In the Greek region of Messinia, southwest of the Peloponnese, an idyllic holiday retreat absorbs sea views from its perch on the hilltop of Costa Navarino.
Within the Costa Navarino development, where uninterrupted views of the Ionian Sea are paired with olive groves and cypress trees, a holiday retreat designed by K-Studio was commissioned by a family based in Northern Europe. The name ‘Southwand’ is borrowed from Northern European culture, and nods to enjoying the warmth of a rare sunny day by resting against a south-looking wall.
The home is shaped by the region’s topography and neighbouring historic stone tower houses that define the architectural vernacular. Characterised by a modest selection of materials that blend with the contours of the natural environment, irregularly shaped mosaic stones sourced from local quarries form the exterior and interior walls, while concrete slabs reference a modernist style. Enhancing the home’s connection to its surroundings, the extensive use of glazing invites views to be woven into the design. Inside, material restraint is practiced through the choice of flooring, marble benchtops, and timber cabinetry that honours the hues of the stone walls.
Marble benchtops and timber cabinetry honour the hues of the stone walls.
K-Studio worked to design a home that would support the client’s social lifestyle, while creating a connection to the outdoors. The studio extended the indoor living spaces to the exterior of the building shell; an architectural model that celebrates and pays homage to summer living.
Programmed across two levels, each floor plate is accompanied by a terrace where views of the landscape and sea can be observed. All internal spaces also have an outdoor counterpart, proving that living essentials can be mirrored al fresco, such as cooking, lounging, showering and exercising.Â
Maximising the generous proportions of the site, the design follows a longitudinal axis that serves as the home’s spine, with four bedrooms positioned to enjoy seclusion from the social living areas. Outside, the generous proportions of the pool unfold and merge as a continuation of the sea, visible from both levels of the home.
Embodying a dynamic way of living, Southwand House by K-Studio is designed as a retreat for meaningful connections, fostering a deep bond with nature, friends, and family.
Irregularly shaped mosaic stones sourced from local quarries form the exterior and interior walls, while concrete slabs reference a modernist style.
The home rests on the resort’s coveted Navarino Dunes, where uninterrupted views of the Ionian Sea and surrounding landscapes of the golf course, olive grove and cypress trees are enjoyed.
The generous proportions of the pool unfold and merge, visible from both levels of the home.
The extensive use of glazing enhances the home’s connection to its surroundings and invites landscape views to become woven into the design.
