Summer House Salamis / AREA Architectural Research Athens

Author: Yorgis Erolimbos

The area of this architectural project is105 m²The completion of the project was scheduled for2020 yearThe work utilized materials from various manufacturers, such as Alumil, BRIGHT, Cesi, Flor Gres, Ideal Standard, Komeal, Laria, Marmara Nikolis, QOOP, STELNIC, and Zangra. This information was provided by the architects.

The impact on project creation

The creation of this modest summer house on the island of Salamis, located in the Saronic Gulf near Athens, was primarily influenced by issues related to the site, its context, and the landscape. The history of the island is closely tied to its geographical features — in ancient times, the narrow straits separating the island from the mainland played a crucial role in the Battle of Salamis. At the same time, recent changes leading to the decline of the Greek shipbuilding industry create uncertainty about the future of this region.

Community and environment

Salamina, located at the intersection of land and sea, city and nature, serves as a reflection of uncertainty in its post-industrial environment. The island does not exhibit the typical features of popular resorts and draws attention with its unique community, which is focused on inner life.

Characteristics of the plot

The plot on which the house is located is small and flat, lacking impressive views and notable features. Its main advantages are onlyolive treeandwellThe architects approached the layout from the perspective of "introspection," developing a perimeter structure that gains its own independent qualities due to the climatic conditions and open spaces.

Design concept

In contrast to most permanent residences on the island, which often consist of temporary structures, the new summer house was designed as a concept of "subtraction" from a solid constructive volume, complemented by sculptural voids. Thus, the idea of vacationing is not about trying to bring back all the materials of familiar urban life, but rather a metaphor for liberation from burdensome things to enjoy tranquility in a home away from home.

Architectural solutions

The exterior walls of the house appear as a monolithic volume, concealing a courtyard in the center.

Flexibility of space

These rooms are equipped with floor-to-ceiling glass doors, which allows for a seamless connection between the interior and exterior spaces while managing movement through the yard. Maximum flexibility of movement is achieved when all the glass doors are open, including the entrance and exit at the back of the house. This creates a unified, continuous chain of open spaces throughout the property, visually dividing the house into two parts.

Private zones

“Private” zones (bedrooms, bathrooms, and service areas) are hidden within massive external walls in a series of small, cave-like spaces. These areas are complemented by secondary courtyards that provide light and porosity for the dense sequence of peripheral spaces. The guest wing operates independently from the rest of the house and is accessible through its own small courtyard, which also features an old well.

Conclusion

This project illustrates the captivating possibilities of design, allowing for the creation of a harmonious space that meets functionality while considering the characteristics of the surrounding environment. With a modern approach to architecture and attention to local traditions, the summer house on Salamina fully embodies the philosophy of seclusion and enjoyment of nature.