrance is located at the southwest corner and is conceived as a choreographed passage through exposed concrete walls, creating a sense of transition and anticipation.

 

 

Spatial Organization

The upper floor includes three bedrooms and two bathrooms, aligned along the north-south axis. Private areas are situated along the eastern façade, while a circulation corridor runs along the west, punctuated by openings to the north and south. This configuration enhances cross-ventilation and mitigates heat gain from the afternoon sun during the summer months.

The architectural expression reaches its peak in the introduction of a single, exposed concrete slab that separates the two floors. Acting as a horizontal datum, this slab delineates programmatic zones while emphasizing the sculptural quality of the design. Extending southward, it forms a covered veranda supported by cylindrical columns. From a distance, the slab appears to make the building float, visually lightening the volume and allowing it to blend subtly with the surrounding landscape.

 

 

Sustainability Strategies & Materiality

Natural light and ventilation are maximized through large openings and strategically placed cross-ventilation apertures, which draw in cool air filtered through the adjacent olive trees in the public green space. These passive strategies reduce reliance on mechanical cooling in summer and enhance overall energy performance.

The material palette is intentionally minimal and earthy. Rough-textured white plaster is paired with exposed concrete cast in Swedish timber formwork, establishing a clear visual contrast and a sense of material authenticity. The exposed concrete defines the slab, structural beams, and vertical elements such as retaining walls and the frame of the covered parking area.

Crucially, the natural environment is not treated as separate from the residence, but as an extension of it. The surrounding garden remains uninterrupted, unfolding organically and engaging in dialogue with the adjacent public green space. Outdoor areas are paved with brushed concrete and pebble-finished surfaces, enriching the tactile experience and reinforcing the home’s connection to the Cypriot landscape.

 

Cultural redefinition

The iconic Greek fashion brand Parthenis was founded in 1970, when Dimitris Parthenis opened his first store in Athens. In 1978, Parthenis opened a boutique in Mykonos, which was both a source of inspiration and a stepping-stone for international fame. Parthenis’ minimalist, monochromatic designs are recognised worldwide for their timeless elegance, high quality, and flattering silhouettes. With Orsalia Parthenis, daughter of the founder, at its helm, the brand continues its strong global presence in the world of fashion and design.

 

Project Aim

The project seeked to transform the label’s flagship store in Mykonos town into a multifunctional space, where customers can shop Parthenis’ instant classics and enjoy a drink, or a light meal inspired by the elemental Cycladic lifestyle. Located next to the island’s famous windmills, the café flows onto a courtyard overlooking Little Venice and its legendary sunsets.

 

 

Design Philosophy

In parallel, the design aim was to conceive, construct and curate every stage of the creation of Parthenis Café, from spatial philosophy to interior design, including a range of custom-made furniture and lighting. The design draws inspiration from the eternal elements of Greek summer: light, energy, and simplicity. The result is faithful to the pure forms of Cycladic architecture and the easy, stripped-back Parthenis aesthetic, using local materials such as marble, wood, and metal in modern yet timeless ways.

 

 

Material Palette & Custom Structures

Sculptural marble and metal sconces, a marble counter and a bar clad in textured wooden panels, nesting tripod stools and side tables that can be reconfigured around low benches with striped cushions, all complement the clean lines of the Parthenis collection. Clothing is displayed on free-standing rails suspended from the ceiling. The project draws inspiration from Greece and its cultural heritage, redefining contemporary Greek style with international elements and reimagining Hellenism’ in a minimalist and elegant way.

 

Flowy experience

The project centers on the creation of a modern wellness hub arranged over two levels. Its core objective is to seamlessly integrate diverse functions into a unified architectural experience, achieved through a fluid interior layout shaped by the interplay of materials and light.

 

Spatial Organization

Visitors enter through a double-height space illuminated by pendant lighting, where a semi-circular polycarbonate surface guides movement inward. In the retail area, elongated counters, linear ceiling fixtures, and full-length wall shelving emphasize horizontal lines, creating a sense of motion and depth. Toward the back, the space opens up once more through a soft curve, accommodating a lounge and kitchen. Natural light filters in through skylights set in the sloped metal roof, while a mirrored column subtly disrupts the visual field -enhancing the perception of spatial continuity.

Color Palette & Materials

Bright white serves as the dominant color throughout. The materials were chosen boldly, with smooth tonal transitions but striking contrasts in texture. Glossy finishes like epoxy paint and stainless steel alternate with coarse materials such as earth and plaster. A lightweight, corrugated plastic surface is juxtaposed against the smooth, heavy mass of marble—highlighting both contrast and balance.

 

 

Natural Light

Light reflects, refracts, or is absorbed in a variety of ways, with natural elements along the perimeter gently softening the edges of the space. This nuanced lighting enhances the dialogue between synthetic forms and organic presence.

 

Dynamic geometries

Situated on a half-corner plot in eastern Paphos, this residence is designed to strike a balance between geometry, functionality, and light. Three prismatic volumes intersect horizontally and vertically, creating a dynamic composition where voids and solids define circulation and the relationship between interior and exterior.

 

Functional Organization

The ground-floor volume, aligned along the north-south axis, houses communal areas – living room, dining area, kitchen, and a utility room. Expansive glass surfaces to the south allow natural light to penetrate deeply, blurring indoor-outdoor boundaries while seamlessly connecting the space with the veranda and garden. This volume is organically linked to the covered parking area and storage room, enhancing functionality and usability.

In contrast, the elongated first-floor volume serves as a tranquil, protected retreat. Centrally positioned, it reinforces the building’s symmetry while offering privacy. This level accommodates three bedrooms, a shared bathroom, a laundry room, and an office space.

Custom Structures

A sculptural curved metal staircase connects the two levels, introducing an organic element that contrasts with the strict geometry of the volumes, visually lightening the space. Light and shadow play a crucial role in the composition, constantly transforming the atmosphere. Geometric elements cast dynamic shadows, while glass reflections create an ongoing dialogue between interior and exterior spaces.

 

 

Material Palette

The residence embodies a contemporary interpretation of Mediterranean architecture, utilizing regional materials in a refined manner. Kavala stone, solid wood, white plastered surfaces, and glass form a palette that harmonizes with the natural surroundings. Ultimately, the house becomes a canvas that redefines everyday living, evolving with its inhabitants to offer continuity, tranquility, and timelessness.

 

Visual expansion

In the Anaktora area of Kolonaki, a top-floor apartment in a preserved 1930s interwar building is undergoing renovation. The goal is to retain the penthouse’s old Athenian glamour and historic charm while seamlessly integrating contemporary design elements. The result is a harmonious fusion of past and present, creating a cohesive and timeless visual narrative.

 

Existing Condition

The design process was driven by the goal of preserving as much of the original structure as possible while adapting the interiors to meet modern living needs. This approach resulted in a thoughtful and cohesive synthesis of old and new. Key historic elements -such as the original parquet flooring in the main living areas and bedrooms, the concrete tiles and mosaics in the hallways, sliding oak doors, and intricate plaster ceiling details- have been carefully retained. Meanwhile, new flooring has been introduced in the kitchen and bathrooms, using materials that harmonize aesthetically with the existing ones, ensuring a balanced and cohesive color palette.

 

 

Functional Layout

A new wall composition in the living room incorporates an energy-efficient fireplace, while the existing bookshelves in the living and dining areas are reorganized to optimize storage for books and other items. The wall separating the dining room and kitchen is replaced with a glass partition, creating both a functional and visual connection between the two spaces. This design choice enhances the sense of openness, allowing natural light to flow freely and providing unobstructed views of Lycabettus Hill.

 

 

Custom Structures

The design maximizes the uninterrupted views of Mount Hymettus and the surrounding urban landscape. In the master bedroom, the bathroom draws inspiration from Japanese architecture, intentionally deviating from conventional renovation trends. Similarly, the bedroom wardrobes are enclosed with curtains instead of doors, incorporating indirect lighting to create a soft, atmospheric, and dreamlike ambiance.

 

Primeval shelter

Situated in the serene, pine-covered neighborhood of Rea on the northern slopes of Penteli, the project harmonizes with the forested landscape that serves as its backdrop. It is designed to meet the demands of modern living while evoking the sense of protection and intimacy found in a primordial shelter, seamlessly blending with the mountain’s mystical surroundings.

 

Design Philosophy

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

 

Building Morphology

This rhetoric finds architectural expression through a geometrically defined, tectonic, and Doric-inspired form -a structurally coherent whole, marked by an enigmatic simplicity. The central compositional gesture involves the suspension of a monolithic volume made of exposed concrete. This strictly prismatic shell contains the private bedrooms of the dwelling.

Specially designed aluminum flyscreens regulate the exposure of the delicate interior to the exterior. By elevating the shell, the ground floor is freed, allowing it to seamlessly merge with the outdoors. Stone elements anchor and visually lighten the concrete volume while organizing the interstitial spaces in close connection with the courtyard and natural ground. These two seemingly contradictory spatial qualities are balanced and unified by a large interior patio, which serves as an intermediate space. It facilitates visual connectivity while providing optimal natural light and ventilation for the house’s interior.

 

Context Integration

The orientation of the plot and the architectural development along the east-west axis allow natural light to permeate and become an integral part of the spatial experience. Sunlight, at times filtered through the tall surrounding trees and at other times directed into the interior through carefully placed openings, animates the spaces and creates an almost monastic atmosphere.

Hour by hour, season by season, the ever-changing natural light transforms the sensory experience, revealing and emphasizing different elements of the architectural composition. The exposed concrete wall, paired with its linear staircase situated just below the elongated roof opening, serves informally as a sundial, marking the passage of the day for the inhabitants.

 

Central Structure

The sensual narrative of the design extends into the evening hours. Subtly underlit, the monolithic volume seems to dissolve into the starry sky, while protectively embracing the life it contains. At the heart of the dwelling, the “hearth” enhances the earthy warmth of the space. Here, inhabitants and visitors alike, as they gather and live within this “shelter,” will repeatedly rediscover, with a touch of surprise, the timeless beauty and precious value of simplicity.

Mountain retreat

The vacation home is built on a large property in the Chelmos mountains.

 

Design Philosophy

The main considerations in its design are the rocky feel of the location, and high snowfall. Comprising two stone-built volumes in a diagonal arrangement, and a third one perpendicular to the former, the building turns, seeking the warmth of the sun. The linear, main building houses the common areas, and the master bedroom. The guest suite is adjusted as a second volume in the north and can accommodate two visitors. This part of the compound protects from the northern wind, by diverting its direction, limiting the exposure of the main building.

The upper volume is perpendicular to those on the ground level, creating a covered porch in-between. This sheltered courtyard is used year-round, providing shade at summer noon, and protection during the cold winter days and nights. The project is clad in a yearlong “white cloak”, evoking the snow on the surrounding slopes, which never melts due to the cool winds.

 

Material Palette

The southeastern sides of the buildings open towards the unspoiled forest, providing unobstructed views and direct sunlight. In the interior, the discreet, timeless design, with earthy tones, wooden floors and furniture, and large openings, incorporates the light, colors, and materials of the natural landscape, creating warm, hospitable and comfortable living spaces.

 

Context Integration

The entire design development was guided by environmental awareness, leading to a home which blends seamlessly into the structure of the landscape. The building coexists with nature, leaving a minimal footprint. The extensive use of wood and stone, access to the natural soil without any ground cover, and the concealment of vehicles underground, testify to the ecological approach of the architectural proposal.

Aesthetic integration

The project involves the renovation and restoration of a single-family house in the Keramikos area, transforming it into two independent units to meet the needs of the new owners. Before the intervention, the house consisted of three distinct sections, each with its own unique character.

 

Design Challenges

The first two units of the house featured load-bearing masonry -one having a tiled roof and the other a flat roof. The third section, a later addition, had a reinforced concrete structure and housed the utility spaces, including the kitchen and bathroom. Overall, the house faced structural, aesthetic, and functional challenges: access to the service areas was cumbersome, requiring the user to pass through six consecutive rooms. Furthermore, the built-in staircase leading to the attic took up most of the inner courtyard space, restricting its functionality and obstructing natural light from reaching the interior rooms.

 

Plan Reorganization

The design approach was guided by the traditional architectural typology of the Keramikos area, where small houses are arranged around a shared internal courtyard. The reorganization of the floor plan, along with the thoughtful blend of old and new materials, preserves and highlights key elements such as the masonry and cement tile floors, enhancing both the visual and functional aspects of the residence. By dismantling the old staircase and replacing it with a new, visually lighter, metallic one, as well as introducing new openings, the courtyard is realigned with the residence. As a central, cohesive element, it organizes the surrounding spaces, allowing for better communication and natural lighting throughout the house.

 

Materials & Custom Structures

Uniform grey tiles are used for both the new interior floors and the courtyard, reinforcing the continuity between indoor and outdoor spaces and blurring the boundaries between them. Simple and functional design elements create a cohesive aesthetic across the three distinct sections of the house, while preserving its historic character.

White Ribbon

The “Riza” residence in Psilafi, situated atop the highest point of Angairia, in Paros, is a testament to the harmonious integration of contemporary design with the arid topography of the Cyclades. Its pristine white walls gracefully unfold like a geometric ribbon, delineating and enclosing the various volumes of the structure.

 

Landscape integration

The elongated side of the house benefits from a favorable southwestern orientation, granting breathtaking views of the sea and Antiparos Island. Drawing inspiration from the local vernacular architecture of the “katikies”, which exhibit a unique character influenced by the rugged terrain, this design assembles a series of architectural arrangements into a cohesive whole, irrespective of their distinct purposes such as dwellings, storage spaces, or stables.

Reinterpreting the essence of these vernacular clusters into a modern, liberated form, the house’s design manifests as a white ribbon that emerges organically from the ground, gracefully embracing the surrounding landscape.

This approach results in a multi-faceted structure that seamlessly adapts to the undulating terrain, with interconnected courtyards at different levels, all oriented towards the mesmerizing vistas. By emphasizing the integration of outdoor spaces, the design seeks to create a distinctive residential compound that pays homage to Cycladic architecture.

 

Circulation route

The house’s layout encompasses communal areas such as the kitchen, dining, and lounge spaces, along with three ensuite bedrooms. Additionally, a guest house, intentionally detached from the main volume to ensure privacy, is also incorporated. Both the guest house and the primary building feature strategically positioned openings.

Those seamlessly connect the interior with the exterior, facilitating the expansion of living spaces into sheltered courtyards during the summer months, shielded from the northerly winds. The concept of the ribbon is further evident in the seamless flow of movement between the living quarters and the roof area. Upon descending the main flight of steps, guests are guided through an entrance courtyard flanked by a combination of white and stone retaining walls, reminiscent of the vernacular drystone construction. From here, one can choose to enter the main building, proceed towards the guest house guided by a captivating water feature, or venture onto the roof to savor panoramic views of the Aegean Sea.

 

Material aesthetic

An intriguing aspect of the composition lies in the diverse sizes and heights of the openings, casting playful shadows on the otherwise monolithic white volume. While drawing inspiration from vernacular architecture, the building reimagines its character through a contemporary lens, embodying a modern aesthetic. In conclusion, this residence in Psilafi represents a harmonious fusion of contemporary design principles with the Cycladic landscape, showcasing a refined architectural expression that pays homage to the region’s vernacular heritage while embracing a contemporary spirit.

Dialogue with the city

In the developing area of Makedonitissa, a new two-story residence that includes a basement and swimming pool introduces a modern design concept for urban living.

 

Design Morphology

The project aims to emphasize the dynamic interplay between privacy and transparency, providing an immersive residential experience. Situated on a plot of land with a steep uphill slope, the building turns the challenging topography into a design advantage. The façade is characterized by a tall, perforated wall that enhances privacy and security, facilitating a dialogue between public and private spaces and clearly defining the residence’s boundaries.

 

Spatial Configuration

On the ground floor, the interior layout provides rich visual experiences and seamless connections to the outdoor areas. A spacious atrium, located at the heart of the residence, serves as a central axis that functionally and visually connects the staircase, living area, and dining spaces. This design fosters a sense of openness and brightness, promoting social interaction and visual continuity with the surrounding environment. The infinity pool, positioned near the perforated wall, introduces an impressive aesthetic dimension and creates an atmosphere of tranquility and relaxation, establishing unique views that enrich the residents’ experience. On the first floor, three en-suite bedrooms are strategically positioned to maximize the plot’s uphill slope, providing panoramic views of the city. The integration of these spaces into the natural topography achieves an impressive and functional configuration.

 

Material Selection

The residence’s materiality is based on earthy tones and high-quality textures: white oak, marble patterns and concrete become the dominant textures, combining modern aesthetics with warmth and elegance and creating an intimate and harmonious environment that compliments the urban fabric.

Reverse trajectories

The 370m2 residence’s architectural form follows two existing walls with reverse trajectories, with the aim to guide the user into a dynamic pre-entry space that acts as a threshold between the interior and exterior.

 

Circulation Space

The design intention is to create an experiential circulation route throughout the building. Large window openings and thin dividers lead from the courtyard to the entrance, while a water feature compliments this slow sense of transition and establishes a connection with the pool and hillside view. Angular volumes and linear voids on the roof, subtly separate the open-plan spaces and allow natural light to enter the interior.

 

Spatial Organization

The communal spaces are organized around a fireplace, which acts as an element that conceals the existing structural columns. Each room is oriented towards a different section of the property: the kitchen faces a private garden to the east; the living room leads to the pool and an exterior lounge, and the master bedroom hovers over the garden. A sloped overhang provides shading, continues into the interior space and is interrupted by consecutive skylights creating beams of strong light in the living and dining space, while the kitchen, hallway and bedrooms are illuminated more subtly. The roof’s construction was one of the most challenging aspects of the design due to its size, shape and integration with the existing structure.

 

Material Palette

Parts of the façade are cladded with fiber cement panels in white color, to ensure that the residence complies to all the necessary fire regulations. In contrast, dark stone is used to clad the walls creating a sense of depth to the space and separating the vertical from the horizontal elements.

The beauty of imperfection

Located in the Bay of Korfos, on the western side of the island of Mykonos, the project is a new luxury hotel proposal focusing on authenticity and expressive simplicity.

 

Contemporary Minimalism

The design philosophy revolves around sleek, contemporary spaces interrupted by the juxtaposition of raw, unrefined materials in specific areas, offering a delightful contrast. Faithful to the concept of contemporary minimalism, colors, shapes, and textures avoid excess, leading to a balanced composition that exudes a sense of calm and serenity.

 

 

Space Planning

The hotel offers unobstructed views of the sea. The main building houses most public areas, including the reception, the lounge and the dining room, a small showroom and a bar, as well as the majority of the rooms. The more spacious rooms are strategically positioned along the building’s perimeter, while the diverse range of typologies offer varying spatial qualities and opportunities. Each room has a private outdoor area with an exclusive swimming pool or jacuzzi, depending on the level it is located. The wellness centre is situated on the second floor, separated from the other public areas.

 

 

Façade Design

The wooden façade wraps around the facilities and blends smoothly with the natural landscape. The restaurant and the communal swimming pool are nestled along the hillside, adjacent to the main building. Both the dining and the seating area face the surrounding landscape, enjoying views of the lush garden and the sea.

 

 

Natural Light

In the interior, a key element of the floor plan is the impressive atrium in the center of the building, which connects three different levels as well as organizes the various uses, creating an atmospheric play of light and shadow. The light emerges from organic-shaped holes in the ceiling and is reflected on a water surface on the ground floor, leaving an imprint along its path.