geometric concrete residence in karpathos, greece, enjoys generous views of the aegean sea

on an untamed hill of karpathos island in greece, stockholm-based firm OOAK architects has designed a contemporary concrete summer house for a french-swedish couple who loves windsurfing. the dramatic landscape with its jagged texture, sparse vegetation, and generous views towards the aegean sea, has served as the main source of influence for the construction of this geometric residence which is gently introduced as a foreign object, but gradually becomes one with its rocky surroundings. 

all images courtesy of OOAK architects

since the plot is particularly difficult to sculpt and the strong winds prevent its successful cultivation, every manmade alteration on the land surface becomes visible. rather than trying to make the dwelling mimic the landscape, OOAK architects have placed the structure as a foreign element that stands out, but is still discreet. the geometric volume generates a contrasting effect with the rugged outcrop, serving as a poetic reinterpretation of symbiosis between the man-made and natural environment. the entire construction leaves the landscape as unaltered as possible, with its character accentuating the qualities of the environment. 

in order to get the most out of the unobstructed views, and reach closer to the sea, the building extends beyond the higher plateau of the site, hovering over the landscape. inside, this cantilever effect creates the illusion that the house floats above the water, while outside it further accentuates the contrast between artificial and the natural.

project info: 

name: patio house
architects: OOAK architects
project team: marie kojzar, maria papafigou, johan annerhed, aleksandra kizskielis, julia moore
location: karpathos, greece
area: 200 sqm (2150 sqft)