Residential — 2024
Silent Villa
Athens, Vouliagmeni
Project Overview
Location
Athens, Vouliagmeni
Type
Residential
Area
420 m²
Year
2024
Duration
14 months
01
The Challenge
A young family wanted a contemporary home on a rocky coastal plot in Vouliagmeni — one of Athens' most coveted neighbourhoods. The site dropped 8 metres from road to shoreline, with exposed limestone formations that conventional builders would blast away. The clients insisted on preserving the natural rock and integrating the house into the landscape rather than imposing upon it, while achieving maximum energy efficiency.
02
Our Approach
Rather than fighting the terrain, we designed the house as three interconnected pavilions that step down the slope, with each level cantilevered over the rock formations below. The exposed limestone becomes interior feature walls in the living areas. Cross-ventilation channels were carved to follow the prevailing Meltemi wind patterns, and a geothermal system was integrated into the rock itself. Floor-to-ceiling glazing on the sea-facing facades maximises natural light while deep concrete fins provide passive solar shading.
03
The Result
Silent Villa was completed in 14 months — on schedule and within the original budget. Post-occupancy energy monitoring shows the home consumes 40% less energy than comparable villas in the area, thanks to the geothermal system and passive design strategies. The project was shortlisted for the Mediterranean Architecture Prize 2024 and has been published in three international architecture journals.
40%
Energy Savings
14 mo
Completion
100%
On Budget
3
Publications
Gallery
“After two years of living here, the house still surprises me. Every room responds to the light differently throughout the day. Our energy costs dropped 40% compared to our previous home, without sacrificing an ounce of comfort.”
Silent Villa — Vouliagmeni
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