Encaved stone villa project refers to a vacation house that is developed on multiple levels, on a steep slope on the island of Antiparos. Οriented towards the East, the plot offers a direct view of the island of Paros, as well as visibility to the islands of Cyclades nearby.
© George Messaritakis
Encaved Stone Villa’s Idea:
The main idea is to integrate the building into the landscape. The variant volumes in combination with the subterranean parts of the house correspond to the concept of embracing the rocky topography into the new design. Thus, the fragments οf the architectural proposal create a mild architectural intervention, emphasizing the transformation of the terrain.
© George Messaritakis
The design emphasizes the coexistence of the multiple functions of the complex. Αn open-air corridor segregates the public spaces (living and dining areas) from the private ones (sleeping areas). In addition, the private zones are placed on the lower level adjacent to the main private pool of the summer house. Auxiliary spaces, as well as purveyance, are serviced by an individual elevator.
© George Messaritakis
Large open-air relaxation areas encircle the building complex, giving space to the unfolding of the outdoor daily life of a Cycladic country house. The use of local materials contributes to the integration of built structures with the environment, as well as a symbiotic practice between the indigenous construction techniques of the past and the contemporary sustainable construction processes.
© George Messaritakis
The facades are formed with local stone as well as the lintels and pergolas are made of chestnut and wicker timber. The interior of the subterranean buildings is illuminated by elongated slits on the ground, which create a scenographic atmosphere on the inside.
Elements of transmittance and focal points are highlighted by the contiguous engravings and the footpaths into the architectural complex while guiding the dweller to the swimming areas.
© George Messaritakis
Architects: Tsolakis Architects
Location: PAROS, Greece
Project Year: 2021
Photographs: George Messaritakis
Manufacturers: Coritop, Dendrinos, FOS, G. Argyrakis, Marathon Stone, Papageorgiou
Madeline Brooks is a Projects Editor at Arch2O, where she has been shaping and refining architectural content since March 2024. With over a decade of experience in editorial work, she has curated, revised, and published an array of projects covering architecture, urbanism, and public space design. A graduate of the Harvard University Graduate School of Design, Madeline brings a strong academic foundation and a discerning editorial eye to each piece she oversees. Since joining Arch2O, she has played a pivotal role in shaping the platform’s editorial direction, with a focus on sustainability, social relevance, and cutting-edge design. Madeline excels at translating complex architectural ideas into clear, engaging stories that resonate with both industry professionals and general readers. She works closely with architects, designers, and global contributors to ensure every project is presented with clarity, depth, and compelling visual narrative. Her editorial leadership continues to elevate Arch2O’s role in global architectural dialogue.