studio 265's villa elxis in paros island reflects on the cycladic vernacular buildings

set at the northern part of the paros island, studio 265’s elegant villa offers an overlook at the aegean azure sea waters and the panoramic views of the island of naxos and the picturesque town of naousa. reflecting on the organic character of the cycladic vernacular streetscape and the gradual spatial connections and fluidity between exterior and interior living of the mediterranean climate, this large residential program is organized in smaller units creating a narrative sequence of spaces between open courtyards, pathways, semi-open lounges, semi-private verandas, guest rooms, pool area and living rooms.

entrance courtyard at dusk
all images © pygmalion karatzas

set against a steep east-facing slope, the longitudinal axis of greek based architectural practice studio 265‘s ‘villa elxis’ is organized north to south, allowing all exterior and interior space to enjoy plenty of morning light and unobstructed views towards the bay. parking spaces are placed on both the north and south edges of the plot, serving the main entrance to the complex and the secondary entrance to the pool area. the nexus of the residence is the covered lounge with a monastic dining table that serves both as the entrance to the main T&T house and melina guest house, as well as the common meeting space.

semi-open entrance lounge with monastic dining table overlooking naousa bay at full moon dusk

the main T&T house in the center of the composition. it consists of the living room, dining, kitchen and auxiliary rooms on the elevated ground floor — a playroom and two bedrooms with suite bathrooms on the semi-basement level — and the master bedroom with a large veranda on the upper level. three independent guest rooms are placed on the south and north sides of the main house with separate entrances. the 500 m² pool area also serves as one of the common meeting spaces of studio 265’s villa, with covered lounges, a large custom-made dining table, BBQ and wood-fired oven, and swimming pool with a wide terrace open to the panoramic views of the bay and the hills.

sequence of terraces and main T&T house at dusk

the load-bearing structure of ‘villa elxis’ is done with reinforced concrete while all exterior and interior walls are finished with a stucco paint of ground colors balancing the surrounding natural environment. wooden floors and ceilings, custom-made window frames, wall alcoves, restored antique furniture and a rustic decor, add to the warm character of the residence. the main concept was a holiday villa that can be enjoyed throughout all seasons by the family and also function as a luxury retreat for destination visitors from around the world. paros is a central island in the aegean sea, rich in cycladic history and a popular tourist destination. located on the hills of naousa bay, the emphasis is given on enjoying being there with all the senses.

view of naousa bay at sunrise from guest house terrace

eastern facade and mycenaean acropolis rocks

main living room terrace at morning light

northern view of house and pool terrace at morning light

semi-open nexus space connecting main house and guest house

interior view of living room space at morning light

interior view of living room space at night

interior view of master bedroom at morning light

view of master bedroom terrace overlooking naousa Bay at dusk

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: apostolos costarangos | designboom