clad in local stone, uds architects' villa perches on a ragged hilltop in cyprus 

a modern interpretation of mediterranean architecture

Perched on the hills above Limassol, Cyprus, UDS Architects has designed a floating private villa that overlooks the sea while integrating with the surrounding ragged terrain. Drawing inspiration from traditional architecture found in Cyprus and various Mediterranean countries, the modern, monolithic residence is thoughtfully arranged on either side of an open, double-height space that traverses the entire structure from north to south. A pool and vegetation punctuate this central space, which combined with the gentle sea breeze creates a microclimate that permeates the rest of the living rooms through expansive glass door openings. A monolithic Greek ‘Π’ clad in local stone embraces the whole structure, protecting the interior spaces from the west and east’s low sun while allowing spectacular views towards the sea to the South from all living spaces.

all images by Spyros Hound Photography

uds architects splits the villa across two luminous levels

Approaching the villa from its unassuming northern elevation, one may mistake it for a simple low house. However, upon stepping inside, residents are immediately captivated by the openness and natural light flooding the space, and the program that unfolds following the contours of the terrain across three levels. On the upper floor, the main entrance opens on one side to the private bedrooms and on the other side to the guest courters, which are accessed through a glass corridor that journeys over to the open central space, emphasizing the different levels of accessibility and use.

Protruding from the main structure on the south side, the pool and a sun deck run the whole length of the villa in such a way that they appear to float in mid-air. Large glass doors that open completely on this elevation eliminate the boundaries between the living areas inside and the pool outside offering a unified experience. In line with the architectural elements, UDS Architects’ interior design concept showcases a palette of natural materials; stone, marble, wood, bronze, and various shades of dark brown and blue-black are expertly integrated with light greys, while solid wood and leather furniture enhance the overall aesthetic, creating a sophisticated and inviting living space.

double height exterior space divides the residence into two clusters while enabling airflow

austere road-facing facade with stone encasing structure

the entrance transitions seamlessly from an obstructive facade to an open space with framed views

large glass doors eliminate the boundaries between the living areas inside and the pool outside

staircase as a main aesthetic component of the living area

entrance area dedicated to celebrating light

light filters from above through concrete beams

interior claddings embraces the natural beauty of raw materiality

suspended outdoor covered area with a pool drawing on Mediterranean architecture

the space cools the building and creates a sense of levitation

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project info:

name: Private Residence

location: Limassol, Cyprus
architecture: UDS Architects

lead architects: Pavlos Antoniades, Ioanna Agiomamitou, Stella Savva

interior designers: Christiana Markidou Antoniadou

electrical engineer: L&A Christodoulides Electrical Services

mechanical engineer: NPD MegaFirm

quantity surveyor: Christos Makris & Partners

landscaping: P+P LandArt Design Group

light consultant: Sigala Lighting Architects

contractor: K. Rotis Construction

furniture: Henge, Baxter, Exteta

lighting: Henge

area: 865 square meters

photography: Spyros Hound Photography | @spyroshoundphotography

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edited by: ravail khan | designboom