villa L

On a rectanglar plot in the Argolic plain outside Nafplio on the Peloponnese, enclosed by orange, mandarin and olive trees in an orthogonal grid, a single house consists of two clearly defined main volumes, one white and one black. Positioned one on top of the other, these volumes have a flat horizontal shape to follow the flat landscape of the plain and to emphasize the characteristic mountains surrounding it.

This composition of two volumes that correspond to the two floors of the house, is further enhanced by carving out several horizontal and vertical voids. The horizontal voids open up to the surrounding landscape and brings the garden into the house, while the vertical voids link the two floors and bring light into the interior. In contrary to the white and black main volumes these voids have more natural colours and materials.

On the ground floor are the living quarters where the elements of the interior participate with the concept: the main void, the fireplace and the staircase with the internal garden. Within the main volume protected verandas lead to the garden area. The top floor, much smaller in volume, contains the sleeping areas. The horizontal and vertical voids allow here for light and views, as well as protect the interior from the sunlight.