Perched precariously above the azure waters of a secluded cove in Agios Sostis, Greece, the NCAVED House emerges as a masterful blend of architecture and nature. Designed by Mold Architects under the visionary guidance of Iliana Kerestetzi, this residence demonstrates a profound understanding of the natural landscape and climatic challenges. By ingeniously integrating the house into the rocky slope, the design creates a striking harmony between human habitation and the rugged beauty of its environment.
Conceptual Approach: Integrating Architecture with Nature
The NCAVED House is strategically positioned to address the dual challenges of its location: breathtaking views and harsh north winds. Instead of building conventionally on the ground, the architects chose to excavate the slope, embedding the house into the natural terrain. This approach not only provides shelter from the elements but also maintains the integrity of the site’s dramatic landscape.
The design employs a rectangular grid to carve out a three-dimensional “chessboard” of solids and voids within the slope. This geometric rigor is disrupted by rotating the last axis of the grid, which enhances the living area’s perspective and amplifies the views. This rotation effectively minimizes the house’s visual impact from afar, creating a seamless transition between the built environment and the natural surroundings.
Architectural Features: Contrasts and Connectivity
Vertical and Horizontal Elements
The NCAVED House features longitudinal dry stone walls that define its vertical boundaries and guide the visitor’s gaze towards the horizon. These robust stone walls stand in stark contrast to the light, glass-filled transverse facades. The glass walls are designed to open completely, offering unobstructed views to the east and framing lush indoor gardens. This design choice enhances airflow and natural light, contributing to the residence’s airy and open atmosphere.
Staircase and Entrance
An external in-caved staircase connects the three levels of the house, leading visitors to the main entrance at the living room loft. This gradual descent into the house reveals its spaces incrementally, providing a dual visual experience: a view of the sea as one descends and a glimpse of the sky as one ascends.
Materiality and Atmosphere: Crafting a Unique Experience
Material Choices
The NCAVED House is characterized by its use of raw materials, including stone, exposed concrete, wood, and metal. These materials are carefully selected to emulate the natural roughness of the rock from which the house is carved. The resultant inner spaces evoke a sense of being within a natural cavity, blending seamlessly with the environment.
Light and Shadow Play
Perforated filters on the facades and floors create intricate shadow patterns that add to the house’s atmospheric quality. Combined with large reflective mirror surfaces, these features contribute to an eerie and enchanting ambiance in the private areas of the residence. The pergolas, appearing to float above the surface, further highlight the house’s dynamic presence and its integration with the landscape.
Conclusion
The NCAVED House stands as a testament to innovative architectural design and a profound respect for nature. By embedding the residence into the rocky slope and using a blend of natural and modern materials, Mold Architects and Iliana Kerestetzi have created a home that harmonizes with its environment while offering a striking visual and spatial experience. This project not only provides functional shelter but also enhances the natural beauty of Agios Sostis, demonstrating a sophisticated understanding of both architecture and landscape.
