The Eye
AGENCY
Mykonos Architects
CATEGORY
ΜΗ ΥΛΟΠΟΙΗΜΕΝΗ ΑΡΧΙΤΕΚΤΟΝΙΚΗ ΜΕΛΕΤΗ
The Eye Project on Amorgos is a striking architectural fusion of traditional island forms and modern design, deeply integrated into the island’s rugged landscape. Drawing inspiration from the island’s architectural heritage, specifically the simple yet functional zevgospita (farmhouses) and katikies (traditional residences), the design honors the island’s essence. These structures, born out of Amorgos’ isolation, embody a self-sustaining way of life, featuring practical elements such as underground water tanks, windmills, and small chapels. These historical references serve as the foundation for a design that balances authenticity with contemporary needs. The Monastery of Chozoviotissa, perched dramatically on the cliffs, was a major influence on the design approach. The monastery’s austere beauty and its spiritual connection to the land inspired the architects to create a space that was not only respectful of the island’s history but also evoked a sense of contemplation, blending harmoniously with nature. The goal was to design a space that felt like a natural extension of the island’s timeless landscape, using minimal forms that honored the simplicity of life on Amorgos. The site itself presents a variety of topographical challenges, with elevations ranging from 101 meters to 61 meters and a southwest-to-northwest slope. The eastern section of the plot, around the 90-meter level, features rugged terrain and wild natural beauty. The architects used this to their advantage by incorporating tiered landscaping and retaining walls to manage the slope, while preserving the rocky features as both visual and ecological assets. The design also took into account the island's strong meltemia winds, particularly during the summer, which bring cool breezes but also require thoughtful design to ensure comfort. The wind was considered when orienting the building and crafting spaces that would provide shelter while maximizing views and sunlight exposure. The plot’s northwest-facing orientation offers a beautiful view of Nikouria Island, and although the sun rises behind the mountains, sunsets are visible during the winter and the beginning and end of the summer. The natural slope of the site also allowed the architects to position the building to face Keros Island, which provided a strategic advantage in protecting the structure from northern winds. This allowed for the creation of a cave house, which integrates with the landscape and effectively doubles the building’s area while preserving the land’s organic form. The placement of the buildings is thoughtfully designed to integrate with the site. A cave house is centrally positioned to face Nikouria Island, while a more traditional structure is placed on the northern side for wind protection. The long, meandering stone wall running through the plot ties the structures together, creating a natural façade that complements the mountainous surroundings. The white-plastered living areas emerge from this structure, with small windows on the northern façade providing natural ventilation during the summer months, reducing the need for artificial cooling. The concept behind The Eye was to evoke the essence of a church or spiritual space without directly replicating its religious form. The client sought a space with a spiritual dimension, one that conveyed a sense of mystery and ritual. To achieve this, the architects used a dual approach: the design blends subterranean and extroverted qualities, creating a ritualistic atmosphere akin to that of a monastery, while also embracing the joyful, simple spirit of a Mediterranean villa. Earth and water were incorporated into the design to unify natural elements, contributing to a tranquil and cohesive environment. The exterior spaces were designed to maximize the abundant Mediterranean sunlight while fostering a strong connection to the surrounding landscape. A key feature is the infinity pool, which appears to merge with the horizon, enhancing the sense of tranquility. As the light changes throughout the day, the pool reflects the colors of the sky and the sea, providing a serene backdrop to the architectural forms. The outdoor areas combine luxury and nature, offering breathtaking views of the Aegean. The white volume of the building takes inspiration from the Monastery of Chozoviotissa, emulating its simple, pure white forms. This minimalism creates a sense of spiritual calm and reverence, reflecting the intense Greek sunlight while offering a stark contrast to the rugged natural landscape. The use of local materials further strengthens the connection to the environment, ensuring that the structure feels both contemporary and rooted in the architectural traditions of the Greek islands. In conclusion, The Eye Project is a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity. It creates a peaceful and reflective space that engages with both the physical and spiritual aspects of the island. By incorporating natural materials, respecting the local climate, and drawing from Amorgos’ architectural heritage, the design offers a timeless sanctuary. The project embodies a deep respect for the island’s character, providing a space that is both modern and deeply connected to the island’s unique cultural and natural environment
CLIENT
Private

CREDITS

Architect
Mazelin Aude & Karatzali Chara
3D Visualizer
Marinkovic Marko