Vathi Residence, Rethymno, Greece property photos, Modern Greek real estate images

Vathi Residence in Rethymno, Crete

12 October 2024

Design: Doriza Design

Location: Rethymno, Crete, Greece

Photos by Doriza Design

Vathi Residence, Greece

Set against the stunning backdrop of Crete, this single-story residence with a guesthouse and swimming pool elegantly fuses contemporary architecture with traditional elements. Rather than following a conventional monolithic layout, the design breaks the building into distinct, geometrically pure volumes. These segments shift in orientation, spreading across the expansive 4,000-square-meter site to create a dynamic U-shape that frames a serene central courtyard. This open-air space, landscaped with trees, shaded pathways, and tranquil water features, serves as the heart of the home. The courtyard not only provides a peaceful retreat but also enhances natural ventilation and cooling, fostering a comfortable microclimate throughout the residence.

The architecture is defined by its clean, minimalist lines and rectangular forms, which are unified by a striking dark grey metal roof. This roof, a bold modern gesture, connects the various volumes while introducing a sense of cohesion. Underneath, it is clad in warm Iroko wood, offering a tactile contrast to the industrial feel of the metal. The exterior walls are finished in soft beige plaster, which blends effortlessly with the surrounding landscape, subtly nodding to the traditional architectural vernacular of Crete. This thoughtful combination of materials balances modernity with respect for the island’s cultural heritage.

Inside, the residence is designed to embrace natural light and views. Expansive windows frame vistas of both the sea and the lush natural landscape, blurring the line between indoors and outdoors. The living and dining areas open directly onto the central courtyard, creating a seamless flow between the interior and exterior spaces. The use of aluminum window frames in a dark grey tone, matching the roof, enhances the minimalist aesthetic and reinforces the overall material cohesion of the house.

Privacy is a key consideration in the design. The layout of the house, along with strategically placed walls and gates, ensures that each area retains a sense of seclusion while maintaining a strong connection with the surrounding outdoor spaces. Subtle contemporary touches, like the minimalist metal canopy that shades the walkway to the entrance, introduce modern elegance without overwhelming the home’s simplicity.

Overall, this residence is a masterful blend of materiality and design principles. By balancing modern and traditional elements, it creates a sophisticated retreat that is deeply rooted in its Cretan setting. The house stands as an exemplary piece of contemporary architecture, harmoniously integrated with its natural surroundings while offering a refined and peaceful escape.

Vathi Residence in Greece – Property Information

Design: Doriza Design – https://dorizadesign.com/
Project size: 240 sq. m.
Site size: 4,000 sq. m.
Building levels: 1

Photography: Doriza Design

Vathi Residence, Rethymno, Greece property images / information received 121024

Location: Rethymno, Crete, Greece, southeastern Europe

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