Cave houses in Mykonos

For the architectural firm The KS Project, the study, design, and construction of two cave houses in Koukoulou, Mykonos, was an extremely interesting and creative challenge.

The main design goal of our team was to make the least possible intervention in the natural landscape and, at the same time, achieve the complete integration of the houses into the existing ridge of the site.

The exterior of the two residences was framed by swimming pools and sitting areas, both outdoor and semi-outdoor. For the facades of the buildings, instead of the plaster that is usually preferred, stone cladding was chosen, which gives earthy tones and nuances to the two residences. In this way, we managed to harmonize with the landscape and give the impression that they become one with the environment.

Inside each of the houses, a single living space with a living room, dining room, and kitchen was created. However, the elements that played the most decisive role in shaping the interior are undoubtedly the patios, which were decorated with plantings. Therefore, not only was the aesthetic harmony of the inside with the outside achieved, but also the utilization of natural lighting for all areas, as well as ensuring natural ventilation inside the residences. At the same time, extensive sliding glass windows were placed on the free view of both houses that ensure an uninterrupted view of the impressive natural landscape of the island, which cover both the single living areas and the master bedrooms. Throughout the interiors, the minimal design with an emphasis on earth tones and warm hues creates an atmosphere of relaxation and tranquility, which accompanies the users of the residences to the outdoor spaces, where the swimming pools are located.

On the main face of the houses, semi-outdoor seating areas were created in recesses, so that they are as protected as possible. In the exterior, the most important elements, i.e., the boundaries of the houses and the swimming pools, were designed in such a way as to be in perfect harmony with the natural relief of the plot. This is the most important element of the design proposal created by The KS Project, aiming to achieve an organic geometry that moves away from orthonormal logic and approaches the philosophy of local traditional architecture, in which geometry emerges, ultimately, in reconciliation with the existing background, material, and non-material.

At the same time, thanks to the creation of flower beds and details with vegetation in scattered parts of the plot, the overall effect formed in the outdoor environment ensures a balance in which the natural landscape of Mykonos blends organically with the two cave dwellings.