This residence in the area of Kolossi Castle (Cypress) is inspired and informed by the typology of the koulas – i.e. medieval watchtower. Inspired by the compact form and small openings typical of the koulas, the design by Alex Papadopoulos features a main tower volume with a low lying linear volume positioned adjacent. The siting of the building volumes and the positioning of openings and outdoor spaces were determined based on the location of existing olive trees, which were considered important elements to retain.
The main volume of the residence comprises two floors of indoor space with a third level roof garden that is open to the sky. The linear volume with a contrasting form and materiality provides additional functional space for the home while also highlighting the verticality of the main volume.
The monolithic interior and exterior walls of the main volume are prefabricated double walls made of reinforced concrete. Free of any columns or beams, the concrete walls were cast with robot control in metal moulds. The result is a perfectly smooth surface and a construction method that could be assembled on-site with a crane in three days. Thermal insulation and services specifically for each space are situated between the two sides of the concrete walls.
The nature of the building’s prefabricated concrete construction is reflected in the interior concept. The interior walls of the main volume are in concrete while the walls of the linear volume are finished wood, which is also used for the volume’s structure.
Vibrant red fixed furniture generates a sense of liveliness to the interior while contrasting with the wood and concrete backdrop. Lighting fixtures in the same colour tones act as unifying elements that tie the interior spaces together.
