N'Arrow
AGENCY
Mykonos Architects
CATEGORY
ΜΗ ΥΛΟΠΟΙΗΜΕΝΗ ΑΡΧΙΤΕΚΤΟΝΙΚΗ ΜΕΛΕΤΗ
Nestled in the hills of Heraklion, Crete, this project is situated on a slimline plot surrounded by olive trees, feature of the Cretan landscape. Rather than disrupting, the design intends to enhance the natural elements, allowing the landscape to coexist harmoniously with the building. The surroundings,the slope and the narrow shape of the plot became defining elements in the architectural approach, guiding the integration of the structure into the landscape. The concept for this project originates from a regulatory challenge: the 15-meter boundary setback requirement from the plot ’s edges. While this regulation often poses design limitations, in this instance it became the catalyst for the architectural synthesis. Paired with the elongated form of the plot, gave rise to a slender, wedge-shaped volume that fits within the site’s constraints. The resulting form , a linear structure sinks into the hillside , aligned with the natural contours. Narrow plot and boundary regulations have turned from restrictions to concept. The main idea of this project is to create a form that lodges itself naturally into the hill, an architectural form that feels both anchored and respectful to the terrain. Descending a staircase at the top of the form, one dives below the earth’s surface to reach the entrance of the living spaces. An external staircase, which functions as the primary movement axis of the structure continues the ascent along the volume, guiding the movement down through the sleeping areas and culminating in an open space at the tip of the” gesture “that embraces the pool—a focal point and conclusion of the architectural form. The building is defined by three strict walls- aligned with the terrain, two of which containing the movement axis(stairs) , while the other mark the enclosed living areas. The pool is the only element that rises prominently, marking the completion of the movement . Each room, across all three levels is designed to extend towards the exterior, creating a sense of continuity and unity with the surrounding Cretan landscape. Large openings frame views of olive trees-covered hills, while shading elements provide sun protection to the outdoor areas. Inside, sun shafts allow light and ventilation into the “cave spaces”. As far as materials are concerned, rammed earth was chosen for its sustainability and seamless integration with the environment. Sourced from compacted natural soils, this low-energy material requires minimal processing and can often be gathered on-site, reducing transportation impacts and waste. Its thermal mass naturally regulates indoor temperatures, minimizing artificial climate control needs and ensuring year-round comfort. With its earthy tones, rammed earth visually merges with the hillside, creating a sense of organic extension. Durable and low-maintenance, it provides longevity and supports a sustainable, enduring architectural design.
CLIENT
Private

CREDITS

Architect
Mazelin Aude & Alyssandratos Nikolas
3D Visualizer
Marinkovic Marko