Uncovering the Beauty Behind the Summer Residence in Imerovigli
Uncovering the Beauty Behind the Summer Residence in Imerovigli
Understanding the Genius of Kapsimalis Architects’ Natural Creations
Project:
Summer Residence in Imerovigli
Architects:
Kapsimalis Architects
Location:
Imerovigli (Santorini), Greece
Photography:
Yiorgos Kordakis
Words:
Marissa Stempien
We say a picture is worth a thousand words. And even in a wash of monochromatic whites, Kapsimalis Architects write an essay with their Summer Residence in Imerovigli. But images alone do not capture the story of this architectural treasure that pays homage to the history, culture, and terrain of Greece.
Based in Santorini, Kapsimalis Architects use the rough volcanic landscape as their canvas. Greece is home to no shortage of inspiration, from ancient concepts to environmental influences, they work with the landscape, natural materials, and diverse weather conditions to create harmonious and unexpected works of art. Seeing buildings and structures as integral parts of the landscape, especially on an island like Santorini, they use their architecture to contribute to the views and scenery of a locale, albeit with a modern flourish. This interpretation of the landscape can be seen in the Summer Residence in Imerovigli
At first glance, the residence looks like a simple picturesque getaway—azure Aegean below, rocky terrain parallel, stellar views surrounding, but the genius of the space lies just below the surface. This vacationer’s paradise is built directly into the volcanic rock of the cliffside. Once a cave home, it has been reborn into a masterpiece of architecture and design. Sitting on the side of an extinct volcano, the architects worked to keep most of the structure of the original home, so areas like the bathroom are deeper in the earth, but the living room, kitchen, and bedrooms are flooded with natural light and offer exceptional views.
With a monochromatic colorway, vaulted ceilings, and natural light, there is so much visually to take in that decor was kept as simple and minimalistic as possible. The draw here is the shape, structure, silhouette of the home itself, and the play of light and shadow along the white-washed walls. Of course, the three swimming pools just make this perfect getaway even better.
