The Outdoor House, set along the tranquil shores of the Aegean Sea, captures the essence of simple living under the warm summer sun of Greece. The main element of the house is a large pergola that creates a welcoming space for enjoying the Mediterranean climate to the fullest; the open roof filters intense sunlight while allowing gentle breezes to circulate freely. It prevents the floor and stone walls from accumulating and radiating heat, ensuring a comfortable and cool environment even at the height of summer.
Emphasizing outdoor living, the house features an outdoor kitchen for cooking and dining under the open sky, complemented by an outdoor shower. Stone plinths provide seating for both dining and contemplation, seamlessly integrating with the natural surroundings. A movable dining table allows guests to adjust their meals according to the changing sun and breeze. At night, a small room made of local stone offers shelter from rain and wind, equipped with essential amenities like a bed, a workspace, and a toilet—making it the only heated space in the house for indoor living. The design encourages guests to embrace outdoor life while enjoying the island's nature and tranquility.
Serving as a guest house for the nearby Piperi House on Kythnos Island, the Outdoor House is perched on a hillside terrace, seamlessly integrated with the natural stone landscape. The entrance, which resembles a garden door, leads into a space with a framed view of Piperi Island, merging with the infinity terrace framed by two parallel stone walls. Here, the rocks and sea appear to blend, extending the island’s natural beauty onto the land. As one moves forward, the horizon expands, and The Outdoor House with its stone plinths appears.
In every aspect, The Outdoor House is an experiment in simplicity and harmony with the Cycladic nature. It strips living down to its essentials, providing a space where one can disconnect—and reconnect with the surroundings.
Team:
Architect: Sigurd Larsen Design & Architecture
Landscape Design: Sigurd Larsen Design & Architecture
Interior Design: Sigurd Larsen Design & Architecture
Contractor: Various local companies
Beds: Cocomat
Furniture: Sigurd Larsen Design & Architecture
Photo Credits: Kkrom Services
