Reference point

The project’s design considers both the current state of the area and its future development. In this direction, a distinctive, contemporary architectural language is created with the aim of establishing a point of reference in the growing district of Voula.

 

Design Philosophy

The main idea is to create a double shell that envelops the building, providing the necessary privacy for users. The irregular shape of the plot and the narrow frontage on the adjacent streets, with large sides located at the plot boundaries, determine a need for private spaces while preserving a sense of continuity with the uncovered neighboring areas. The shell is traversed by a sparse perforation, contributing to the natural lighting of the interior of the building while ensuring the necessary privacy where needed. The perforations are clad with robust semi-transparent glass elements that create interesting reflections inside. The curved slabs, with their slight rotation, give the impression of a not-so-compact volume, offering intriguing shadows and different visual perspectives from the balconies.

Bioclimatic Strategy

In pursuit of sustainable development, local climate features were incorporated into the design. Water surfaces and green areas play a central role in creating a microclimate for residents and the neighborhood. On the ground floor, the designed shallow pond, with irregular islands and a swimming tank, is part of the approach. This composition, combined with the planting of gardens with interesting varieties of tall trees, creates a harmonized natural climate of coolness and tranquility at the entrance level, which extends to the surrounding neighborhood.

 

 

Custom Elements

On the balconies, green spaces are created, adding to the aesthetic quality of the exterior arrangement, and contributing to bioclimatic design. The perforated pergola on the roof level, acting as a filter, serves as an additional architectural element that creates ideal conditions for shading and ventilation, enhancing the aesthetic and functional character of the space.

 

Inclined tower

The project is located along the coastline of Limassol, 9 km east of the city center. Rising to a height of 50m, it consists of luxury apartments offering a 180° sea view. The construction of the building required the study and supervision of specialized consultants and contractors due to its large cantilevers, which gradually shift and extend away from the building’s core on the ground floor.

 

Design Philosophy

Each floor is displaced by 1.5m to maximize the orientation and create expansive, both covered and uncovered, south-facing verandas with views of the sea. This displacement results in the building sloping at an angle of over 20°, presenting unique technical challenges regarding the structure, vertical circulation, mechanical and electrical systems, and security. At the same time, it defines the building’s key feature, transforming it into an iconic landmark.

 

 

Urban Integration

The building leans toward the road and the urban landscape. On this elevation, behind the parametric perforated sloped GRC shell, the mechanical spaces are located, functioning as a vertical buffer zone between the public and private realms.

Water Element

In the horizontal dimension of the building, at ground level and spanning 50m in length, a water element connects the interior to the surrounding environment, reaching the shore. The elongated swimming pool, entirely clad in green marble, accentuates the north-south axis that links the urban landscape with the natural one, guiding the user from the public to the private space. The pool also serves as an area for leisure, relaxation, and rejuvenation.

The design, along with the selection of natural materials, plantings, and water elements, creates a sense of balance and a deep connection to the earth, both inside and out.

 

Bioclimatic shell

The project, located next to a traffic junction in one of the busiest and noisiest areas on the outskirts of Nicosia, is a medical center that provides day-care services across multiple fields, featuring modern and specialized operating rooms.

 

Design Philosophy

The elongated plot along Tseriou Avenue, oriented north–south, made it crucial to protect the building’s spaces from western and eastern solar exposure, as well as from excessive noise. The building is organized across six levels, two of which are underground. The ground floor, aligned with the adjacent pedestrian pathways, accommodates reception and service areas, a café, various gathering spaces, and offices. Medical areas, such as operating rooms and recovery rooms, are located on the first and second floors. The basement levels include support spaces and parking, while the third level houses mechanical installations.

The ground floor maintains a direct visual connection with the surroundings, is easily and immediately accessible from the sidewalk, and is surrounded by planting and outdoor areas for rest and dining. In contrast, the first and second floors are more introverted, with selective openings designed in direct relation to the functions they serve.

 

 

Facade and Shading Strategies

On the first and second floors, the eastern, western, and southern façades incorporate large rotating shading devices integrated into the building envelope, allowing generous outward views. When closed, they block sunlight and provide near-complete blackout conditions. On the western side, fixed perforated shading elements protect two external balconies directly connected to the vertical circulation, which can be used as breakout spaces.

On the northern façade, where solar protection is not required, a green wall covers the entire surface. In the intermediate zone between the wall and the vegetation, two balconies are constructed for plant maintenance as well as for relaxation. Spaces with direct visual contact to the green wall mainly include operating rooms and recovery beds.

 

 

Spatial Organization

The internal organization of the building, while overall reflecting the need for efficiency in patient care, is enriched with internal green atria and rest areas with balconies overlooking the city. These features create a well-lit and pleasant environment for both visitors and staff.

Set within a valley at the foot of a wooded hillside, the house is embedded in a landscape often veiled in shadow, protected by both slope and vegetation. The project emerges from this chiaroscuro condition, proposing the restoration of the original structure alongside the addition of a suspended extension – an intervention defined by lightness, openness and a renewed relationship with the surrounding environment.

 

Restoration Strategy

The existing building, a construction of notable character, has been carefully restored through a process of subtraction rather than transformation. Interior partitions and superfluous finishes were removed, allowing the spatial continuity to re-emerge while revealing the integrity of the original timber framework. Plaster coatings were stripped away, exposing the tactile qualities of stone and embedded flint, while existing shutters were cleaned and reinstated.

This approach reestablishes the house’s primary material expression and reinforces its anchoring within the Vexin landscape. The architecture does not impose a new identity but instead clarifies and amplifies what was already present, allowing the structure to reconnect with its historical and material context.

 

 

Design Philosophy

In contrast to the grounded, mineral presence of the original volume, the extension adopts a distinctly lighter architectural language. Positioned perpendicular to the existing structure, it extends beyond the shaded footprint to capture optimal sunlight. Elevated three meters above the natural terrain, the new volume engages directly with the slope and surrounding vegetation, establishing a dynamic spatial dialogue between ground and canopy.

A slender footbridge, constructed in wood and clad in polished stainless steel, connects the two volumes, framing views toward the forest while reflecting the sky. This transitional element reinforces the experiential sequence between old and new, shadow and light, enclosure and openness.

 

 

Material Palette & Structure

The extension is anchored by foundations of exposed aggregate concrete incorporating flint, establishing continuity with local construction methods and materials. Above this base rises a triangulated pine structure, articulated through a fine and rhythmic framework that defines the project’s light and elevated silhouette.

This structural system, both precise and expressive, supports an architecture that balances stability and suspension. The interplay between the restored mass and the lightweight addition generates a cohesive composition that explores contrasts – between heaviness and lightness, opacity and transparency, shadow and illumination.

Between anchoring and elevation, the project articulates a nuanced architectural response to its environment, proposing a dwelling that is both embedded in its context and open to transformation over time.

 

Radical material reuse

Trace is a transformative deep retrofit residential project located on Drummond Street in Euston, London, designed by Bureau de Change for HGG London. The scheme reinterprets a four-storey brick building from the 1980s, extending it with two additional levels and accommodating five contemporary, light-filled apartments, while preserving and repurposing the majority of the existing structure.

 

Circular Economy Principles

At the core of the project lies a rigorous commitment to circular economy principles. Rather than opting for demolition and reconstruction, the design retains the original foundations, primary structure and defining architectural elements, including the characteristic archway, thus conserving the embodied carbon of the site. A key innovation is the development of a site-specific glass reinforced concrete (GRC) composite for the façade, incorporating materials harvested directly from the existing building.

The original mid-brown bricks are crushed and reused as visible aggregate, forming a new textured cladding that reconstitutes the building envelope. This process generates a materially expressive façade that both preserves and reinterprets the building’s history, allowing traces of the past to remain legible within a contemporary architectural language.

 

 

Design Philosophy

The architectural language draws from the layered historical context of Drummond Street and Tolmer’s Square, referencing Georgian urban typologies, the legacy of Euston Station, and successive phases of 20th-century redevelopment. The façade composition is informed by Georgian proportions, rustication, and articulated arches, reinterpreted through a contemporary construction system.

Organized within a rational grid, the openings reinterpret traditional segmental arches, enabling larger window apertures that enhance daylight penetration, cross-ventilation, and spatial quality. The inclusion of winter gardens at the rear further extends the living spaces, establishing a dynamic relationship between interior and exterior environments.

 

 

Layout & Urban Integration

The completed development comprises three two-bedroom apartments across the lower levels and two one-bedroom units on the newly added upper floors, each offering skyline views and access to outdoor terraces. The internal layouts are structured around double-aspect living spaces arranged in a stepped configuration, subtly organizing kitchen, dining, and living areas without rigid partitioning.

Aligned with the ambitions of the Euston Area Plan, the project promotes sustainable urban intensification while enhancing the character of the surrounding area. By demonstrating how existing structures can be elevated through adaptive reuse and material innovation, Trace positions itself as a model for low-carbon residential development within the contemporary city.

 

Highlighting the grid

The OTE Headquarters in Athens is the realized architectural study of a multi-storey office building, star-shaped in plan, based on the proposal that was awarded second prize among twelve selected entries. The project concerns the renovation and reconstruction of office and communal spaces from the 2nd to the 13th floor; a decision made in 2019 within the framework of modernization and energy upgrading of the building envelope.

 

Building history and structure

The construction of the original volume began in 1974, with several modifications to the initial plans, while the building was ultimately put into operation in the 1980s, consolidating all services of the “Hellenic Telecommunications Organization.” On a plot of 52 stremmas, a building with a total floor area of 65,000m² was developed.

The new proposal for the interior layout of the office spaces followed the structural grid of the existing shell. The superstructure consists of three rectangular wings, connected through a central circular core of vertical circulation. Each of the 13-storey wings was designed on a vertical structural grid of 1.25×1.25 m, expressed on the façades through external, non-structural, horizontal and vertical reinforced concrete panels. A similar approach is applied to the circular core, where the panels are exclusively vertical and arranged in a radial configuration. Each wing was “divided” into three longitudinal zones, each corresponding to six openings of 1.25m, resulting in a total width of 7.50m per zone.

 

 

Functional organization

In this way, alternative work modules were developed in full correspondence with the building’s structural grid. In the two lateral zones of each wing, both open-plan and enclosed office spaces were arranged, along with dedicated meeting rooms. In these areas, which benefit from natural light and unobstructed views, the arrangement of workstations in two groups of four creates a maximum unit of eight workstations.

The four corner zones of each wing were enclosed with fixed partitions, accommodating special uses, alternating between executive offices, workspaces, collaboration areas, meeting rooms, relaxation zones, creative spaces, rest areas, and spaces for employee retreat.

Movable, flexible, or fixed partitions for integration, repetition, or separation can accommodate – with mechanical precision – all possible conditions of flexibility, functionality, and adaptability. In the central zone, aligned with the structural grid, meeting rooms, sanitary facilities, and support spaces are developed.

 

 

Design Interventions

These include meeting rooms and areas, WCs, a closed kitchen, printing and copying rooms, semi-open meeting booths for private discussions, and open communal spaces for gathering and relaxation. A significant portion is occupied by the existing central core, which houses MEP spaces and the emergency staircase, while a dedicated project/meeting room at the top level, along with the distinctive design and material selection of the entrance area, complete the central zone.

The primary function of the central circular core is circulation and communication, and secondarily, it accommodates auxiliary uses such as WCs and storage areas. Interventions were kept to a minimum, focusing on the refinement of existing material finishes or the localized addition of new ones, the redesign of lighting and ceilings, and the introduction of custom constructions and selected furniture pieces in the radial, curved areas for rest or breaks between the wings.

In one of these areas, the open food service space (cafeteria) was fully upgraded according to specifications, with new elements, lighting, and equipment. Similarly, the WCs were upgraded through the replacement of partitions, claddings, and sanitary fixtures.

 

 

Material Palette

Key parameters in the process of design, selection, and application methods of materials were compliance with the requirements of LEED and WELL Building Standard certification systems.

The construction materials follow the logic of a central design strategy, with consistent choices in flooring, acoustic ceilings, and lighting, combined with numerous variations in claddings, textures, colors, subtle tonalities, material qualities, and furniture equipment. In this way, each wing and floor forms a distinct yet unique visual identity, resulting in a cohesive compositional and aesthetic outcome aligned with the new concept of the study.

The architectural design of the new interior layouts of the headquarters, along with its subtle visual differentiation on the façade (through the replacement of aluminum frames), completes its aesthetic identity, fully implementing the requirements of certification systems, while respecting the existing shell and reinforcing the building’s established presence in the urban consciousness of a major organization.

 

Biophilic design

The company’s offices, belonging to a global leader in the food industry, have been fully renovated, transitioning from a traditional layout to a biophilic, innovative work environment. Moving away from the conventional closed-office typology, the new space adopts a variety of scenarios. Centered around an open plan logic, the design introduces flexibility, enabling the creation of spaces that support diverse modes of collaboration.

 

Design Philosophy

Materials assume a defining role, shaping atmospheres that encourage a sense of engagement – an essential catalyst for fostering creativity. At the same time, sustainability is embedded as a key component, aligned with the company’s philosophy throughout the entire design process. Upon entry, the reception area conveys a welcoming character, with soft, curved wooden lines that gently embrace the Nestlé logo. Elements such as marble and an olive tree are incorporated to reinforce local identity, while the material and color palette subtly reference local brands. The company’s values are dynamically communicated through an LED wall that adjusts its lighting according to the time of day.

The overall design is organized around a layout accommodating approximately 50–60 workstations per floor, complemented by alternative work areas tailored to the needs of different departments. The workspace prioritizes the open plan concept and the diffusion of natural light through perimeter openings, minimizing visual barriers. At the center of the design lies the “core” – a closed, dynamic form that defines Nestlé’s new era while hosting a variety of functions across distinct zones.

 

 

Spatial Organization

Collaboration rooms, focus booths, pet corners, and recreational areas respond to the diverse needs of the workplace. The aesthetic of the core, linked to the motto “Growing Tree of Good Life,” aligns with the company’s work strategy, while relaxation areas and soft corners distributed throughout the layout promote a sense of comfort, facilitating dialogue and collaboration.

At the main entrance of each floor, a lounge meeting point welcomes visitors, functioning as a flexible space for waiting, relaxation, or informal meetings. Adjacent to it, the “Amphitheater” – inspired by Greek sculptural architecture – offers the possibility of large-scale open gatherings for idea exchange, combining physical presence with technology. Thematic leisure areas on each level act as landmarks that embrace the brand represented by each floor. The meeting room on the north side draws inspiration from the deep blue of the Aegean, symbolizing the dynamism of technology as a medium for next-generation communication and collaboration. Descending to the semi-basement level, users encounter the restaurant, which operates as a space for dining, meetings, or assemblies.

 

 

Materiality & Sustainability

Aiming to support this multifaceted narrative, the restaurant is equipped with flexible furniture that allows for alternative configurations, while plants, in combination with the surrounding outdoor environment, complete the design.

Across the project, 90% of the flooring consists of recyclable materials, wall claddings are made from natural materials such as wood and cork, and acoustic panels are constructed from recycled plastic bottles.

Sustainability lies at the core of the design, with each floor featuring dedicated recycling points for waste separation. The office is also pet-friendly, the first of its kind in Athens, featuring pet corners and a dedicated check-in/check-out system for companion animals.

 

Constellation of volumes

An existing 40-year-old office building is stripped back to its primary structure and comprehensively reinterpreted to respond to contemporary workplace demands. The initial massing logic is recovered and clarified, transforming what was once a fragmented and visually inconsistent assemblage into a cohesive composition. The building is rearticulated as a constellation of twelve distinct volumes, each defined by its own cladding strategy and spatial atmosphere, establishing a new architectural identity rooted in differentiation and clarity.

 

Intervention Strategy

The intervention operates through a process of subtraction and redefinition. By removing non-essential layers, the original structural framework is revealed and reorganized, allowing the building’s inherent geometry to be legible once again. The front façade adopts a restrained material palette, articulated through subtle tonal variations of white, grey, black, and gold. A newly introduced curtain wall defines the primary elevation, while a sequence of cast-in-place terrazzo steps establishes a clear and generous entrance gesture.

In contrast, the rear elevation embraces a more expressive and playful language. Individual volumes are distinguished through color and material differentiation: a pale turquoise-clad elevator core, a striped black-and-white staircase punctuated by yellow window frames, a pink-rendered service core, and blue metal-clad office spaces. This chromatic distribution extends throughout the building, generating a dynamic interplay between interior and exterior surfaces.

 

 

Spatial Organization & Environmental Strategy

The building is reoriented to engage more directly with its adjacent natural park, introducing new openings within previously opaque façades. These interventions enhance visual connectivity while significantly improving daylight penetration, addressing the limitations of the original low ceiling heights.

At roof level, a landscaped green roof is combined with a circular pergola, forming a sequence of outdoor workspaces and social areas. These elevated spaces accommodate informal gatherings, events, and moments of exchange, extending the program beyond the conventional office environment.  

Sustainability is integrated as a core design parameter. The project incorporates high-performance insulation systems, energy-efficient glazing, locally sourced materials, and low-energy mechanical systems. Additional features include photovoltaic panels, electric vehicle charging stations, and bicycle parking, contributing to the building’s A+ energy efficiency rating.

Material Palette

The interior design negotiates between preservation and transformation. Existing black marble flooring is restored, while suspended ceilings are removed to expose the raw concrete structure and its irregular formwork. This juxtaposition of refined and unfinished surfaces establishes a consistent material language across all levels.

Each floor is further differentiated through bespoke architectural elements and furniture interventions. These range from sculptural marble seating installations to a vivid red perforated metal library and expansive shared worktables. On the ground floor, a generous red terrazzo staircase operates simultaneously as circulation and as an amphitheatrical space for events, linking to a luminous mezzanine above.

 

LG Electronics (LG) is presenting its full range of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) solutions at the Mostra Convegno Expocomfort (MCE) 2026 exhibition in Milan, Italy, from March 24 to 27. LG’s latest residential and commercial solutions – including its iF Design Award 2026-winning air-to-water heat pump indoor units – are designed to meet Europe’s accelerating electrification trends and diverse installation environments.

 

Enhanced Domestic Hot Water Solutions Designed for European Homes

LG has strengthened its residential heating portfolio with an expanded range of solutions specifically designed for European households. This lineup includes the Therma V™ Monobloc S, an all-in-one system using R290 refrigerant, which can be combined with a buffer tank, domestic hot water tank, and controller to create a high-performance, integrated solution for space heating and hot water supply.

At MCE, LG is also showcasing its new indoor units for air-to-water heat pump systems. The Control, Hydro, and Combi Units feature refined, premium designs that blend seamlessly with most interiors and include a 6.8-inch color touchscreen for intuitive control. The Combi Unit supports space heating, cooling, and domestic hot water, while the Hydro Unit simplifies installation with front access and a bracket-type mounting system. The Control Unit features integrated heating control logic, reducing the need for additional components.

Each unit has a compact design for flexible placement and is equipped with Wi-Fi and LG ThinQ technology, enabling remote monitoring, simplified commissioning, and easy system management.

LG’s residential water heater range for Europe includes both heat pump and electric models, catering to various installation conditions and hot water needs. The heat pump water heater uses R290 – a refrigerant with a low global warming potential (GWP) – to reduce environmental impact, while LG’s electric water heaters deliver strong performance along with improved durability and hygiene.

In addition, MCE attendees can explore LG’s range of indoor units, including wall-mounted, console, and floor-standing models. The fan coil units (FCUs), adapted to local conditions, offer flexible solutions and support efficient integration into Europe’s diverse installation environments. For smart home connectivity, LG introduces a gateway compatible with the Electric Energy Bus (EEBUS) standard, enabling intelligent energy control and broader compatibility with smart grids.

 

Residential Air Conditioning: Comfort and Convenience Powered by AI

LG’s residential air conditioner lineup, including the DUALCOOL™ AI, ARTCOOL™ AI, and ARTCOOL™ Gallery models, delivers personalized comfort through intelligent AI-based control.

These advanced models utilize LG’s AI Air™ technology, which analyzes usage patterns and indoor conditions to precisely adjust airflow direction, speed, and temperature. Maintenance is made easier with accessible filter systems and efficient internal cleaning functions. LG ThinQ connectivity allows users to remotely control their air conditioners, manage energy consumption, and monitor indoor air quality.

 

Advanced HVAC Solutions for Commercial Applications

For the commercial sector, LG offers a complete portfolio of integrated solutions prioritizing efficiency, safety, and scalability. The redesigned Multi V™ i VRF system ensures intelligent and efficient operation using low-GWP R32 refrigerant. It also incorporates robust refrigerant safety measures, including sensors that trigger automatic protective responses in case of leaks, ensuring operational continuity and safety.

In collaboration with Hoval, a leading European manufacturer of air handling units (AHUs), LG will showcase the expanded connectivity capabilities of the Multi V i system. The combination of LG’s VRF system and Hoval’s AHUs delivers a high-performance solution suitable for a wide range of commercial environments.

Designed to simplify system management, the LG ACP i controller features an intuitive, AI-enhanced interface that facilitates efficient facility control and provides accurate energy consumption analysis.

LG’s Inverter Scroll Chillers / heat pumps offer modular scalability, making them ideal for large-scale applications. Multiple units can be combined for higher capacity, ensuring efficient coordination and stable performance across the system.

“LG is committed to delivering comprehensive HVAC solutions tailored to European installation environments, climate conditions, and energy standards,” said James Lee, President of LG ES Company. “Through continuous innovation, we are shaping excellence in HVAC systems in Europe—and worldwide—with solutions that are efficient, intelligent, and future-ready.”

LG welcomes visitors to MCE 2026 and invites them to explore its latest HVAC innovations for residential and commercial applications at booths #5U29 and #5Z22 at Fiera Milano.

 

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Notes:

• The energy efficiency rating is A+++/A++ at temperatures of 35/55 degrees Celsius.
• The R290 refrigerant has a GWP of 0.02, while R32 has a GWP of 675, according to EU Regulation 2024/573 (IPCC 6th Assessment Report).
• The LG ARTCOOL AI is available in a range of matte and glossy finishes.
• LG Inverter Scroll Heat Pump Chillers feature a modular design with a 105 kW unit. Product configurations can consist of 105/210/315 kW and are expandable up to 1890 kW (6 units).

Kerakoll acquires strategically significant industrial property in Schimatari for the development of a new production hub for Southeast Europe

Kerakoll Group, an international leader in sustainable building and a certified B Corp company, is strengthening its presence in Greece through the acquisition of an industrial and logistics facility in the Schimatari area.

With a total surface area of 12,500 sq.m. and 4,300 sq.m. of built facilities, the new property will be transformed into a modern production unit and will serve as the core of an integrated Kerakoll industrial hub for Southeast Europe.

The investment forms part of the Group’s long-term strategy to develop advanced industrial, research, and supply chain infrastructures in Greece. Following its full upgrade, the facility will support new product lines, increase production capacity, and optimize logistics operations, improving delivery times, operational flexibility, and overall business continuity.

The new hub will further strengthen the role of Kerakoll Hellas as a strategic partner for construction companies, industry professionals, and technically demanding projects. At the same time, it will create high-quality local employment opportunities and contribute to the development of technical expertise in the region. Sustainability remains a core priority, with interventions focused on energy efficiency, smart resource management, and practices aimed at reducing environmental impact, fully aligned with the Group’s B Corp commitment to generating positive impact for communities, society, and the environment.

“This strategic move reinforces the future growth of Kerakoll Hellas and confirms Greece’s role as a hub for Southeast Europe. Guided by our purpose — ‘to bring together people with passion and creativity to build better places to live’ — we continue to invest, creating long-term value for society, the economy, and the environment,” stated Zisis Koulaxidis, Regional Director South East Europe.

Geometric elements

Built amidst fields of wheat, the house is defined by the geometric treatment of three natural elements: Earth, water, and light. The composition becomes a sequence of different impressions throughout the day, and the poetics of space creates a detachment from the environment, as a layout raised above the landscape.

 

Design Philosophy

At once, a home, and imagery: the former attribute is experienced practically, and the latter becomes the source of ideas. One layout and one clear line, diagonally traced upon a simple volume, define the building. It is an elongated volume of bare concrete, placed in-between the ground and the sky. Its elegant character is described in simple lines, uniting and dividing.

The floor-to-ceiling opening maintains proportions which allow an unobstructed sky view. The building volume is subtracted from the soil, creating a seamless flow of open air space beneath – a gesture further accentuated with the water axis, perpendicular to the building.

 

 

Façade Morphology

The shell is introverted, with only a few incisions on its surface, and the dominant bare concrete is complemented with a screen of perforated, folded bronze shades. Contact with the outside remains at the disposition of the inhabitant. Each idea requires a practical application. The living experience is entirely introverted, with the materiality of concrete enforcing this impression. The bold gesture at the entrance -an oversized prism which absorbs a disproportionate part of the whole- acts as a bridge to the interior, with its geometry and size underlining the distance between public and private.

 

 

Materials & Sustainability

Incisions are few, and precise: one opening at the kitchen looks downwards; one light well at the end of the corridor accentuates a sculpture in space, and marks arrival. At the entrance prism, a vertical aperture is juxtaposed to the incision of the kitchen; as a result, each afternoon, a strip of light crosses through. Those elements are brought into a marked contrast with the other two faces of the volume, where the wall is expressed as absence.

The shading device is also a mechanism, a filter in an environmental approach. The ample height of the spaces alludes to vernacular architecture, where the large air volume stabilizes interior temperature. The thermal mass of the walls adds to this effect. The tectonic shell of the project wraps this interior in an austere line, without any superficial gestures.

 

Urban recovery

The architectural proposal for the adaptive reuse of the iconic Mínion department store in the center of Athens posed a significant challenge, as the restoration of its extensive, abandoned shell became an opportunity for a design approach with a clear narrative and morphological intent.

 

Design Philosophy

The central design idea interprets the historical layering of the urban block, shaped over time by the gradual consolidation of different properties during its operation as a department store. The selection of a three-color palette for the façade’s functions symbolically, subtly alluding to the composition of the individual buildings. In this way, the project establishes a dialogue with the surrounding urban fabric, expressed through a distinctly rationalist and understated rhythm.

Particular emphasis was placed on redesigning the base of the building. Through a pronounced shift in architectural language and typology, the arcades along the street frontage were shaped with arches, evoking a more commercial and urban Athens of the past. The varying geometry of the openings responds to the existing structural framework, preserving the building’s constructional identity.

 

 

Functional Organization

The new “double” envelope consists of two layers: the inner one is organized through the rhythm of the openings to maximize natural daylight, while the outer one is formed by a grid of colored metal shading panels. The composition draws references from Athenian rationalism, modernism, and the city’s neoclassical heritage, adding depth and a three-dimensional expression. The engraved “Mínion” logo, carved into the marble cladding, marks the building’s renewed identity with respect for its past.

 

 

Bioclimatic Design

Bioclimatic principles inform the entire project. More than 97% of the load-bearing structure was preserved, reducing demolition and the embodied carbon footprint. Automation and management systems for lighting and climate control were implemented, achieving significant energy savings, while the use of low-emission materials enhances the building’s sustainable character. The green roof, planted with Mediterranean vegetation, improves the local microclimate. Now accommodating both commercial and office uses, and achieving an excellent environmental performance certified with LEED Gold, Mínion is reintroduced to the city not as a memory, but as an active, sustainable chapter of its urban future.

 

Dynamic facade

The project concerns the transformation of an existing shopping center on Pireos Street into a sustainable and pioneering office complex, complemented by the addition of a new, independent five-storey building. This new structure functions both as a landmark and as a catalyst for the revitalization and development of the wider area.

 

Renovation Strategy

The design is based on managing and upgrading the existing building stock, converting it into an energy-efficient structure with contemporary uses. The approach follows the principles of sustainability and the circular economy, incorporating the reuse of materials.

The existing building is characterized by pronounced contrasts -most notably the introverted external facades versus the extroverted interior. The redesign utilizes these contrasts as compositional elements, redefining the façade and generating a new architectural envelope. Through a process of subtraction and addition -two opposing yet complementary actions- the façade is reshaped, adopting the logic of the (bar)code as the central design reference. The final result resembles a linear code: a dynamic composition of voids and solids with varying dimensions.

 

New Construction Systems

This composition is formed by metal cylinders which, after a special color treatment, are repositioned in new configurations, enhancing the façade’s interaction with its environment. The system allows future adjustments to the façade based on evolving needs, making it adaptable and flexible. The arrangement of the cylindrical columns supporting the energy canopy defines the first layer of the new façade, following the rhythm and dynamism of the existing shell.

On a second level, a three-dimensional envelope made of fiber-reinforced cement board incorporates glazed surfaces within recesses, maintaining the autonomy of materials while contributing to the cohesion of the composition. The new building, located southwest of the existing one, is developed across a ground floor, four upper floors, and a green roof.

 

 

Vegetation & Sustainability

The surrounding landscape acts as a connective tissue between the two structures, while the energy canopy and supporting columns reinforce the overall unity of the complex. The intermediate outdoor space creates a transitional landscape that encourages user interaction and relaxation. Planting and carefully selected surface materials complete the architectural composition.

The green roof offers significant environmental and functional benefits: it contributes to air purification, stormwater management, reduction of ambient temperatures, and improved sound insulation. Additionally, it enhances biodiversity, boosts the efficiency of solar systems, protects surfaces from erosion, and promotes social interaction.

The project has achieved LEED Gold certification for both the existing and the new building -a distinction of particular importance in today’s context, where climate change underscores the need for sustainable, resilient, and healthy work environments.

 

Organic forms

The project’s location -along one of Limassol’s most important commercial corridors, near a major junction- set from the outset the ambition to create a landmark building for the Mesa Geitonia area.

 

Design Philosophy

This strategic position, coupled with the elongated geometry of the plot, informed the building’s distinctive massing from the very early design stages. To meet the project’s goal, the design adopts a linear, organically shaped volume that unfolds along the avenue, both asserting the presence of the complex and preserving the continuous flow and pulse of the commercial axis.

 

 

Functional Organization

The building is structured across five levels. The ground floor accommodates retail units, reflecting the commercial character of the street, while the four upper floors house office spaces that open toward the narrow façades through covered verandas. Although the primary pedestrian entry is located on Spyrou Kyprianou Avenue, the building also incorporates a two-level underground parking garage accessed via the internal road running parallel to the avenue. This underground structure provides all required parking spaces, mechanical rooms, and storage areas.

 

 

Architectural Language

The architectural expression merges a futuristic, dynamic aesthetic with fluid, organic forms. The façades alternate between metal panels and expansive glazing to maximize natural light. Cantilevers and projecting architectural elements reinforce the building’s horizontal character, while simultaneously functioning as shading devices that regulate solar exposure, enhance daylight performance, and reduce dependence on mechanical cooling.

On the narrow elevations, the shifting balance between interior space and covered verandas on each level creates a vertical, volumetric rhythm. This generates a parametric, organic pattern that imbues the building with a distinctive sense of movement, resulting in striking perspectives and visually compelling, theatrical façades.

 

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.

 

Work Container

The new offices are housed within an industrial shell of 1,200 m², where tall metal racks for cable storage dominate the space from floor to ceiling. The central design idea focuses on the strategic placement of “work containers” that accommodate the staff offices.

 

Corporate Identity & Design

The container form was chosen as a characteristic expression of the company’s industrial identity and environmental ethos. Just as the company’s products are designed to be fully recyclable, the container, originally used for their storage and transport, is repurposed and transformed into office space. Two distinct zones are created on either side of the central storage and packaging area to ensure the uninterrupted circulation of machinery and personnel.

 

 

Spatial Organization

On the west side of the building, the largest container is positioned to function as a customer waiting area and goods reception zone, along with a dispatch office, staff locker area, and archive. On the east side, a cluster of containers arranged across two levels accommodates the remaining needs of the administrative staff, positioned to ensure optimal visual connection with the production area.

On the ground floor of the eastern cluster are two sales offices, a dining room, staff restrooms, and storage. The upper level includes two offices, a meeting and presentation room, and additional storage space. Access to the offices is provided through two opposing entrances, with an internal metal staircase connecting the two floors.

 

 

Materials & Lighting

The material palette consists of metal, wood, and glass -materials commonly used in industrial environments. Metal and glass surfaces form the architectural volumes, while wood is applied in flooring and furniture to complement the construction. The exterior white and gray tones highlight the wooden finishes used inside.

Linear warm-white lighting follows the rectangular surfaces of the containers. Containers serve as a contemporary method of creating workspaces in facilities requiring direct proximity to production. With the appropriate configuration, they allow for efficient workflow while offering the possibility of expansion to meet a company’s future needs, without compromising the overall design.

 

In 2024, the Group invested in projects related to the environment and the community, with a focus on positive-impact technologies, the circular economy, and solutions that respect local economies around the world.

Through the 2024 Sustainability Report, Kerakoll outlines the progress it has achieved through a combination of vision, precise goal-setting, and concrete actions. This journey takes shape through everyday activities and is expressed in tangible plans that involve all corporate functions, creating a lasting positive impact.

For Kerakoll, the Sustainability Report is not only a reporting tool but also a guide that enables transparent communication with stakeholders and the outlining of an evolving roadmap based on listening, measurement, and continuous improvement.

As Fabio Sghedoni, Executive Vice President of the Kerakoll Group, stated: “We believe that companies have a broader responsibility that goes beyond generating profit: to safeguard the present and build a future in which growth, innovation, and respect for people and the planet can coexist harmoniously.”

The 2024 Sustainability Report is available in the Reporting section of the website kerakollgroup.com.

More information about our commitment to sustainability is available at kerakollgroup.com.

Vibrant hub

Walker Hall is an adaptive reuse of a 1927 building at the core of the University of California, Davis campus. The project transforms a vacant, seismically unsafe building into a graduate and professional student center with meeting rooms, a lecture hall, and active-learning classrooms that serve the entire campus.

 

Design Philosophy

Walker Hall exemplifies the power of revitalization by transforming an abandoned into a vibrant academic and social center. The project preserves the character of the 1927 structure while introducing modern learning environments, symbolizing continuity between the university’s history and its forward-looking academic vision.

 

 

Spatial Organization

The original two-story north wing now houses student lounges, meeting areas, and offices. The three southern wings, formerly used for agricultural engineering workshops, have been repurposed into a lecture hall and two flexible classrooms. The redesign establishes a clear hierarchy between community spaces and academic functions, ensuring seamless movement through the building.

The project supports graduate students’ academic and personal growth with spaces for mentoring, advising, and social interaction. The flexible learning rooms integrate advanced media technologies, turning former machine shops into dynamic “toolboxes” for contemporary, interdisciplinary education.

 

 

Materials & Sustainability

Original structural elements such as steel trusses, concrete columns, and finishes were retained and highlighted. New facades, solar collectors, and steel shading devices express a dialogue between the industrial heritage of the building and its new sustainable identity.

The design responds to the hot, dry climate of California’s Central Valley with shaded openings and efficient systems. The building connects to the campus through visible transparency and sustainable performance, achieving LEED Platinum certification and zero net electricity use.

 

The Sirius Masterplan is envisioned as a biophilic, climate-responsive district that brings together healing, innovation, and sustainable living within a unified framework.

 

Conceptual Approach

Conceived as an integrated medical and educational campus, the project redefines the relationship between architecture, nature, and human well-being. The design is guided by principles of natural geometry, environmental craftsmanship, and the thoughtful use of local materials -creating a built environment that behaves as a living system rather than a static development.

Within this vision, buildings, landscapes, and infrastructure are conceived as interdependent elements, forming a holistic ecosystem where architecture nurtures both the body and the mind. The district is designed to support health and learning while promoting ecological balance, encouraging a deep connection between people and the natural world.

Organic forms and curvilinear geometries characterize the spatial language, fostering a sense of fluidity and continuity throughout the site. Transparent enclosures and greenhouse structures have been employed to maximize daylight penetration and to accommodate seasonal change, ensuring comfort and adaptability in response to the Russian climate. Glass and natural materials work together to blur the boundaries between interior and exterior, creating luminous, breathable spaces that evolve with the rhythms of nature.

Rather than being conceived as a conventional masterplan, the Sirius development is understood as an evolving landscape -one where the built and the natural coexist in harmony, and where every architectural gesture contributes to the broader goal of healing, learning, and sustainable coexistence.

 

 

Prompts & Software

Bird-eyed view, award-winning mega project, architectural photography, MIR renderings, daylight rendering, sunlight, view from drone, Masterplan visualization of organic, greenhouse-inspired structures, sustainable architecture, glass structures, Natural materials: engineered timber, woven bamboo, creative landmarks, creative path, enclosed biological domes that host communal functions, workshops, plant-integrated classrooms, greenhouse-inspired structures for education, wellness, and gathering, organic forms, enclosed domes, courtyards, plaza networks visible from aerial or axonometric perspective emphasis on environmental performance, public health, education equity, and socio-economic diversity less greenery, more structured urban blocks, active edges, and mixed-use density photorealistic urban planning rendering, clear zoning colors and urban massing, location is in sochi, russia, dry landscape, low rise buildings, high resolution, no forest, taken by canon Mark V.

Created with Midjourney.

 

Collective Housing

The Illa Glòries project was conceived as a model of collective housing that prioritizes community, sustainability, and adaptability. The design aims to reinterpret the block typology of Barcelona, transforming it into a living framework where public and private domains coexist. The vision emphasizes inclusivity, ecological responsibility, and the creation of a contemporary urban identity while remaining rooted in the city’s heritage.

 

Spatial Organization

The housing complex is structured around a permeable block, where circulation routes and open spaces act as connectors rather than boundaries. The distribution of volumes frames internal courtyards and collective terraces, ensuring visual continuity and shared experiences between residents. Open galleries and common areas reinforce the sense of community while providing flexibility to adapt to evolving lifestyles.

The layout balances efficiency and diversity. Apartments are designed with modularity in mind, enabling various configurations and catering to different household structures. Shared amenities such as community rooms, rooftop gardens, and co-working spaces foster collaboration and social exchange. Circulation spaces are conceived not only as corridors but as extensions of the domestic environment.

 

Material Palette & Sustainability

The choice of materials reflects a balance between durability, economy, and environmental performance. Locally sourced brick and prefabricated concrete elements ensure robustness, while wooden details add warmth and tactility. The use of passive design strategies -such as natural ventilation, shading devices, and thermal mass- reduces energy demand, integrating sustainability at the core of the project.

 

 

Context Integration

Located in Barcelona’s Glòries district, the project strengthens the urban fabric by reactivating a site with new housing opportunities. The design maintains continuity with the city’s grid while introducing contemporary approaches that respond to current social and ecological challenges. The building not only provides homes but also fosters collective identity, anchoring itself as a catalyst for urban renewal and sustainable community living.

 

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

 

Amplified expansion

The residential complex located to the east of Limassol’s historic center introduces an alternative model of horizontal development, with references to traditional Cypriot low-rise architecture. Built around a central shared garden, the project embraces the outdoor Mediterranean lifestyle and harmoniously combines residential features with the demands of hospitality.

 

Design Philosophy

The complex consists of four distinct buildings, two of which are currently under construction. On a plot next to the Amathos River, about half a kilometer from the waterfront, Building A includes 68 units with 11 penthouse apartments, distributed across 7 levels. Buildings B and C, with five floors each, including the roof garden, house 44 and 29 units each. All three buildings are organized around a central garden and are set within a landscaped area offering privacy to the residences while providing views of the mountains to the north and the Mediterranean to the south.

 

 

Context Integration

Drawing inspiration from the maritime environment and the undulating hills along the horizon, the construction of the central Building A descends from the highest point with gentle, flat terraces on a lush landscape. Broad horizontal bands form continuous terraces surrounding the units and extend over 300m. Large covered terraces emphasize the horizontal nature of the development, minimizing the impact of the warm Mediterranean climate.

 

 

Functional Layout

Radiating pathways guide residents through the central gardens to a terrace on the middle level, featuring richly planted spaces, seating areas, and lawns, accented with olive and citrus trees. The variety of spaces offers opportunities for entertainment, informal gatherings, and contemplation, allowing the building to function more as a catalyst for creating micro-communities than a standardized residential complex.

 

Pure brickwork

The residence unfolds beneath the generous canopy of a leafy São Paulo neighborhood near Parque Ibirapuera. Designed for a family that values openness and an abundance of natural light, the 560m² residence reflects a philosophy rooted in harmony with nature and sustainable living.

 

Design Philosophy

Instead of demolishing the existing structure, the project sought to preserve and reinterpret it -reducing environmental impact while honoring architectural memory. This approach resonates with the owners’ longstanding commitment to environmental protection and animal welfare, turning the residence into both a home and a statement of values. The proximity to Parque Ibirapuera reinforces the home’s connection to urban vegetation. Existing trees were preserved, new tropical species were introduced, and the landscape was designed as a seamless extension of the architecture -transforming the house into a tranquil urban refuge.

The residence respects both the physical and cultural context of the neighborhood. The design retains original proportions and openings, subtly integrating contemporary interventions with restraint. The result is a home that enhances aesthetics and functionality without erasing its identity. By preserving the essence of the existing building and complementing it with modern architectural gestures, the project achieves a balance between conservation and innovation.

 

 

Functional Layout

The residence is organized across two volumes: a primary two-story block at the front of the lot and a secondary annex at the rear. A central courtyard connects them physically and visually, encouraging cross-ventilation and strengthening the dialogue with the garden. The annex accommodates an office and service areas on the ground floor, while the upper level houses a private guest suite, offering both comfort and seclusion. Inside the main volume, fluid social spaces promote interaction and continuity. The ground floor features luminous interiors where large, glazed openings and strategically placed skylights flood the home with daylight. A sculptural staircase commands attention at the core, guiding the eye and circulation upward.

The kitchen, dining, and gourmet areas align along a shared axis. Designed with flexibility in mind, the kitchen comprises two zones: a social area with a dining counter and a separate technical area for preparation, connected by a sliding door. The living room is defined by poetic lighting effects -circular ceiling apertures filter daylight softly, while a central fireplace anchors the space. Upper floors host the private and leisure areas. Three bedrooms occupy the first level, while the rooftop is dedicated to contemplation and relaxation. The home theater and game room extend the social atmosphere, combining daylight and intimacy.

 

 

Material Palette

The primary volume is clad in white-painted brick, evoking purity and timelessness. At key points, this brickwork continues indoors, reinforcing the dialogue between past and present. Warmth is introduced through wood details -seen in the entrance door, façade windows, rear deck, and interior millwork- that harmonize with the lush greenery.

Inside, a unified palette of monolithic flooring, stucco walls, and neutral brick details enhances spatial continuity and amplifies natural light. Bathrooms follow a similar clarity, combining terrazzo or stone floors and countertops with off-white tiles and wooden cabinetry. Furniture selections celebrate icons of modern and contemporary design. Together, these pieces curate an atmosphere of refinement, comfort, and timeless style.

 

Adaptive reuse

The subterranean residence, situated on the western side of Kea, occupies the site of a compound of old stone warehouses once used for loading goods onto boats in the sheltered bay. Following its last conversion into a restaurant, the complex has been entirely redesigned to meet the needs of tranquil summer living, protected within the earth.

 

Context Integration

Access to the property is from the higher part of the plot, through a light ramp that leads into the ground, establishing the main circulation axis. A glass pivoting door opens into an interior garden with atmospheric lighting from the ceiling, replacing the old dark kitchens. At this point, movement branches off, leading on one side to an integrated living area with a kitchen, dining room, and living room that directly connects to the courtyard through large sliding openings. On the other side, it leads to two ensuite bedrooms behind a curved stone wall with narrow, linear windows and cupolas that illuminate the service spaces. The layout is completed with a guest house adjacent to the bedrooms, featuring a separate entrance and an impressive low horizontal opening that reveals the horizon view from the bed’s height.

 

 

Landscape Design & Materials

The extensive outdoor space, bordering the sea, features a large terrace with an irregular shape following the natural rock lines, discreetly divided into separate sections. The outdoor living area, adjacent to the interior living spaces, is shaded by two tensile canopies, while a tiered path leads directly to the small beach. The area in front of the bedrooms and the guest house is landscaped with low vegetation and side accesses from the interior, hidden behind the stone wall.

Throughout the building, the dominant material is the local natural stone from the original warehouse, giving the structure the appearance of dry-stone walls interspersed with interior and exterior spaces. The floors are finished with cement in a sand color, while the extensive earthen surfaces on the terrace and roof integrate the building into the arid island landscape. Dark shades are chosen for the interior, with partition walls and ceilings painted in modern gray, black metal details and frames, and fixed furniture made of black stone and walnut.

 

 

Furniture & Sustainability

The furnishings are minimal and lightweight, in the same dark tones as the building, except for the central sofa in the living room and the guest house, which are in vibrant orange. The building harmonizes with the landscape through its organic lines, planted roof, and natural materiality. Additionally, it is equipped with an energy management system to minimize its environmental footprint and a household desalination unit to utilize its seaside location without burdening the water reserves of the fragile island ecosystem.

 

Inverse design

This grade B listed Georgian house in the Portobello Conservation Area in Edinburgh had been used as a dental practice for decades before being purchased by a young couple, keen to transform it back into a family home.

 

Renovation Strategy

The original house had historic extensions to the rear and side, resulting in a disjointed cellular layout. The previous use of the house meant that many original features had been preserved, but were hidden under layers of flooring, paint and wall coverings. The brief was to remove the incongruous additions, and restore the house to its former glory, while adding contemporary elements to create a practical and light-filled home.

 

 

Extension Strategy

The proposal features a sociable kitchen and dining space to the rear of the house with a direct connection to the back garden. To achieve this an old utility extension was removed and replaced with a highly glazed dining area on the same footprint. The room which would have been the original kitchen was enlarged by connecting it to an adjacent store, and to the new extension. An original stone floor was discovered under layers of concrete, which was carefully cleaned and re-laid. Large hardwood windows and sliding doors provide a visual and physical connection to the garden. The raised planter outside the large, fixed window, overflowing with herbs and other edibles, creates a sensation of sitting in the garden.

A ground floor shower room was created by reconfiguring the layout and raising the floor level of a previous side extension. Utility functions such as laundry, boiler and storage are concealed behind full height doors. The ensuite to the master bedroom is also concealed, accessed through the bespoke built-in wardrobe. During the renovation, many historic features, such as the original cornice to the drawing room and master bedroom, iron balustrade and stone stair and floors, were revealed and lovingly restored. Layers of commercial wall paneling, thick paints and floor screeds were carefully removed. Original shutters were reopened, fireplaces cleaned and restored, and timber paneling, skirtings and architraves repaired.

 

 

Sustainability Approach

The energy performance of the house has been improved through the discreet incorporation of thermal insulation: between floor joists, at roof level and, where no decorative cornicing existed, as an internal lining to external walls. The original sash and case windows to the front of the house were beyond repair, and were replaced with high-performance slimline double glazed sashes, carefully designed to match the original profiles. At the rear of the house the original windows have been retained, with new draught proofing.

 

Sustainable luxury

Positioned within a Mediterranean landscape, the project exemplifies a unique architectural vision that harmoniously blends Mediterranean and Oriental influences. This cultural symbiosis fosters an emotional equilibrium, enhancing the overall wellbeing of its inhabitants.

 

Design Philosophy

Designed with a holistic philosophy, the residence strikes a refined balance between wellness, sustainability, and environmental sensitivity -principles that are increasingly demanded in contemporary residential design. The architectural language is guided by efficiency and meticulous attention to detail. Materiality plays a central role, with an elegant palette of natural stone and wood creating a rich tapestry of textures and finishes. Each element -rom spatial layout to bespoke furniture- has been crafted with artisanal precision. Visual connections to the sea, surrounding nature, and the nearby golf course anchor the home in its context, while the thoughtful management of natural light ensures that every space evolves dynamically throughout the day.

 

 

Sustainability Approach

The residence offers both indoor and outdoor pools, seamlessly integrated into the landscape and architecture to enhance year-round wellbeing. Built according to Passivhaus standards, the residence employs aerothermal systems and photovoltaic panels to reduce environmental impact and significantly lower energy consumption. The integration of heat recovery ventilation further ensures optimal indoor air quality and thermal comfort.

 

 

Craftsmanship & Luxury

With a commitment to achieving near-total energy self-sufficiency, the project sets a benchmark for sustainable luxury. It is not just a house, but a living environment that embodies serenity, craftsmanship, and ecological intelligence -offering a forward-thinking model for residential architecture.

 

Meandering movement

The subterranean residence, built on a 4,700m2 plot in the rural landscape of Tinos, is located near the traditional village of Kardiani. With a total surface area of 300m2, the house is arranged entirely on one level, ensuring full accessibility throughout both its interior and exterior spaces.

 

Context Integration

The layout and architectural approach draw inspiration from the traditional settlements of Tinos, particularly their three dimensional and intricate spatial fabric. Wandering through these villages is an experience of exploration and surprise, unfolding through narrow, maze-like alleys and offering sudden glimpses of the sea and sky. This unique spatial experience served as a conceptual framework for the organization of the residence, where interior and exterior areas are arranged along a non-linear path that gradually reveals views and spaces, echoing the rhythm of discovery.

 

 

Design Philosophy

The building volume is precisely integrated into the land’s natural contours, with a primary façade oriented toward the sea. Stone walls, built using material excavated on-site, frame the exterior spaces along the front and the rear courtyard, while trees planted in the inner courtyards create a natural link between inside and outside. The roof is covered with local soil and features three large openings, allowing natural light and ventilation into the courtyards.

In the main living areas, the roof is sloped to enhance ceiling height and subtly conceal the underground nature of the structure. The floor plan is based on a strict rectangular grid, serving as a framework for dialogue with the surrounding landscape’s irregular morphology. The terrain cut is symbolically expressed through a “floating beam”, a stepped parapet that appears to emerge naturally from the ground.

 

 

Sustainable Design

The residence is built with high-performance thermal insulation that exceeds standard requirements and operates with a central energy system using a heat pump and solar collectors. The orientation of the main façade and courtyards, along with strategically placed wooden pergolas, contributes significantly to the passive shading and thermal regulation of the space. Overall, the house represents a refined example of contemporary holiday architecture; one that integrates seamlessly into its natural setting and is constructed with sensitivity toward the environment.

 

Spatial psychology

Architecture represents the most complete of all art forms. It is the precise craft of drawing meaningful lines that, once translated into walls and openings, express the intentions, passions, and aspirations of the designer. More than the act of constructing buildings, architecture creates spaces that resonate with life, culture, and the natural world. Thoughtful design should not only fulfill functional needs but also evoke emotion, provoke reflection, and enhance the well-being of its users. This philosophy is embodied in the Veterinary Hospital project, where vision, passion, and enthusiasm have materialized into a physical place.

 

Design Philosophy

The hospital’s soft, flowing exterior stands in deliberate contrast to the structured logic of its internal layout, generating a sense of harmony and intrigue. What begins as simple, static geometry- rooted in anthropological principles and spatial psychology -evolves into a dynamic interplay of curves, transforming the structure into a place animated by movement and life. These fluid forms dissolve any instinctive fear of enclosure, cultivating a sense of openness and freedom.

Rather than dominating its surroundings, the architecture rises organically from the landscape in sculptural, wave-like gestures. These curved forms blur the boundary between building and environment, appearing as living sculptures rather than a traditional medical facility. The result is not simply a building, but an alternate world -one that is joyful, mysterious, and designed with the well-being of animals at its heart.

 

 

Materials & Landscape Design

A deliberate tension between soft, organic forms and the raw strength of brutalist concrete imbues the design with both durability and aesthetic richness. Terraces and gardens are integral components, serving therapeutic functions rather than mere decoration. They provide access to light, air, and nature -key elements in the healing process for animal patients.

Internally, the spatial configuration is carefully tailored to the psychological needs of its occupants. As in human healthcare, spatial psychology is fundamental. The design ensures that various species, particularly those with natural antagonism, are accommodated with comfort, separation, and an emphasis on coexistence. Spaces for cats and dogs are organized using principles that prioritize ease, security, and emotional well-being.

 

 

Cultural Integration

This project contributes to a broader architectural renaissance in Albania -a movement toward institutions that are both intelligent and beautiful. As the country engages more deeply with the world, it faces a critical choice between rigid, ideology-driven design and a more humanistic, nature-aligned approach. Contemporary architecture too often seeks to impose itself upon the landscape, neglecting the essential truth that nature is not an external force- it is intrinsic to life itself.

The Veterinary Hospital is a seed planted for a better architectural future, one that honors Albania’s rich climate, culture, and historical context. It marks a shift from static, commemorative spaces toward living, immersive environments that invite growth, interaction, and vitality. This is not merely a facility -it is a testament to visionary thinking, artisanal skill, and a collective desire to create architecture that serves, heals, and inspires.

 

Intersecting lines

This contemporary single-family residence is thoughtfully organized along two primary spatial axes -north-south and east-west- which serve as the foundational framework for its architectural composition. These intersecting lines efficiently delineate the home’s spatial functions, ensuring a clear and purposeful layout that enhances both livability and connection with the surrounding environment.

 

Design Philosophy

At the heart of the house lies a central open core, seamlessly connected to a private garden. This pivotal space functions as a circulation hub, offering direct, independent access to each of the home’s main areas. More than just a passageway, the core acts as an architectural anchor that encourages fluid movement while dissolving the boundaries between interior and exterior. By inviting the landscape inward, it fosters a continuous and immersive spatial experience that evolves throughout the day and seasons.

 

 

Layout Organization

The daytime living zones are designed to facilitate social interaction, relaxation, and shared moments. These areas open generously to the exterior through expansive floor-to-ceiling windows, eliminating visual obstructions and framing panoramic views of the natural surroundings. The abundant natural light not only enhances the interior atmosphere but also reduces reliance on artificial lighting, reinforcing the home’s commitment to sustainability. This architectural transparency cultivates a dynamic relationship with nature, allowing the interior spaces to breathe and adapt to their environment.

In contrast, independent sleeping quarters  are strategically distributed across the residence. Each bedroom is conceived as a serene personal retreat, offering privacy, tranquility, and comfort without sacrificing coherence with the overall design language of the home. Thoughtful spatial planning ensures acoustic separation, thermal comfort, and tailored lighting conditions, further elevating the sense of sanctuary.

 

 

Context Integration

This residence exemplifies a progressive vision of contemporary architecture -one that harmoniously blends design integrity, environmental awareness, and functional precision. Through its integration with the landscape and its emphasis on spatial clarity, the home offers a refined and holistic living experience that is both rooted in context and responsive to modern lifestyles.

 

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.

 

Aluminum box

Living amidst the rapid growth of urban population and high rises in Bangkok, a critical question is raised: how can we adjust ourselves to live peacefully and privately in this speedily changed environment and lifestyles? In doing so, how can we avoid losing contact with the amenities that megacity provides us and accessibility to the greenspace?

 

Design Philosophy

The project proposes an alternative design solution to mitigate this urban-dwelling problematic issue by crafting the home-office buildings called “THE Haute”, a self-sustainable workplace and residence, to become a new solution concept for the next generation of housing development in Thailand.

The building concept is begun with simple idea as stacked boxes, between black stone box and aluminum box. These boxes are composed of 2 main functions as the working space and living space. The openable windows are designed for not facing each other, for reasons of privacy.

 

 

Sustainability Approach

The sustainable environmental design aspects are considered thoroughly with the private oasis concept which responds directly to tropical climate of Bangkok. All units are designed with the concept of living by nature, borrowing the green space from the neighbor’s view without compromising privacy. The key design concept is to create a 5-storey residence that gives the “Private Oasis” that shares the green space in vertically to the community and city. The trees are placed at every possible space in the building, creating a natural green character for the building envelope. While the project is designed to maximize both the usable area and the open space of the green area, their spatial relationship maximizes ventilation and openness in response to tropical climate. The internal spaces are designed to enjoy their own private garden.

 

 

Façade Design

The facades of the living spaces and bedrooms maintain a signature façade design: using the air gap and aluminum panels to relieve the house from being heated as well as allowing sunlight and air ventilation to pass through. The facade acts as an insulation protecting solar heat gain from outside which is a high concern in tropical climates. When measuring the temperature during summer season, these panels help cooling down the 39 degrees Celsius outside to 26 degrees inside. This façade also provides privacy by blocking the view from outside. The design provides full privacy in this dense surrounding while also being a prominent landmark of this neighborhood.

 

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.

 

Modular assembly

Designed to meet the demands of today’s lifestyle, the proposal blends sophisticated, sustainable design with the flexibility to be delivered and assembled anywhere in the world -from secluded mountain escapes to vibrant urban backdrops.

 

Modular Construction

The project sets a new standard in modular architecture, showcasing an innovative flatpack design that combines striking beauty with exceptional functionality. Built to harmonize with any environment, each cabin is expertly assembled by quality craftsmanship.

 

 

Cabin Typologies

The cabin collection is available in a thoughtfully curated range of sizes and configurations, tailored to accommodate a wide variety of uses -from saunas and artist studios to fully self-contained living spaces for homeowners and hotels: Small 2.5m x 2.5m Perfect for saunas or compact studios, medium 2.5m x 5m Ideal for studios, saunas, or single room sleep cabins, large 5m x 5m Spacious enough for studios or fully self-contained accommodation cabins and finally, XL 5m x 7.5m Designed for gyms or larger self-contained accommodation cabins.

 

 

Material Palette & Assembly

Each cabin features the signature charred timber cladding, expansive glazing, and a striking pitched roof. Constructed from sustainably sourced materials, the cabins rest lightly on the land while their airy interiors provide a sense of openness and tranquility. They are engineered for quick and efficient assembly, completed within days of delivery. Additionally, optional furniture packages are available, blending function and beauty for a turnkey solution.

 

The jungle in the building

This study focuses on transforming an abandoned urban structure into a dynamic workplace for a group of young, extroverted, curious, and bold engineers.

 

Design Philosophy

This design aims to meet work-related needs as well as stimulate the senses and foster extraordinary interactions among team members and their clients. The concept is simple: “Let’s bring the jungle into the building.” At the office entrance, a circular feature is created, adorned with tropical plants such as Strelitzia nicolai, Howea forsteriana, Beaucarnea, and Asparagus setaceus, complemented by natural rocks.

A fully automated system integrates drip irrigation and dimmable artificial lighting to ensure optimal plant preservation and growth. The cooling effect of plant evaporation, combined with the earthy scent of moistened soil, evokes the sensation of being immersed in nature, guiding users into an environment that feels refreshing and serene.

 

Functional Layout

The main workspace, elevated within a striking wooden “box,” serves as a focal point, clearly defining the axes of movement and separating the auxiliary work and meeting areas. At the same time, it incorporates secondary functions within the storage space below. A monochromatic yellow folie jaune creates a cinematic atmosphere, framing a micro-dwelling that includes a kitchen, bathroom, and bed.

 

Lighting & Atmosphere

The interaction between the user and the lighting shapes the size and intensity of shadows, continuously altering the observer’s perceived images. Through shifting viewing angles, the observer uncovers new connections between the perpetual symmetry of shapes and light.

A modern workplace should transform work from a tedious necessity into a creative endeavor, fostering not only productivity but also social interaction and communication. Whether it’s a basketball challenge, a party with friends, or a film screening, the space adapts to inspire both collaboration and enjoyment. In this architectural narrative, a resourceful and highly imaginative turtle, “Odysseus” (Testudo graeca Linnaeus), takes center stage, adding a playful and symbolic touch to the environment.

Visual dialogue

The 7,000 m² residence is situated on a unique forest plot bordered by a river on both sides. This natural environment creates a sense of complete privacy, akin to being on an island.

 

Design Philosophy

This project explores new ways to integrate organic forms into contemporary private architecture. The concept of smooth, wavy roofs serves as a metaphor for the movement of water, resembling a natural cascade. This dynamic roofing design defines the boundary between private and public spaces, ensuring privacy while protecting the bedrooms and bathrooms from external views, all while maintaining a visual dialogue with the surrounding landscape. Fully panoramic glazing emphasizes the transparency and openness of the residence’s interior, creating a powerful fusion between interior and exterior.

 

Roof Design

A notable feature of the project is the sculptural roof made of natural slate. Its geometry and materials are inspired by the natural context, reflecting the soft lines of the riverbanks and the smooth contours of the landscape. The spatial structure of the residence is built on principles of openness and integration. The building is conceived as a single volume rather than being divided into separate blocks, enhancing the overall architectural integrity.

 

Context Integration

The central courtyard, which preserves existing pine trees, serves as a key compositional element. The design aimed to protect these trees while also integrating the natural landscape as much as possible into the living space. The panoramic glazing allows the natural surroundings to be perceived as an extension of the interior, making it an integral part of everyday life.

Disjointed architecture

The project involves the construction of a small preschool catering to children aged 0-6, as part of a larger initiative to revitalize a school complex in Macerata, in the district of Sforzacosta. With the aim of turning contextual constraints -such as a small plot of land and tight construction timelines -into opportunities, the project adheres to simple typological and construction characteristics.

 

Design Philosophy

The new building takes shape through a system of seemingly disjointed solids and voids, connected by a large, pitched roof that defines the footprint of the school and creates a series of threshold spaces between indoor and outdoor environments. The arrangement of three small, independent, and separate volumes, housing classrooms, offices, and facilities, creates a sequence of spaces with varied forms and proportions. The result is a porous system that seamlessly integrates with the garden through oblique views facilitated by changes in the roof section. The articulation of spaces becomes evident at transitional junctures, where the seamless flow between environments is highlighted. Within these “intermediate” spaces bridging the classrooms, various architectural elements -such as a striking portal, a skylight illuminating a double-height area, and a solitary column- emerge as focal points, inviting exploration and discovery due to their deliberate placement and size.

 

 

Spatial Layout

The building accommodates spaces for welcoming families, children, teachers, and educators, along with a music workshop, a sensory workshop for exploring smells and tastes, and a library. Within the same area, children can also share mealtime, as the facility is equipped with a fully functional kitchen. The structure is made entirely of wood. The walls of the internal volumes, as well as the entire façade perimeter, constitute the vertical structures constructed using the platform frame system. The transparency of the facades allows for the regular rhythm of the vertical supports to be visible from the outside. The setback of the facade, resulting from the rotation of the volumes, creates generous covered spaces that also contribute to the passive functioning of the building. Constructed with entirely recyclable materials, the project has a near-zero energy impact.

 

 

Social Impact

The new preschool is part of the school redevelopment project in Sforzacosta, stemming from a competition held in 2022. It’s a facet of an initiative led by the ABF Andrea Bocelli Foundation in collaboration with the Municipality of Macerata, aimed at addressing the shortage of educational spaces in the area. The project, comprising several phases, witnessed the completion of the preschool in 2023. The next phase involves the completion of the Educational Hub, which includes the renovation of primary school buildings and the gymnasium in 2024.

 

 

The nidus

The 410m² house is the result of the convergence between architectural creativity, energy efficiency design, and the passive house model in Greece.

 

Functional Layout

The building is located in Kalamata, inside an extensive olive grove, which is a pocket of nature enclosed within a rapidly growing part of the urban fabric. The street front is treated with a hard limit, acting as a visual barrier to the interior, moving from the city to the domestic, natural environment. All service areas were lined along this limit, and their northern orientation proved beneficial to the passive building requirements. In this framework, the main living areas enjoy the southern orientation from large openings, tempered with necessary eaves, which regulate incoming solar radiation according to the seasonal requirements of the Greek climate.

 

Architectural Forms

The geometric structure of the building features three irregular horizontal zones. The base, containing the basement, the outdoor spaces, and the swimming pool, appears like a geological formation of rough, untreated stone, becoming a socle to support the consecutive levels of the building. The middle level, on the ground floor, is shaped into an extensive, off-white volume with characteristic openings which evoke a typical house by means of their morphology; the latter, however, are subverted by functional voids contained within. Ultimately, the crowning of the building is materialized in a perforated veil, embracing the private spaces of the house on the upper level like a nest (nidus), perched upon the hard building volumes.

 

Interior Configuration

The domestic functions are distributed on the three levels as following: Service uses on the basement, including a cinema room, playroom, utility room, and storage; semi-public uses on the ground floor, which accommodates the living areas and the guest house; finally, private rooms on the upper level, with bedrooms, bathrooms, laundry, and bedroom balconies enjoying the view over a lush green area with the castle of Kalamata in the background. Living areas are arranged in an open plan and the different uses are demarcated with a change in the floor material, or with freestanding separating volumes, like the centrally positioned fireplace and the kitchen island. Volumetrically, a game of wooden volumes against the white socle contains functional spaces like the guest WC, wardrobe, and high kitchen cabinets.

 

Sustainability Strategy

The motif of “branches” is encountered throughout, as a reference to nature and to the nest, creating a marker of identity and an integrated aesthetic along spaces with a different function. Oversize openings enhance the contact with the environment and have a beneficial impact upon the house’s interior climate, providing heat during the winter months, and keeping out solar radiation during the summer, when the sun is higher, with the aid of adequately dimensioned eaves and balconies. Combined with proper insulation and an airtight envelope, energy waste between indoor and outdoor spaces is eliminated, and comfort, at once visual, thermal, and functional, is achieved, contributing to the feel of a nest in its non-visual aspects.

Connected workspace

The Serena Williams Building -a workplace for 2,750 occupants at 93,000m2 – is the largest structure at Nike World Headquarters.

 

Project Challenges

Beyond its sheer scale, the project presented three principal challenges: creating a new prototype for a design-focused workspace that fosters chemistry and collaboration on an enormous scale; leveraging regenerative principles to design for both the site and the building occupants; and finally, capturing the ethos of sport, Nike’s heritage, and the spirit of Serena Williams, the ultimate warrior-muse and the building’s namesake.

 

 

Interior Layout

The office space consists of four parts: an underground parking garage and loading dock; a merchandising center for prototype retail spaces, integrated design studios for multiple product categories and a 12-story tower with shared amenities for the campus. Integral to the design is the concept of flow i.e., a fluid design strategy that is both efficient and enlightened. By creating gathering spaces in a variety of scales, the building fosters connectivity, organized around the principle that all brand designers occupy a single level, while the services stack vertically between levels. This particular layout allows products to move from sketch to prototype to final design to retail fixture all under one roof.

 

Landscape Design & Materials

In its former life, the building site contained a parking lot and an access road to an adjacent building, all next to a beautiful wetland that is currently disjointed from the main campus. In order to connect the natural landscape more efficiently, the existing access road is buried lower into the ground, minimizing the visual presence of cars and trucks, while each of the building’s wings feature green roof terraces that overlook the wetland. Finally, stormwater is also collected and returned to the wetland, while energy efficient mechanical systems include displacement ventilation and radiant sails. Courtyards, gardens, plazas and a sunken tennis court break down the scale of the building and provide informal outdoor spaces for work, recreation and relaxation. Natural light floods the workspaces through large openings and skylights. The interior is clad primarily in raw concrete, while the building’s structure remains partially exposed.

 

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.

 

Holiday Lagoon

This summer residence is located directly in front of the beach, on the east coast of Antiparos island. The design concept is inspired by the evocative effect of water ripples, -as if the building was dropped into a pool of water creating ripples of sweeping garden walls- that expand across the landscape.

 

Design Philosophy

As life on the island is essentially open-air, minimal separation is created between indoors and outdoors. The design reinforces the pleasing qualities of the natural surroundings. A pool mirrors the beach located directly in front. Earth tone materials in a variety of textures are implemented: local stone with a unique golden color, soft white troweled plaster surfaces, typical of Cycladic architecture, and leaf ceilings.

 

 

Sustainability Approach

New innovative technologies maximize sustainable design solutions and address the demands of present and future living. A smart wastewater treatment system naturally purifies domestic wastewater through hydrophilic plants. Other equally uncommon features for an island home are electric carport charging stations and infrastructure for a photovoltaic system. This system operates silently and provides solar power covering 100% of the house needs in electricity, heating and cooling, with zero emissions. Additionally, eco-friendly elements such as the roof garden and rain collecting cisterns for the irrigation are an integral part of the design.

 

 

Technological Integration

All home functions are facilitated through Internet of Things (IoT). Everything, from lighting and temperature, to locks and security, can be monitored remotely. LED lighting is used throughout. A unique smart water fountain combined with a central audio system form a dramatic audiovisual choreography of perpetual light and water projections in and around the pool. The residence is a haven away from the fast pace of everyday life.

 

ek magazine is the Communication Sponsor for Arxellence 3, the new, international, interdisciplinary architectural ideas competition, organized by ALUMIL and the Non-Profit Civil Company AEGEAS, under the supervision and co-organization of the Technical Chamber of Greece.

 

Competition Theme & Location

The theme of Arxellence 3 is the “Preservation of Historical Memory & Promotion and Protection of the Special Environmental Characteristics of the Island of Gyaros.” It calls on the global architectural community to submit innovative proposals for a modern Research Centre, which will serve as a “Lighthouse” of culture, enhancing the preservation of historical memory and fostering biodiversity strategies in Eastern Mediterranean.

 

Opening Ceremony

The new competition will be officially launched on June 28, 2024, at the Opening Ceremony titled “Historical Memory meets Sustainable Present & Future“, which will take place at Megaron Athens Concert Hall. The event is expected to attract the attention of the international architectural community and aims to create a vision for a Greek sustainable future.

 

Topics for Discussion

Introducing the Arxellence Institution: the pioneering initiative of ALUMIL that seeks to establish a better “tomorrow” for our country.

A Brief Retrospective of Arxellence 2: The milestones achieved during the international architectural competition for the redesign of Thessaloniki’s decayed western coastal front -establishing an institutional framework and a series of actions for implementing the competition’s results, today.

1st Panel of speakers: Scientific Approach – The European & Global perspective on sustainable building practices.

2nd Panel of speakers: The Greek Issue – Addressing sustainability challenges in our country and discussing opportunities for change

Announcing Arxellence 3: In search of a holistic and interdisciplinary approach for the preservation of historical memory and the development of biodiversity strategies in Eastern Mediterranean.

 

Keynote Speakers

On June 28th, internationally renowned scientists and researchers will present their ideas and proposals on sustainable development and best implementation practices, aiming to enhance the quality of life and protect the environment. These presentations will address major issues facing the global architectural community, seeking comprehensive answers and sustainable solutions.

 

Secure your place

Due to the given capacity of the “Alexandra Trianti” hall as well as the high level of interest anticipated for the Opening Ceremony of Arxellence 3, we strongly encourage you to register promptly to secure your participation.

You can register by following the link: Opening Ceremony of the International Architectural Competition Arxellence 3 (eventora.com)

Arxcellence 2, the architectural competition for a new Central Business District in Thessaloniki, hosted by Alumil, reached 1464 registrations from 90 countries, and 173 architectural entries were submitted for evaluation. The evaluation process was held online, involving an international Jury, that concluded in 6 prizes and 4 ex aequo mentions; those 10 projects were deemed as the most responsive to the relevant UIA guidelines.

On February 23^rd, 2021, the online award ceremony will provide architects with the stage for debating their innovative ideas. Furthermore, a physical forum is scheduled for the month of June, where the international jury members will elaborate on their outlook upon the competition.

To follow the online award ceremony, you may register here.

Furthermore, you may watch the ceremony on Facebook, through live streaming.

Ek magazine is a media partner of the competition.