monolithic dwelling in cyprus takes its cues from medieval fortress

the Koulas Project in cyprus by Alexis Papadopoulos

Located in Limassol District, Cyprus, the Koulas Project takes shape as a solid and rigid volume that encloses a two-level house and an open rooftop. Conceived by architectural practice Alexis Papadopoulos, the dwelling is informed by the medieval fortress (Kolossi Castle) in its background, exploring modern interpretations of compact forms and small openings. The resulting dwelling sees a monolithic concrete structure accompanied by a secondary linear volume that extends the living space and serves as a living room for its inhabitants. 

According to the architects, this additional volume is strategically designed to accentuate the dynamism of the main volume while maintaining a coherent design language even as they differ in form and materiality. The last level is surrounded by walls but is roofless, reflecting the typology of a medieval watchtower with turrets, forming a sense of a room open to the sky.

a castle-like monolithic look

The pre-existing olive trees were a decisive factor in the placement of the building and its overall synthesis, as the architects wanted to interfere with the vegetation as little as possible. When it comes to the interior, the team played with atmospheres, providing inhabitants with unique spatial experiences. The ground floor hosts a sleeping quarter on the north and the common areas on the south. From there, four steps lead down to the second volume, which is submerged in the surrounding garden. The upper level comprises another bedroom area giving the feeling of floating above the verdant surroundings. 

Regarding materiality, the interior unravels following a similar character to the exterior, with concrete surfaces dominating the living areas. Small scattered openings pierce its strict exterior on the south, while bigger windows are found on the north. In juxtaposition to this rigid silhouette comes the secondary volume, introducing a low wood-clad structure interrupted by generous wall-to-wall glazing. 

The Koulas’ strict appearance seems to soften up with the furnishings and details of the interior, which bring color to the otherwise monochrome walls and flooring. A light red fixed furniture enhances the material contrasts of the spaces while creating a lively and intimate atmosphere. Additional vivid splashes complete the inside and form a distinct interior environment. At the same time, a selection of lighting fixtures follows the same color palette with details in materials already used in the residence, creating a unified spatial sense.

To execute a monolithic appearance, the design team at Alexis Papadopoulos examined construction methodologies meticulously. Ultimately, they opted for prefabricated double walls in reinforced concrete, avoiding using columns or beams. The concrete walls were cast in metal molds with robotic control, offering a flawlessly smooth surface, and then assembled on-site with a crane within three days. The thermal insulation and the various services, specifically designed for each space, are located between the two sides of the concrete walls.

medieval watchtowers were taken as a reference

a linear pool follows the shape of the secondary volume

the two structures are interconnected

the second structure serves as a resting area

the interiors are minimal, without excess decoration

the architects maintained the existing olive trees

the top floor functions as a roof garden

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project info:

name: The Koulas Project 

architects: Alexis Papadopoulos Architectural Practice

design team: Alexis Papadopoulos, Despo Anagiotou, Maria Protou, Laoura Tziourrou

date of completion: 2021

location: Limassol District, Cyprus
civil engineer: Costas Constantinou
mechanical engineer: Costas Moyses
contractor: Innovative Construction Solutions
subcontractor (concrete structure): Prohellas
woodworks: Antonis Eliades
lighting: Ioannides Lighting
photographs: Mariana Bisti
photoshoot set design: Elena Kotasvili