Architecture
In a green embrace
This vacation ‘haven’, surrounded by pine trees in Tonden, the Netherlands, stretches out over 150 sq. m.
Greek Sithonia peninsula is the epitome of freedom and summer, but, paradoxically, its architecture is largely defined by the urban regulations.
Project L6 studio, text Tzvetana Chipkova, photos Georgi Petev
This house on the Greek Sithonia peninsula is the epitome of freedom and summer, but, paradoxically, its architecture is largely defined by the stringent local urban regulations. In order to be permitted to build a house of up to 200 sq.m in this area, you have to own 4 acres of land. The architects from L6 studio are faced with a difficult task – the owners want to have a comfortable house to be used throughout the whole year with two living areas – inside and outside and three en suite bedrooms. They are Bulgarians who have spent their summer vacations in the near-by camping for many years and when the opportunity came, they bought the neighbouring land plot, which is just 50 meters from the beach. The connection with the sea, which can be seen from the summer living area, following the axis of the path to the beach, is an important element in the house project. The zero sea level of the terrain and the local climate with frequent torrential rains made the architects build the house on a 80-cm high terrace with a swimming pool dun into it. The surrounding area and the outdoor living area with a dining space are covered with pergolas which not only protect from the sun but also expand the area in the summer and provide a space for socializing. The guest bedroom is entered from the outside, on the side of the swimming pool which leaves more valuable space in the interior for a big dining area and a kitchen island. Big French windows provide access in three directions – to the garden, the swimming pool and the summer living area.
The balanced, sufficient light-coloured furnishing complements the feeling of spaciousness. The house has stone walls from a local quarry – yet another requirement of the Greek construction legislation, which guaranteed its natural blending with the surrounding environment. The architects have added yet another element which is not set out in the local regulations but enhances the Mediterranean feel of the building – all floors are mosaic made by local builders. L6 studio’s project skillfully combines the compulsory construction requirements with the desires of the owners and the architects’ high criteria for good architecture.
