Meraki hotel is a small boutique hotel nestled in the central mountains of Crete, where ancient olive trees populate the terraced landscape. Its architectural essence lies in the simplicity, with a concrete skeleton forming the basic structure. This exposed frame acts as a three-dimensional grid that adapts seamlessly to the sloping landscape, mimicking the materiality of a manipulated rock: It is built with the materiality of a rock, but cut orthogonally.
© Kkrom Services
The buildings are crafted from locally sourced stone, known for its cooling properties, offering natural shelter from the Mediterranean sun. Over time, lichen will grow onto the structures, further integrating them with the landscape.
© Kkrom Services
Meraki Studios features six unique apartments of varying sizes, each designed to face the valley, almost cave-like, enclosed on one side but open to panoramic views of the valley and rocky mountain tops on the other. The apartments balance comfort and functionality, with small kitchens allowing guests to cook and enjoy days in complete seclusion. Interiors stay cool during the hot summer, providing a refuge after a day of exploration. The seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living is enhanced by pergolas and shutters, offering shaded areas as the sun’s position and temperature change throughout the day.
© Kkrom Services
The surrounding garden is a verdant paradise, filled with old olive trees, a small forest, and open meadows. Various terraces throughout the garden offer different experiences: one has a pool built into the existing stone walls, while others provide panoramic views of the former agricultural landscape, or quiet corners sheltered by ancient stone.
© Kkrom Services
“Meraki” translates to passion, reflecting the spirit of local gastronomy and the dedication required to live in this beautiful yet harsh environment. At Meraki Studios, every detail is crafted with care and appreciation for the natural and cultural richness of Crete, Greece.
© Kkrom Services
Project Info:
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Architects: Sigurd Larsen
- Country: Greece
- Area: 850 m²
- Year: 2025
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Photographs: Kkrom Services
- Design Team: Sigurd Larsen
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.