An environmental assessment was carried out to ensure that
EMBRACED BY THE LANDSCAPE, IN HARMONY WITH THE ENVIRONMENT
Rugged, wild and untouched
The Ringhouse is located on the southern coast of Crete. The house and its garden are designed to form a temperate microclimate, an oasis within an intensely beautiful but physically demanding environment.
BLENDING IN
Back to its native flora
Once the earth was restored, the plants needed to grow again. A botanical survey was conducted by an agriculturist in order to understand the predominant biotopes. During spring, prior to construction, seeds were collected on site and cultivated in a greenhouse. The native greenery was re-introduced to the site transforming it back to its undamaged form.
HIDING
IN PLAIN SIGHT
invisible from a distance
Two concrete beams follow the topography of the hill to define the outline of the house. The ring is articulated by these concrete beams. It provides shaded area’s, well-ventilated interiors and surfaces for solar collection panels. Carefully selected materials such as exposed concrete, stone walls and colours specific to the site shape Ringhouse. It operates in a sustainable way and environmental impact is minimized on an ongoing basis.
authentic and soothing
The courtyard garden
Filled with citrus trees and various indigenous herbs, the courtyard garden breaks up the rough outdoor feeling and provides authentic and soothing notes. Primming with typical citrus trees, as well as with plants and herbs that scent deliciously, this garden creates a lush and green environment in the inner ring of the house.
DECA Architecture
architectural masterpieces
Nature and architecture together in harmony. DECA Architecture is known for its stunning architectural masterpieces in which ‘merging into the environment’ is the key value. By taking every natural element into account and based on thorough landscape studies, the design, materials and colours were carefully selected and integrated into the unique and indigenous landscape.
At a broader scale, the house is a landscape preservation effort.
Authentic scent
Filled with citrus trees, an assortment of flowers and a wide range of typical Cretan herbs, an authentic Cretan scent prevails the courtyard garden.
Awards & publications
