Located on the beautiful island of Syros in the Aegean Sea, this holiday home is inspired both by the monolithic structures still found on the island and by primordial dwellings. Syros House is not just one structure, but a complex of five buildings designed by the Thessaloniki-based Katerina Tsigarida Architects studio for a Greek family residing in London. The structures are oriented towards the sea and the axes of the courtyards point to a small deserted island just beyond the shore. This design decision connects the buildings to the landscape and ensures that the living spaces benefit from natural ventilation and lighting, but also that the outdoor areas are protected from coastal winds. The fenestration frames the gorgeous views and provides privacy, optimizing the amount of natural light all year round at the same time. Traditional building methods and natural materials are used throughout: timber ceiling beams, locally sourced stone, sand and earth mixed with cement for the floors and terraces, and untreated lime plaster for the walls. Simple furniture pieces, a blend of wood, stone and concrete complemented by aluminum accents create a refined yet rustic and warm ambience, making the Syros House a perfect home away from home. Photography by Yiorgis Yerolymbos.
