The vacation houses are located on a hillside in the island of Tinos. A core objective of the design was to provide an easy to reach getaway for their owners and friends. The complex consists of two houses, the main residence, and a guesthouse. The two separate two-story building volumes develop in different levels ensuring privacy while conforming with the sloping land. The main intention of the layout was to create both conditions for privacy and for interaction on demand.

Overall, the design in architectural terms, features a solid base in the shape of a natural stone ground floor volume. Basically, these volumes house living areas and merge with the environment (also masking the complexes’ actual volume). On the other hand, the cluster of white, standing-out volumes form the first floor of the complex. More specifically, this floor houses the private areas of the vacation houses. In other words, this differentiation of the volumes, in terms of materiality, functionality and scale, was a design-driven decision. These three factors allow the integration of the structure with the natural environment. Moreover, they act as a means of guidance of perception. Not only for the building complex but for its parts too, as seen by the user.

A careful selection of natural materials, with respect to local traditions, coexist alongside with contemporary building techniques. As a result, the vacation houses share strong roots, to the place and time of their establishment. When the visitor enters the two houses complex through a pathway, he faces the iconic main entrance wooden door. Meanwhile, this first impression of Mediterranean vegetation and Cycladic inspired alleys accompanies the visitor while entering the main courtyard. Then, the sea view reveals itself through glimpses of the Aegean, as one passes through the gate. Thus, this narration of scenes, reminisces the experience of the picturesque Greek village alleys.

The entrance pergola guides the gaze towards the infinite horizon while offering protection from the sun. Afterwards, the entrance to the main residence is directly accessible close to the main gate. Furthermore, the visitor may reach the guesthouse by two separate doors. Not only through the backyard on the second level, but also through the front yard on the lower level. All interior living spaces face the mesmerizing sea view, and enjoy side views towards the green surroundings too. On the other hand, the outdoor areas serve both the needs for privacy and for communal interaction.

The most prominent parts of the exterior are the outdoors dining area under the wooden pergola and the infinity-edge pool. Additionally, the outdoor pool acts as an element of serenity and calmness organizing the function of the surrounding areas. Nearby, lies the fully equipped outdoor kitchen and barbeque area. Small pathways, inspired by local architecture, bridge the various levels of the outdoor areas. Lush vegetation, with local aromatic herbs, Mediterranean plants and olive trees enrich the experience of the Cycladic landscape.

The vacation housing complex manages to serve as a four-seasons retreat for the owners and their friends. At the same time, the houses provide an effortless island living experience with contemporary comforts. The architectural concept integrates the houses with the natural environment and picturesque setting of the island of Tinos.