An Aegean Oasis: Viglostasi’s Ingenious Multilevel Design Melds with the Cycladic Landscape
Situated on the tranquil Cycladic Island of Syros, the Viglostasi residence graces the rocky slopes with a refreshing twist on traditional Greek architecture. The brainchild of Athens-based architecture studio Block722, this retreat marries the timeless charm of Aegean villages with warm minimalism principles. Inspired by traditional villages scattered across the Mediterranean coastline, the property unfolds as a series of interconnected volumes and courtyards. The clients, a family of four, commissioned the studio to design of their dream island getaway. The brief included the clients’ appreciation of Greek vernacular architecture as well as a request for a harmonious space that would enable a relaxed indoor/outdoor island lifestyle.
This contemporary stone house spreads out over 500 sq m, featuring low, orthogonal structures connected by a weave of walkways that link enclosed spaces, terraces, gardens, and patios into a unified whole. The main residential area houses the master bedroom and a secondary bedroom, as well as a flowing, open-plan living space. Additional guest suites offer extra accommodation yet remain integral to the primary structure through shared amenities and common vistas.
Sprawling and more intimate terraces that link volumes and also offer access to different views.
A central outdoor plaza forms the heart of the property, leading to a sprawling 25-meter infinity pool and a lounging terrace at the plot’s lower end. While this area offers unobstructed views of the horizon, the lower home gym and yoga terrace provide a secluded spot for fitness and meditation.
The residence’s cleverly tiered layout capitalizes on the site’s sharp gradient, providing panoramic vistas from almost any location. The staggered arrangement of the structures and the material palette of stone, wood, and plaster ensure a natural fit within the stark beauty of the Greek landscape. Light accents, nature-inspired color tones, terrazzo floors, traditional shutters, pergolas, a garden teeming with native species, and a green roof, all reinforce this sense of belonging.
While Viglostasi embraces an ethos of simplicity, it radiates an air of nuanced refinement. This comes to life through expansive spatial designs, exquisite detailing, and the studio‘s use of materials including Olympus marble, travertine stone, bamboo, and oak wood. Consequently, the retreat perfectly aligns with the clients’ aspiration for a dwelling that echoes traditional Aegean homes, a space that offers access to different views and enables laid-back indoor/outdoor living. Photography © Ana Santl.
