The Athens based practice of Pieris Architects were bestowed with the prestigious A’Design Award in the category ‘Architecture and the Built Environment’ for their outstanding design for a sustainable holiday retreat on the island of Santorini, aptly named ‘Volcano Residence’. Pieris Architects is headed by siblings Pieros and Stella Pieris, two young professionals whose exceptional talent has been formally recognized throughout their academic and professional career, and of whom the distinguished architect and academic, Sir Peter Cook characterized as: ‘the most professionally memorable designers either now or over time’!
Volcano residence is situated in the Columbo, area of the island, near Oia, a place which enjoys stunning views of the crater of the underwater volcano for which the island is famed. The pure white 380 sq.m. structure follows the lines of the narrow site, a contemporary interpretation of the traditional architectural typology of the region. It appears to have developed from a series of interconnecting volumes each with individual openings dictated by the local climate and ensuring uninterrupted sea views. Its punctured sculptural form appears to have been ravaged by the customary high winds, its irregularities reference the very nature of its environment. The history of the island is interpreted within the design, the elegance of the arched roofs and rounded corners and a touch of humour in the domed roof of the first floor jacuzzi and finally a hint of luxury in the generous pool and deck area.
