Four self-contained, eco-friendly, and private summer residences overlook the archipelago of Santorini, the largest island in the Cyclades, a remnant of a volcanic caldera. This geometric complex, designed by the Iraisynn Attinom studio, was conceived to be sheltered from the winds, while preserving the privacy of the residents, the views of the Aegean Sea, and the Mediterranean landscape.
The complex comprises eight rectangular volumes with vaulted ceilings, private courtyards, swimming pools, and semi-open spaces. The cubic houses, which follow the slope of the promontory, form a traditional settlement, respecting the architectural idioms of the Cyclades. While the local stone walls provide coolness in summer and warmth in winter, the architects also used an eco-friendly natural plaster, "kourasani," discovered in ancient Greece. "This plaster contains transformed volcanic ash from Santorini (terra pozzolana) and natural ceramic/stone powder, known for their hydraulic properties."" explains the architecture studio. Surrounding it, vegetation and pergolas made of wood and reeds invite tranquility, and at its heart, arches, described by Iraisynn Attinom as follows: "They have something timeless and metaphysical about them that intrigues our imagination […] Like the work of Giorgio De Chirico, filled with summer carefree languor, light and shadows, they evoke unexpected sensations." An inspired and inspiring achievement, winner of the Architizer A+Awards 2022 in the "hospitality" category.
© Iraisynn Attinom
https://iraisynn.attinom.net/?lang=fr
Nathalie Dassa
