Mountain Villas, Karpenisi
Mountain Villas, Karpenisi
The mountain villas are located in Karpenisi, a popular winter destination in Greece surrounded by mountains. The residential complex consists of two houses developed in two floors. Located on a steep slope with dense vegetation, they enjoy an impressive view towards the infinite horizon. The villas blend into their surroundings thanks to the natural materials used. The two building volumes, end up in inclined roofs, resembling the natural topography with gorges and mountains.
Architectural design
The design concept aims to accomplish a harmonious integration of the mountain villas complex into the unique surroundings. Moreover, the design treats the view as key factor for the development of the individual spaces of the complex. Generous openings on the main façade, offer magnificent views over the mountains. The balconies offer another opportunity to connect with the nature. Stone walls on the front and the rear of the plot, enclose the property and create small gardens. The wooden cladding on the walls of the mountain villas creates a raw yet impressive concept. Natural building materials achieve to integrate the villas complex into the natural landscape. Furthermore, they create harder or smoother “boundaries”. These are defined according to the desired sense of privacy or openness. In this way, the proper use of materials (stone / wood) plays a significant role.
At the same time, the particular form of the prismatic roofs of the mountain villas has a strong concept. It seeks both to converse with the mountain that surrounds the complex and to induct the topography into the inner space. In fact, there is the attempt to approach the concept of a “mountain-house” rather than the typical “house on the mountains”. The common outdoor space between the two mountain villas, is sheltered thanks to a pergola structure. Both houses have outdoor dining spaces located on generous terraces. These serve as a peaceful retreat, for those that enjoy being outside and experience the mountain.
The “Belvedere” formed in the midst of the promenade that leads to the houses is the crucial spot where the visitor stands at equal distance between the two major protagonists: the residential complex to the north and the astonishing view of the far horizon to the south.