Stone Architecture: Casa Incognita in Greece

Nestled along the Peloponnesian coast near Porto Heli, Greece, facing the island of Spetses, “Casa Incognita” by Pieris.Architects stands as an exceptional model of architectural integration with nature. This private residence was designed to be an organic extension of its surrounding terrain, skillfully responding to the site’s hybrid character—which blends qualities of the mainland with the cultural and spatial relationships of the nearby island—through a design language that balances robustness and refinement, enclosure and openness.

The structure is masterfully embedded into the site’s natural slope, minimizing its visual impact while meticulously preserving the existing topography. Its architectural expression reflects the dual identities of the region: the physical solidity and authenticity of stonework associated with rural mainland structures, and the pristine, white-plastered surfaces characteristic of traditional island architecture. The lower level is constructed from rough river stone, firmly anchoring the residence in its immediate context, while the upper volume is clad in crisp white plaster, a clear nod to the luminous façades of Saronic and Cycladic settlements. Despite its two-story structure, the home maintains a low, discreet presence, fully integrated into the hillside.

pieris.architects embeds layered stone-and-plaster residence into greek hillside

Intentional Openness to the Sea and Layered Connection to the Landscape

The interior spatial layout is defined by its deliberate openness to the sea and its enhanced, layered connection to the surrounding landscape. The ground floor functions as the social heart of the home, featuring an open-plan living area that incorporates the kitchen and a dining space. Expansive glass openings frame breathtaking views of the water and expertly establish a visual and spatial continuity between the interior spaces, the external swimming pool, and the outdoor seating areas. Additionally, the design opens onto an internal courtyard, providing a quieter, more enclosed atmosphere for privacy.

Service functions are carefully integrated into the slope, preserving the clarity and beauty of the built form. The upper level houses three internal bedrooms, each thoughtfully oriented to capitalize on natural light and panoramic views of the environment. A sleek, elegant wooden staircase connects the two floors, ensuring a smooth vertical transition within the home. Furthermore, a separate guest suite is positioned along a garden path, accommodating two additional bedrooms and a shared bathroom, offering optimal privacy for guests while maintaining their connection to the main living areas.

Conclusion: A Balanced Approach of Restraint and Contextual Awareness

The “Casa Incognita” project by Pieris.Architects presents a distinguished architectural approach that prioritizes visual restraint, deep contextual awareness, and masterful integration with the natural landscape. Through its considered material palette, precise spatial sequencing, and architectural dialogue with the terrain, this residence demonstrates a balanced and ideal response to its unique coastal location between the mainland and the island.

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✦ An Editorial insight

This article provides a deep dive into the “Casa Incognita” project as a unique case study in architectural integration with the natural environment, highlighting Pieris.Architects’ prowess in harmonizing two distinct identities—the robustness of mainland stone and the purity of island white plaster—into a cohesive work. The positive critique focuses on the design’s mastery in balancing openness to the vista with privacy, achieved through open social cores and secluded guest wings. However, a constructive critique could be offered regarding the article’s lack of deeper exploration into the structural challenges inherent in building a structure so precisely embedded into a slope, which would have enriched the technical discussion. The supreme value of the project remains in its presentation as an inspiring model for architects on how to design sustainable dwellings that respect their environment without compromising on strong spatial identity.