These two houses in Kavouri, Athens, are platforms that float on the edge of land and sea, balancing between different elements and conditions on a pine tree hill in the Mediterranean landscape.
Residence A is a family house that faces the sea and whose view is organized by concrete frames and zones of shade. The center of the composition is the main open space – the platform – and the swimming pool, while all living spaces have been placed around it. A central corridor leads from the entrance of the house to the private areas and the living room, offering a generous view of the sea through its southern glass wall. The fireplace is a free-standing object that doesn’t obstruct the view of the sea, which remains the focus of attention even during winter. The materials used are limited and lightly treated, namely bare concrete, plaster, grey tiles, wood and aluminum framed windows.
Residence B is another family house, reminiscent of the Residence A that integrates into the natural scenery and is defined by the creation of a big shade. Its cross-shaped layout makes it possible to differentiate between public and the private spaces, using transparent boundaries that allow a different view to be seen in every area. As one moves through the house, this layout sets a continuous game of interchangeable views. The narrow and long swimming pool, resembles a stream heading to the sea, and is situated at the side of the house, without obstructing the sea view.
