aristides dallas architects sets three-volume house between the rocks of tinos island

aristides dallas architects has set this house between the rocks in volax, a small village in the greek island of tinos known for its lunar-like landscape of big round rocks. in respect of this unique landscape, the dwelling has been designed as three separate volumes set around a central patio. the volumes enclose the main functions of the residence and differ in height, dimensions, and materials.all images by panagiotis voumvakis

‘volax is perhaps, the most “authentic” location in tinos; blatantly special and distinct, in a way that makes it, unique in cyclades – or even the world,’ explains aristides dallas architects. ‘so, designing a building as a continuation or a complementary part of the overall grand picture of volax, is a real challenge.’ each of the three volumes of the house has been freely set in the space, in an almost anarchic way, as if it has fallen from the sky. ‘in other words, as exactly it has happened to volax volcanic spherical rocks,’ adds the studio.

the concrete volume on the northern side of the residence creates a ‘limit’ that artificially protects the space from northern winds. the choice to use non-painted concrete makes the house seem also like a rock. on the other hand, when the colorful concrete aggregates emerge to the surface, it will be totally integrated with the landscape. at the same time, the volume’s oblong shape gives prominence to the surrounding rocks and enhances their sphericity.

the three volumes of the house enclose the main living functions, while a secluded open patio marks the center of the project. on the side of the patio, the hard envelope of the concrete volume is replaced with floor-to-ceiling glazing, allowing the interior to become one with the exterior. ‘in this way, the limitations of the “inside” and the “outside” become less and less apparent, while the interior space extends until the rock cluster, in the back of the land towards the village,’ aristides dallas concludes.