This specific project is a case study for the extension of a residence located in the outskirts of Kavala. The need for new, functional spaces created several design challenges that involved both the expansion and the management of the existing stone house, which was already on the plot.
The main challenge was to merge the old with the modern, harmonizing, uniting and highlighting the old building with the new. The new building volume is positioned parallel to the existing stone building and is connected via a glass corridor, functioning as an invisible joint, skilfully uniting the old with the new. This glass corridor creates an atrium between the two building volumes, creating a sense that the new building is at vicinity but also at a distance from the old one. The new addition is situated within the greenery, with the stone building serving as a backdrop, showcasing the natural beauty of the location.
For the existing volume, it was proposed to display the masonry by carefully re-exposing the stone to point up the stone mass. The careful reconstruction of the existing building includes the preservation of the wooden roof with the addition of steel tie rod trusses. New openings were created in the stone volume to better accommodate the current building functions, and a new typology of wooden frames was established, as a common design tool used in both buildings.
The functions of the residence were redefined and rearranged, creating a new living experience, emerging the outdoor living with the indoor. The main entrance of the residence frames the view towards the outdoor landscape, through the glass corridor and the large openings of the new building. The living area is situated at a lower level in the stone building creating a sense of a hug, while the kitchen and dining area are located in the continuation of the ground level, in the new volume, with a direct connection to the greenery.
In the new building volume is also located the owner’s ceramics workshop, which communicates unhindered with the rest of residence but also operates separately with an independent external entrance. The resting, more private area is located on the first level of the stone volume, while part of it extends through the glass corridor to the roof of the new volume, incorporating the natural landscape into the upper level. The rearrangement of building functions allows for better connection with the outdoor space.
The exterior space was carefully designed to integrate harmoniously with the residence, using elements such as stone, corten, green components, and water, creating an environment that meets modern needs and expectations. The rich greenery and outdoor spaces offer an oasis of tranquillity and relaxation.