An Eco-Haven Overlooking the Libyan Sea
Sfakia, Chania Region, Crete / 2025
Perched gracefully above the shimmering blues of the Libyan Sea, Horizon Nest is a one-level villa that redefines coastal living through the lens of sustainable and biophilic design. Designed to blend with the rugged charm of southern Crete, this tranquil escape celebrates simplicity, authenticity, and nature-inspired architecture.
Designing with the Land, Not Against It
Our vision was to gently carve the landscape into habitable areas, without altering the existing topography—leaving the plot as undisturbed as possible. By conceptualizing the site as a flexible grid, we divided the living zones into private and public domains, guided by a series of contextual filters such as sea views, solar orientation, natural circulation, and material expression.
A Courtyard That Breathes
This site-sensitive approach gave rise to a welcoming central courtyard, acting as the connective tissue between indoor and outdoor living. It gradually opens up to the breathtaking sea horizon, while stepped landscaped terraces form naturally defined areas for the BBQ, pergola, and horizon pool.
Contemporary Forms, Timeless Materials
Following the natural slope of the land, the master bedrooms and guesthouse have been strategically positioned to ensure unobstructed sea views, seamless internal flow, and expansive private decks. The contemporary architectural lines are softened by the use of traditional materials: the ground-level walls are crafted using local stone drywall techniques, while the upper volumes are finished in smooth white plaster—a deliberate gesture to emphasize the panoramic views rather than the built form.
A Place to Reconnect
The environmental ethos of Horizon Nest is grounded in minimal impact and maximum harmony. Existing trees and vegetation were preserved, while the villa’s layout promotes natural cross-ventilation and optimizes solar gain and shading strategies throughout the seasons.
This is not just a home—it is a biophilic retreat that invites calm, connects with nature, and stands as a testament to the idea that luxury and sustainability are not only compatible, but complementary.
