Category
Residencial complex
Location
Rhodes, Greece
Size
Indoor 434sq m
Lead Architect
Konstantinos Stathopoulos
Structural Study
Konstantinos Stathopoulos
Angelos Kioulos
Static Study
Giorgos Sarantis
Apostolis Politis
MEP Study
Michalis Karikis
Architecture Studio
konstantinos stathopoulos | KRAK. architects
Development
Private
2022-2023
The architectural development of Residences A and C is topographic, the exposed concrete walls emerge as traces in the landscape and evolve into retaining walls, defining the enclosed spaces and the outdoor arrangements with a light shading mesh. Life unfolds within this semi-outdoor arrangement, where boundaries blur in and out.
The outcome is highlighted by the intense Greek light, merging with the landscape to create a unified environment, with distinct characteristics and harmonized spaces of living and vegetation. The arrangement of openings contributes to the feeling of the residence as a spiritual sanctuary, offering ample light, cooling, and a connection to the surrounding natural beauty. A unique play of light and shadow is created, offering distinct experiences throughout the day as the position and intensity of the sun change.
Residence B rises at the foot of the hill; two parallel walls emerge from the ground at an angle, ascending, reminiscent of the local goats standing on the hillside. The materials draw their breath from the rocky formations of the landscape, their color and roughness. Exposed concrete glows under the brilliant Greek light, serving as a modern stone that imparts both strength and fluidity. Thus, a Doric character is achieved.
Walls and slabs are measurable, yet the human soul is not. We often encounter spaces that have correct dimensions and might be termed “functional,” yet they fail to inspire the user. Nikos Kazantzakis, in Askitiki, writes that we are but fragile beings “made of mud and dreams”. We covered our fragility by placing a roof over our heads for shelter, but what do we do for our dreams? A space has not only the right but also the duty to inspire its user, to challenge them, to enable their spiritual growth, and to become an architectural experience