Crafting with Nature: The Perma Retreat
On the island of Serifos, Mold Architects has unveiled an exceptional hospitality retreat that communes with its rugged Greek landscape. Named Perma, this project ingeniously incorporates five guest residences, constructed from the very stone excavated from its coastal hillside setting, offering panoramic views of the Aegean Sea.
A Harmonious Union of Land and Architecture
Instead of altering the natural hillside, the architects utilized the extracted materials, crafting an exquisite blend of architecture and environment. The site comprises stone-clad units nestled within stepped terraces, interwoven with tranquil pools and verdant courtyards.
“Using the earth as primary material was central to the project’s ethos,” said Iliana Kerestetzi, founder of Mold Architects. This innovative approach transforms traditional building endeavors into an eco-conscious retreat, diverging from conventional hotel experiences by highlighting self-contained residences that prioritize privacy.
Modern Elegance in Timeless Surroundings
Comprised of four stone structures, the retreat accommodates three expansive 60-square-meter units and two smaller suites. Each residence features an outdoor sanctuary complete with a private pool, dining terrace, and kitchen, seamlessly connecting guests to the picturesque island terrain.
The interiors maintain a minimalistic elegance, with built-in furnishings and concrete floors accentuating the surrounding natural beauty. Sliding glass doors blend indoor and outdoor spaces, offering uninterrupted views of surrounding courtyards and the sea.
A Journey Through Nature
Guests journey through a series of pathways and terraces before reaching their accommodations, experiencing a gradual transition from the island’s expansive landscapes to intimate private spaces. This thoughtful design follows the land’s natural contours, aligning vistas with the distant horizon.
“The arrangement echoes the natural slope, turning towards the sea,” explained Kerestetzi. Exposed concrete beams form a structural grid accentuating the retreat’s open-air concepts, while reed screens offer shade and allow refreshing breezes to flow through.
Sustainable Living in the Cyclades
Mold Architects employed passive cooling methods ideal for the Cycladic climate, incorporating shaded courtyards and verdant roofs. A biological wastewater treatment system and photovoltaic solar panels underscore the retreat’s commitment to sustainability, making it a model of eco-luxurious living.
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The result of Kerestetzi’s vision is a sanctuary that merges modern design and natural beauty, perfectly tailored for reflection and reconnection with nature.
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Photography by Giorgos Sfakianakis highlights the harmonious integration of architecture and landscape. This retreat on Serifos sets new standards for ecological and experiential hospitality.
Source: dezeen.com