Situated in the island of Syros, Syros I summerhouse hosts a couple and their guests. The design process was defined by the clients’ desire to maximize the view of the Plagia bay. The main intention was to unify the various spaces of the house under one roof facing the Aegean, without creating a massive volume, thus resulting in a deconstructed rectangle with massive openings from all sides.

The entrance is situated in the back, following a gentle descent through continuous miniature courtyards, planted with local aro- matic herbs. The main volume houses the common areas, whereas the slightly higher volume covered in local masonry houses the couple’s private area. The volumes are set next to each other, under a united roof slab, facing the magnificent view of the bay.

The design of the guesthouses varied significantly, as the clients’ desire was the creation of spaces that could be both private and with constant access to the pool and outdoor space. The four guesthouses are situated in opposing parts of the site, gaining dis- tinct characteristics: the ones closer to the house are intended for close friends and visitors whereas the ones under the master bedroom enjoy a private entrance and can easily be rented.

The outdoor area follows the topography of the landscape through a series of steps that define the outdoor areas and offer vast relaxation spaces, sheltered either from the sun or from open. The house and guestroom in-between space under the roof slab is designed as the heart of a summerhouse: a place near the hearth where all residents will relax and enjoy the Aegean.

Studio: BLOCK722 ARCHITECTS+
Location: Syros, Greece
Start on site: 2011
Completion: 2014
Structural Engineer: Isidoros Rossolatos
Commissioned art: Pantelis Chandris

© FOR PHOTOS: Yiorgos Kordakis, Ioanna Roufopoulou, Rum Heidi, Attali (please advise credit on the image)