The architectural dream team of Peter Thomas Hornung, Elsa Katharina Jacobi and Jan Escher came together to design this modern vacation home here in Rhodes, Greece. And if you’re looking for a little luxury, then this is the place for you. Inspired by the weather- and wave-beaten rocky shoreline, the home’s modern facade has a strong geometric presence, in sharp contrast to these natural, serene surroundings. Inspired by nature but executed in a contemporary way, the house flows from outdoors in, from upper to lower levels with ease, hinting at the general aura of the place. Check it out!
The crisp, white volume peeks out over a continuous natural stone wall which borders the coastal road. The architects continued this existing stone wall with the aim of connecting the house to its surroundings while piggybacking on this already-existing structure for privacy.
A gaping entrance invites you to the inner reaches of this den of luxury, to explore a world of opulence boasting stunning architecture, contemporary design, nature, and minimalist living at its best.
The home’s signature statement comes in the form of a gigantic geometric volume hanging over the stone wall – an ultra modern, almost alien addition to this organic ocean-side landscape. This cantilevered wing reaches over a glazed living area and on the other side of the glass, its alfresco equivalent. The house has an almost “pavilion” look and feel, thanks to its disappearing walls.
The glass wall slides open to turn interiors into an outdoor sitting and lounging area. Poolside, this hotspot has surely hosted some epic parties. A pattern of triangular cutouts overhead echoes the angled posts supporting the roof. Aside from this pair of pillars, the volume appears to float.
Interiors are all white, simplifying the style and amplifying natural sunlight. Interiors boast a minimalist style with few adornments and furnishings kept to a bare minimum. The few pieces permitted are cool, clean and contemporary. The real star of the show here is the architecture itself. A staggering of levels, some two-storey, enjoy privacy within this open concept space while allowing natural light to flow freely.
A sculptural staircase leads up to a den area, encircling this open double storey living space and leading up toward a huge skylight. An open upper-level hallway offers unobstructed views through the windows and of the living areas below.
Up in the master bedroom retreat, you almost feel like you’re waking up on a luxury yacht, with the ever present waterfront views through frameless floor-to-ceiling glass overlooking a private upper-level terrace. Step out and take in these breathtaking vistas. On the floor, triangular cutouts offer glimpses of the pool and patio below.
At dusk, this white house has a haunting glow, shimmering with the ripples from the pool and the water just beyond it. But beauty aside, this house was also built with brains. It smart design includes passive ventilation and cooling, and small volumes that cool down quickly. In addition, evaporation from the swimming pool also contributes a passive cooling effect. Roof-mounted photovoltaic panels provide power off the grid.
Here are some floor plans and elevations to illustrate how the living spaces are organized:
The sloping property ensures the front of the house – the water-side facade – enjoys the best views through maximum glazing.
Hornung And Jacobi Architecture
via DigsDigs
