Τhe residence occupies a superb location on the peninsula of Sithonia, very close to the water’s edge. The landscape is composed of small beaches within a cove framed by low cliffs, chaparral, Aleppo pines and olive trees. The new building is designed based on the previous form of it, as the bearing structure is maintained. The residence comprises five large rooms with ensuite bathrooms, plus a living room, kitchen and auxiliary spaces. The ground floor of the low two-storey, flat-roof building is largely incorporated within the slope. Thus, while the two eastern rooms on the first floor have the privilege to enjoy a direct sea view from above, the other three enjoy immediate access to their environment via private courtyards/open-air living rooms under reed awnings.
The property is unfenced. The only clear border is the edge of the road which delimits the entrance. The landscaped environment echoes the natural forms of the slope and ends at the beach. Olive and pomegranate trees, bushes and aromatic herbs were added to the local rocks and cliffs. A small area was turned into a kitchen garden, so that guests can have their own fresh vegetables. To break up the severity of the central prism forming the main building and allow for a smoother transition from the geometric - anthropogenic to the natural environment, all arbours, reed screens and exterior flooring are aligned on a different axis to that of the main building.
In choosing colours and materials for both the interior and exterior of the building, landscape was the inspiration. Where the building meets the ground, it was lined with local stone, using the dry-stone technique. In this way the building seems to grow out of the slope. The stucco and coatings were painted in earth tones reflecting the sand and rocks and combined with soſt blue-green colours, inspired by the sea, pines and olive trees, which were used for furniture and textiles. Throughout the day, the colours are transformed by light entering through the reed screens and wooden awnings of the facade. For no colour appears lighter in the interior space, a livelier wood varnish was used, together with darker blue and brighter green, wherever natural light is weak. The contrast between the stronger colours and the white ceilings and floors, creates a tension that allows for a better balance between exterior and interior.
In the four upstairs rooms, Dionysis Tsasis, the talented painter, decorated large wall surfaces with original works, based on elements of Greek culture and nature. Inspired by countryside and garden, these works directly quote traditional Greek art. Each room is unique, with its own theme: pomegranate tree, olive tree, poppies, swallows and wildflowers. The main aim was to avoid overdesigning the space or making it too "loud", but to have as a result a simple, light, spare architectural space with a well-balanced, timeless design that would not compete for attention with the loveliness and simplicity of the landscape but converse harmoniously with it, allowing guests to feel at home.
