Cecropia House

An existing water well beside an old shed played a key role in the decision to acquire the property. In the past, the owners used this well to irrigate a vegetable garden. Drawn to the area, the clients requested a holiday home that contrasts sharply with city life and supports off‑grid living, since the site lies far from local utilities.

The design positions the house low on the site to fully screen it from the road above. At the same time, it places the building near the cliff edge to maximize views toward the sea and surrounding islands. Two flat areas shape the site: a larger upper plateau and a smaller lower terrace closer to the cliff. These areas run parallel to the contours and reduce the need for extensive excavation.

Local stone forms the rear of the house and reflects the material language of the nearby ancient town. This stone volume anchors the hillside and accommodates all service areas. A steel structure completes the remaining volume. Finished in silver tones, it blends with the surrounding mountains and gives the house a timeless character. A gradual stair follows the natural slope and leads to the central courtyard. Circulation flows continuously from the mountain down to the sea, just as light and air move freely through the spaces.

The sustainable strategy places all technical systems at the top of the property, where flat terrain allows efficient installation. The design carefully weaves together the plateau, the existing well, and the optimal cliff‑edge position. This upper area hosts a horizontal geothermal system and photovoltaic panels integrated into the landscape. A simple carport provides shaded summer parking and minimizes visual impact. Utilities run discreetly along the concrete steps. Throughout the process, the design preserves the natural landscape without disturbance.