Interior Renovation Design, Kasteli Villa, Chania

In this interior renovation design endeavour situated in Kasteli, our cornerstone mandate was to expand the ground floor and optimize the plot’s buildable potential. This initiative was undertaken not only to align with the strict passive house requirements but also to harmonize with the lifestyle preferences of the property owners.

Originally, the structure comprised a modest Cretan residence spanning two stories. While its architectural alignment admirably captured the scenic vistas, it failed to allocate floor space towards the front and lateral aspects of the property. Our response involved integrating the pre-existing stone-built retaining wall, situated 2.5 meters from the house’s rear wall, into a novel floor plan.

Consequently, this adaptation yielded two additional bedrooms, along with an integrated open-plan entrance, kitchen, dining, living room, and fireplace enclave. The extension, featuring strategically positioned roof lights to facilitate natural illumination, established a symbiotic relationship with the stone wall while affording captivating sea views.

Particular emphasis was directed toward the materiality and minutiae of the property. The fireplace unit, ingeniously designed to house a sophisticated entertainment system alongside a fireplace, included alcoves for reading and outward observation.

To maintain congruence with the existing structure’s materials and ambiance, a subdued color palette was selected. Internally and externally, solid marble floors were laid to engender a linear, revitalized, yet serene atmosphere.

Thoughtful illumination schemes, incorporating both natural and artificial sources, were conceived in the project’s early stages to augment the occupant experience irrespective of time or weather conditions.

Critical technical elements were meticulously integrated to enhance the overall ambiance. For instance, the stone retaining wall, now an interior feature, underwent re-mortaring and waterproofing. Additionally, a provision was made for a gutter along its base, serving not only as a drainage mechanism but also as an atmospheric lighting solution.

Bedrooms adjoining the retaining wall incorporated materials and closets designed to facilitate humidity dissipation, featuring louvered cabinets and wardrobes instead of conventional panels.

In culmination, this design and construction initiative has successfully delivered a modernized and enriched Corfiot living experience, as attested by the accolades and feedback on various rental platforms.

Simultaneously, it honours the precedent set by prior work, transforming inherent challenges into distinctive advantages.