Greek design studio Kapsimalis Architects has converted a wine cellar first built in the 19th century into what is how the Summer House in Mesaria. This is now a holiday home in Santorini with two vaulted rooms and sculptural white forms that extend outwards from the hillside. From the exterior, it is made up of blocky white forms that are softened along the edges opens up with arched details, and has a gated courtyard at the front.
Co-founder of the studio, Alexandros Kapsimalis explains, "The original building was an abandoned wine cellar, though its internal space and old equipment remained intact. The building was an old subterranean wine cellar or canava, common in this kind of rural settlement, which consisted of two interior vaulted spaces, a small exterior yard and a flat terrace on the top. In terms of the architectural restoration, the main facade, the exterior staircase and yard, the interior subterranean vaulted spaces, and also the previous trails are entirely kept."
Wine Cellar-Converted Summer Homes
Kapsimalis Architects Designs the Summer House in Mesaria
Trend Themes
1. Heritage Property Conversions - Adaptive reuse of historical structures offers unique and authentic residential experiences.
2. Sculptural Architectural Forms - Employing sculptural design elements in architecture creates visually intriguing and distinctive living spaces.
3. Subterranean Living Spaces - Designing homes that utilize underground spaces can provide innovative solutions for sustainability and land use efficiency.
Industry Implications
1. Real Estate Development - There is growing potential in transforming historical sites into modern luxury dwellings.
2. Architectural Design - Integrating traditional and contemporary designs presents opportunities for unique home aesthetics.
3. Luxury Travel and Hospitality - Converting heritage buildings into upscale vacation rentals caters to a niche market seeking exclusive experiences.