A Friend's House
LIMASSOL - CYPRUS
COMPLETED 2024
PRIVATE RESIDENTIAL
PHOTO & VIDEO CREDITS - VICTOR HADJIKYRIACOU
This house is located on the outskirts of Limassol town in one of the most desirable residential neighbourhoods with only 400 meters from the sea. The natural steepness of this sloping plot with 12 meters of level difference from the North & South roads was the driving factor for the layout of this house.
The ground floor is positioned at the same level as the North road with limited openings ensure both privacy for the residents and for the building to appear anchored to the site. Smaller volumes set further back sit above the ground floor plinth which house the bedrooms separated by one vertical element for the lift which accesses all levels.
On the South elevation, the design of the building highlights the harmonious relationship between architecture and landscape with the main living areas opening towards the privileged view of the sea. The interior and exterior pool veranda are positioned at the same level allowing a seamless experience between indoor and outdoor entrainment and with an unobstructed panoramic view to be enjoyed by the residents.
The material selection was inspired by the unrefined stone used to build the nearby archaeological city of Amathus. We were drawn to how the stone layers tell a story of history and context, and we sought to reflect this sense of identity through the design.
Natural, earthy travertine stone plays a significant role in the exterior material palette, giving the house a sculptural quality that connects with its surroundings. The travertine was also incorporated into the design of the main gates, with smaller perforations to break the solid mass, providing a balance of privacy, security, and visual interest.
Upon entering the villa, you are welcomed by a double-height void space, where large glazing on one side brings the garden’s greenery into the interior. A translucent marble wall, softly backlit to create a warm glow, serves as a subtle screen, concealing the walnut staircase that leads to the upper bedroom floor.
Suspended at the centre, a leaf-inspired chandelier visually connects the two levels, adding a sense of delicate movement and enhancing the airy, organic atmosphere of the space.
Lighting is an essential element in our design process, which we manage in-house to ensure key features are highlighted and the space feels warm and inviting. A mix of direct and indirect lighting is used to create a smooth transition between interior and exterior spaces, enhancing the building’s architectural details and contributing to a comfortable atmosphere throughout the day and night.
