Jewel

The steep topography of the site, with an imposing 80% incline, was both a challenge and a catalyst for the design of these two caved villas. Rather than being viewed as a mere constraint, the steep slope became the defining feature that shaped the architectural concept, allowing the existing terrain and local vegetation to guide the layout of the buildings. The site’s unparalleled panoramic views towards the eastern horizon of Desimi Bay and the open sea beyond provided a linear context for the spatial organization.

The residences are conceived as extensions of the land itself, blending naturally into the hillside.  At the core of the design philosophy is the notion of ‘living within nature,’ which aims to dissolve the boundaries between interior and exterior spaces.

The selection of local materials reinforces the connection between the built form and its surroundings. Untreated stone, whitewashed plaster and wood are used for their ability to blend effortlessly into the environment. The stone anchors the structure to the ground, while the lightness of the whitewashed plaster allows the buildings to recede into the backdrop of the landscape. Wood, featured in the decking and architectural details such as the pergolas, adds warmth and texture, further blurring the boundaries between interior and exterior spaces and evoking a sense of organic continuity.

The result is a design that evokes the sensation of floating among the treetops, fostering an intimate connection between the inhabitants and the surrounding landscape.