Terra Cotta All Suite Hotel is our proposal for the transformation of an existing building into a luxury 4 * hotel, consisting of 17 suites, on the beach of Pigadia in Karpathos. Morphologically, the building has been designed to acquire a special character, exuding a modern aesthetic, implementing elements of the local traditional fortification architecture in its individual architectural vocabulary.

Inspired by elements used in Karpathos’ traditional architecture as well as its influences from both Asia and Crete, the use of exposed brick was implemented on the main West facade in a zigzag lined panel, as a reference to the traditional villages’ fortified architecture of the island. This intervention on the facade aimed on maintaining the unobstructed sea view – an element of utmost importance for a seasonal hotel – while providing privacy between the rooms.

The common areas of the hotel were designed from scratch with the goal of both functional and aesthetic upgrade. Special emphasis was given to the reception and entrance area. Thus, with the use of a large canopy, its location was highlighted, while offering the corresponding shading in the living areas.

The rooms were designed using as inspiration the elements of the rich decoration of the Karpathian house, where the predominant materials were the carved wooden constructions in the sofas (wooden lofts), the embroidery and textiles with the exquisite folk art motifs, the colourful porcelain dishes and the “mastrapades” (copper drink-serving utensils). In terms of colour, intense earthy but bright shades of russet and beige were chosen, while the choice of Venetian terrazzo in a modern rendering, is in direct reference to the history and influences of the island.