Built in the center of a lush olive grove on the outskirts of Parga, the Monalia Parga Luxury Suites complex offers a luxurious retreat that supports a harmonious coexistence with the natural environment. The complex of underground residences has been designed with an emphasis on simplicity, natural materials, and integration into the landscape with the minimal possible footprint.
The plot has a steep slope, an olive grove with wild olive trees, and a stunning view of the Ionian Sea. Following the topography of the land, the complex is developed on two levels, integrating the underground constructions and ensuring unobstructed views of the sea. Drawing inspiration from the small building volumes of the area and traditional dry stone walls, each building consists of a stone mass that seems to emerge from the ground. The placement of the buildings in the landscape adapts to the layout of the olive grove, preserving most of the olive trees, while the rest are transplanted to the external areas of the residences, creating new planting spaces.
Upon arrival, visitors encounter the Reception Area, where the sea views are framed between the branches of the olive trees. There are two suites on the same level as the Reception, while the two villas are constructed on the higher second level. The suites (Gaea, Elea) feature a common design and consist of an open space that includes the bedroom, living room, kitchen, and a large bathroom. Outside, there is a covered seating area and a pool. The villas (Anthea, Galini) have a central open living and kitchen area and two bedrooms with en suite bathrooms. The courtyard includes a barbecue area, a covered dining space, built-in seating, and a pool, offering various ways to enjoy the landscape. All spaces have large openings on the main façade of the underground residences, providing ample natural light, ventilation, and unobstructed views of the magnificent landscape.
A key feature of the design is the carefully selected palette of natural materials, such as stone and wood, forged cement, and wicker. The exterior walls are clad in stone from the surrounding area, creating a visual continuity between the natural and built environments. The use of wood and warm colors, ceramics, and woven light fixtures evokes images and textures associated with outdoor summer life. Different patterns in the wooden ceiling constructions and varied designs in the custom furniture create a unique identity for each villa.
The complex is surrounded by a lush garden with low Mediterranean shrubs, which, combined with the tall olive trees, completes the composition of the underground residences. The foliage and chestnut wood pergolas provide ideal spaces for all-day outdoor living. The external dividing walls offer complete privacy and feature a distinctive pattern alternating forged cement and wood, highlighted at night by carefully designed artificial lighting.
The refined simplicity, integration with the slope of the land, and use of natural materials bring the complex into perfect harmony with its environment. Every corner has been designed as an opportunity for relaxation, exploration, and enjoyment of the landscape.
Team:
Architectural design – Supervision: G2lab Giannis & Giorgos Efthymiadis
Interior design: G2lab Giannis & Giorgos Efthymiadis
Landscape Design: G2lab Giannis & Giorgos Efthymiadis
Photo credits: Lefteris Kossaras
Branding: iframe communication design
Material Used:
1. Lighting Fixtures: KAFKAS
2. Rock Composition: Artworx
3. Interior-Exterior Tiles: Ioannis Antypas
4. BBQ: Broil King (BBQ.GR EE)
5. Pergola Coverings: Caneplex Design
6. Wooden Surfaces: Cleaf Kanelli
7. Mattresses: Greco Strom
8. Sofas: Dreamstrom
9. Linens: Guy Laroche
10. Fabrics: SARLAS
11. Curtains - Fabrics - Poufs: Delli Textile
12. Forged Cement: DUROSTICK
13. Electrical Material - Automation: KAFKAS
14. Indoor-Outdoor Furniture: Mexil, Collezione Imports
15. Pandanus Lights: PureYellow
16. Decorations: MAISON, ASTIR
