lama house
Architect: Elina Kritikou - Kenzo Yamashita
Design Team: Marina Georgiou, William Mondejar
Client: Private
Type: Residential
Location: Limassol - Cyprus
Area: 500 sqm
Stage: Construction
Design: 2019
The House is designed to merge in the Landscape, while also having a strong, prominent image. Since there is a relatively big height difference between the two sides of the Plot, this difference needed to be absorbed in the design, so that the building is correclty placed in the landscape. The two sides of the Plot are treated in opposite ways, creating excavations and raised platforms where needed. A wrapping element defines the interior space of the house. This Architectural composition created by this element frames the view towards the sea. Lastly, the volume on the top unifies the design and defines open and covered areas.
All rooms and amenities face South, with linear elements directing all focus towards the Sea (South). The immediate relationship between the back and the front, translates into a transparent design, allowing views and light to flow into the interior. The house comprises of an open plan living room and dining room, semi open plan kitchen, secondary living areas, outdoor relaxation areas and dining areas, a swimming pool, and exterior as well as interior gardens.
All the main spaces are immediately connected to each other, while they all have direct view to the Garden. The semi open plan kitchen though is visually separated from the living and dining space, and becomes a more independent room. The First Floor includes four double bedrooms with two shared bathrooms, a master bedroom (including a shower & walking closet). The basement includes a capacious parking area for three cars. All the bedrooms are arranged in a linear manner, so that all have views unobstructed views towards the sea. The corridor connecting the bedrooms becomes a bridge, with views to the ground floor dining and living areas. This treatment brings light to the back side of the first floor, and creates a more interesting journey from one side to the other.
Very few materials are used, to compliment the simplicity of the design. The prominent concrete walls give privacy, while complimenting the strong, monumental nature of the house. Materials like marble and travertine are used to radiate luxury and add to the contemporary yet luxurious character of the house. Black Aluminium panels enclose parts the house, creating playful elevations and intersecting volumes. The earthy palette used comes in contrast with these dark - colored surfaces, giving the house a unique identity. The pale, naturally pigmented colors are used to create a warm, light atmosphere, while they compliment the simplicity of the design. The dark metal on the other hand, has a strong appearance and gives a stronger image to the house.
Green Zones are integrated in the space, creating a more transparent design. The green areas bring nature and light into the interior and connect the two sides of the plot. Furthermore, the void connecting the two floors allow light into the interior making the space brighter and create a more vibrant atmosphere.
