Built on a rocky slope overlooking Psiloritis, the house is governed by an extensive history. The building was constructed in 1935 by the grandfather of the current owner, to house his family after his marriage to Angeliki Kaloida, in whose honor it was named Villa Angelica. The choice of the location was based on the natural protection of the home from the weather, the panoramic mountain views, and the peace that the area offers.
The existing house consists of two distinct volumes. The new architectural proposal aims at integrating these two volumes into a whole but the clean circulation around them. The exterior shells of the old house are maintained and consolidated to meet the need for more space. Specific importance was given to the architectural ‘dialogue’ of the building with its rocky environment. The complex is developed on three levels, creating two separate apartments per floor. All flats clearly enjoy the view to Psiloritis.
The apartment placed on the ground floor is facing the street. The living areas of the lounge, dining room and kitchen are placed in an open space layout while the bedrooms are designed more isolated. The second house is developed on the upper levels with the spaces of daily use occupying most of the second floor. On the third level there is an exta bedroom with a en-suite bathroom, accessed via an internal staircase.
The house was initially erected of stone, collected from the quarry owned by the owner in Meronas (which is still preserved today and can be visited). This material is highlighted and reinforced to achieve the integration of the building in its surroundings. New arched openings are created which draw influence from the traditional Cretan architecture.
In addition, a significant external space is proposed that develops in the rock and represents a continuation of the natural relief. The atrium created between the built volume and the stone offers privacy to the visitor. This outdoor area develops with increasing levels on the rocky slope, access to which is achieved through a path carved on the cliff. The path introduces a mysterious dimension to the space as it fades into the mountain. A similar atmosphere is captured on the first level, with the small seating area carved within the corresponding rock.
Photographer: Efi Paroutsa
