gerner gerner plus designs stone villa in crete with panoramic view to the libyan sea

with the mountains at their back and the sea at their feet, two blocks were arranged by gerner gerner plus in such a way on a slightly sloping terrain that the residents are treated to a spectacular 180° panoramic view of the deep-blue lybian sea from crete. while one building is intended for guests, situated behind it and somewhat higher is the main building — sixty meters long.

‘house by the sea’ by gerner gerner plus in crete
images by rupert steiner

the ground plans of austrian based firm gerner gerner plus‘ ‘house by the sea’ project are straight-lined and functionally organized. the living and lounge areas are aligned to face the sea, whereas ancillary rooms and access routes are located in the rear. two highlights dominate the grounds: the large-sized pool with outdoor bar and a seating group nearby, also a patio illuminated from above, which is used as a herb garden. surrounded by stone walls, the plants are protected from strong winds, fine slits simultaneously ensuring sufficient air circulation.

with the mountains at their back and the sea at their feet

the top-class craftsmanship strikes the eye, setting the highest of standards especially in the processing of the stone. for instance, the glass safety barriers were not simply placed onto the stone steps, but integrated into them, and the drain channel crafted in the finest stonemasonry. once a wasteland, now like a paradise garden – but at first it took a considerable outlay to make it viable as a building site. one major issue was the drainage of floods cascading down in heavy rainfall.

the residents are treated to a spectacular 180° panoramic view of the deep-blue lybian sea

building materials were mainly locally sourced, hence a large part of the walls is made of a cretan stone. despite the mild climate, gerner gerner plus’ austrian standards were priority. core insulation and underfloor heating ensure warmth and comfort even in the winters, which tend to be somewhat cooler.

while one building is intended for guests, situated behind it and somewhat higher is the main building

surrounded by stone walls, the plants are protected from strong winds

the living areas are aligned to face the sea, whereas ancillary rooms and access routes are located in the rear

building materials were mainly locally sourced

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edited by: apostolos costarangos | designboom