Z House
LIMASSOL - CYPRUS
3D MODEL BY ANDREAS PANAGIOTOU & IMAGES BY VICTOR HADJIKYRIACOU
Fifteen years ago, our studio designed a modern, minimalist villa on the slopes of Amathus archaeological area of east Limassol. The Cliff Edge house, designed for a couple, was positioned to take full advantage of the sea views, with clean lines, open spaces, and a strong connection to the landscape.
Years later, their daughter has returned from the UK with her young family and asked us to design a new home on the adjacent plot. Her brief was clear: she wanted a home that would connect naturally with her parents’ villa while reflecting her own values—specifically, a love for classical proportions, high ceilings, pitched tiled roofs and ordered spaces.
This contrast presented an exciting challenge and allowed us the opportunity to create a modern interpretation that carefully respects the proportions, detailing, and traditional elements inherent in Georgian architecture, while blending them with contemporary design principles.
This second villa was conceived as a continuation rather than a replica. The aim was to establish visual and functional links between the two homes, particularly at the garden level, while allowing each to retain its identity.
The design focuses on clarity, comfort, and long-term usability. Local stone, grey clay tiles and natural materials were used throughout, reflecting both context and durability.
The front elevation introduces classical elements in a contemporary way—symmetry, vertical emphasis, and formal double height entry are balanced with garden terraces, wooden pergolas, and Mediterranean planting.
The formality of this entrance is balanced by the massing of the building, which is carefully articulated through the symmetrical arrangement of two identical wings. Each wing is defined by a controlled rhythm of windows and openings, tailored specifically to the functional needs of the interior spaces.
The South elevation of the house embraces a more expansive and modern approach, with larger, floor-to-ceiling openings that mirror the design language of the existing house. Internally, spaces were laid out to serve both daily life and extended family gatherings, keeping in mind the evolving needs of a growing family.
From above the project reveals a layered structure that steps down the site, creating sheltered outdoor areas, shaded verandas, and generous terraces. The new villa integrates a large pool, planted gardens and outdoor shaded living zones, offering a calm and functional family environment.
The swimming pool, located at the lower basement level, features a T-shaped layout that not only provides a functional and visually dynamic space but also incorporates a heating system, making it usable all year-round.
This pool level serves as a key amenity within the larger complex of the two family houses and is directly connected at the ground floor pool area of the existing house, creating a seamless connection between the two properties and a large multifunction entertainment area for the family to enjoy.
This project represents a continuation of a family story and a design approach that values proportion, context, and purpose. It offers a grounded response to its setting and reflects a growing interest among younger clients for meaningful, lasting architecture.
STUDY MODEL
