The Canyon House | Xirosterni, Chania

Contour alignment

This four-bedroom holiday residence is situated in a sloped plot outside the settlement in the area of Apokoronas. Its westward orientation overlooks a gorge, with panoramic views stretching to the White Mountains in the south and Souda Bay to the north.

Design Philosophy

The design is composed of three interconnected volumes aligned with the slope’s natural contours, each connected by atriums that serve as semi-outdoor spaces. It follows a thoughtful integration of modern aesthetic with the natural landscape of Apokoronas, becoming seamlessly integrated with the plot’s steep terrain. Through the use of sustainable materials, the project respects and preserves the local environment while offering luxurious, comfortable spaces that embrace the region’s stunning views. Finally, the dual purpose of private vacation home and rental property, balances privacy and connectivity, ultimately setting a high standard for context-responsive architecture.

Spatial Layout

The access to the residence occurs through the northern volume, which hosts the primary living spaces: a kitchen with an island, dining area, and spacious living room, partially separated from the dining room by a central built-in fireplace.

The main volume serves as the private quarters, housing three bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms and a long corridor connecting to a service room and a wc. Each bedroom has its own private courtyard, and beds are oriented towards the sea, ensuring each space enjoys tranquil, unobstructed views. On the lower level, a lounge space with a fireplace and jacuzzi provides a secluded setting with panoramic mountain and sea views.

The third volume is comprised of the master bedroom, connected to the rest of the house by an atrium. Its layout maximizes views of the White Mountains, the sea, and the gorge. The suite features an open bathroom with a large bathtub, offering stunning views and extending outwards to a private patio that includes a jacuzzi and an outdoor shower.

Exterior Design

In the residence’s outdoor space, a fully equipped kitchen and a large dining area are placed under a canopy. A west-facing courtyard includes an infinity pool, outdoor shower, and ample lounging space that features views of both the gorge and sea while maintaining privacy from nearby buildings and the municipal road.