An M.C. Escher Drawing Inspired This Crisp Grecian Retreat

Keren Dillard
·1 min read
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A network of stairs create a trompe l'oeil in the style of the famous graphic artist—but that’s not the only eye-catching element of this Kythnos Island getaway.

Similarly, from the grounds below, the home peeks out below in contrast with the sky.
Similarly, from the grounds below, the home peeks out below in contrast with the sky.

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Project Details:

Location:  Kythnos, Greece

Architect: Sigurd Larsen Design and Architecture

Footprint: 1615 square feet

Year Built: 2023

From the Architect:  "The house itself is inspired by Cycladic villages defined by vernacular white cubes held together by white stepped alleys. The cluster of four white cubes is set into the hillside at different heights, creating multiple panoramic views of the neighboring islands. The presence of the Cycladic archipelago and the ever changing color of the sea and sky can be experienced from everywhere in the house.

From the inside, the view of the small uninhabited Piperi Island is perfectly framed from all three beds, the bathtub, the dining table, and the sofa.

"Inspired by the drawings of M.C.Escher, one can move above, below and through the house in an infinite circle of steps.

"Two staircases connect the house to the water on each side of the peninsula. One path leads to the rocks and cliffs on the east, where one can jump into the sea, and the other takes you to a small sandy beach on the southwest side."

Although simple, the house has a striking impact on the site, inviting onlookers in through small penetrations in the blocky form.
Although simple, the house has a striking impact on the site, inviting onlookers in through small penetrations in the blocky form.
Similarly, from the grounds below, the home peeks out below in contrast with the sky.
Similarly, from the grounds below, the home peeks out below in contrast with the sky.
"The ever changing color of the sea and sky can be experienced from everywhere in the house. From the inside, the view of the small uninhabited Piperi Island is perfectly framed from all three beds, the bathtub, the dining table, and the sofa."
"The ever changing color of the sea and sky can be experienced from everywhere in the house. From the inside, the view of the small uninhabited Piperi Island is perfectly framed from all three beds, the bathtub, the dining table, and the sofa."

See the full story on Dwell.com: An M.C. Escher Drawing Inspired This Crisp Grecian Retreat
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