314 Architecture Studio - Geor. Kondili 14A

h33_Varkiza spa resort Project Information

This project is based on the client’s concept, which had the redefinition of the notion of ‘apartment building’, as its central axis. He redefines it as a vessel that can provide the user with a cultural and ecological environment, and one of social interaction. The building is located in a 4000m2 plot at the area of Varkiza and follows two basic synthetic axis that define the form, atmosphere and use of the spaces.

Firstly, by adopting abstract spaces that are surrounded by thick vegetation and ethnic elements, a residential environment is created, which provides the users with feelings of relaxation and wellness. A basic inspiration of the forms was the geometry of the sandstone rocks, curved by the sea.

The bioclimatic design of the building constituted the second basic synthetic axis, incorporating energy efficiency systems, such as photovoltaic panels and energy collectors, collecting waste water for secondary uses as well as the appropriate exploitation of the geometry of the forms. More specifically, the building is divided in three levels: basement (spa), ground floor (dwellings) and first floor (exclusive residences).

In the first floor, the residences are surrounded by a shell that reflects the 50% of suns radiation before it reaches the main thermal shell of the two residences. Those residences, also have access to the ground floors green roof. The sculptural forms that are evident in the level of the roof are used as skylights for the ground floor, and can also be used as abstract sculptural seating’s for the roof area.

At the ground floor level, smaller scale airy residences are reaching towards a central main atrium, a space characterized with sculptural elements and thick vegetation. A business centre and one shared kitchen-restaurant that hosts biological cuisine cooking seminars, form the spatial configuration of this level and add a semi-public character in the meeting spaces in between. Every residence own a private swimming pool. A significant amount of emphasis was given during the design process, in order to attain the maximum level of privacy.

A cyclical ramp in the atrium space enhances the movement, reaching the basements atrium towards the lower level. This layout, provides vertical lighting towards the spa spaces as well as the heated public pool that exists in this level. This space is surrounded by water therapies uses, Jacuzzi, hammam, massage and a beauty centre. Secondary spaces and the garage of the building are also located in the basement.

An outdoor space adjacent to the building hosts a spherical greenhouse and other various outdoor activities, such as cinema, art seminars and biological cultivation, take place. The proposed building materials are natural, such as perforated wooden panels, cement mortar, exposed concrete and black bamboo.