Columbia Sun
AKROTIRI - LIMASSOL
COMPLETED 2023
HOSPITALITY
PHOTO CREDITS - VAKIS ASSOCIATES & COLUMBIA RESTAURANTS LTD
Columbia Sun is an all-day beach restaurant located in the British Sovereign area of Akrotiri, along Limassol Bay. The design takes into account the unique sensitivities of the site, balancing the presence of military installations with the natural surroundings. The sandy beach, where sea turtles nest in the summer, and the nearby salt lake, which attracts migrating flamingos in the winter, make environmental considerations a key part of the project.
The previous 1950s building on the site was stripped back to its original columns, with all corroded elements removed. The new design introduces a steel I-beam framework that forms both the foundation and the roof, creating a unified structural system. This approach was chosen to meet regulatory requirements while also streamlining construction. By reducing the need for extensive piling and concrete foundations, the design minimizes site disturbance and allows for a faster, more efficient build.
The spatial layout is inspired by the reimagining of a traditional Greek harbor village, or Limanaki, with a collection of distinct buildings serving different functions. These structures are arranged around a shared courtyard and shaded outdoor dining space, encouraging a natural flow between various experiences. Guests move seamlessly through the spaces, transitioning from boat house-style driftwood interiors to open-plan market-style kitchens and a Moroccan-inspired tent lounge.
For the main dining area, a 20-meter-long service pass acts as a subtle threshold between the open kitchen and the guests, offering controlled glimpses of the live cooking while ensuring efficient storage and workflow for staff during peak hours. Above, the ceiling features an intricate arrangement of timber triangular forms, inspired by the movement of flamingo flocks in the nearby salt lake. This design introduces a dynamic yet calming rhythm, bringing a sense of natural motion to the busy energy of the kitchen space.
At the southern end of the restaurant, beyond the main dining area, we designed a North African and Arabic-inspired tented space, offering a unique retreat from the strong prevailing winds and summer sandstorms. The space is also fully enclosed with double-glazed aluminium doors, providing a sanctuary while maintaining a connection to the outdoors. To soften the harsh summer glare and acoustics, we’ve incorporated a variety of colourful fabrics on the ceiling, creating a relaxed, lounge-like atmosphere.
The design takes inspiration from traditional Bedouin tents, known as Khaima, which have been used for centuries across North Africa and the Middle East. By incorporating this historical reference, the Columbia Sun tent celebrates Cyprus’ rich cultural heritage while providing an all-year-round experience, offering guests both shelter and an immersive ambiance on the beach.
The newly built and refurbished spaces are infused with locally sourced, traditional Mediterranean materials and construction techniques, grounding the design in its site and context. This approach ensures a seamless integration of the structure with its natural surroundings, creating a space that feels both timeless and contemporary
