AURA /A Sensitive Renovation of an Old House
This project was conceived with the intention of giving new life to a deteriorating house in the coastal Peloponnese, set within a landscape rich in history, abundant natural light, and strong visual connections to the surrounding seascape.
Restoration Concept
ARCHITECTURAL TRANSFORMATION
The building, a 1960s residence developed over three habitable levels plus a basement, originally featured a fragmented spatial organization, with small, dark rooms and a layout no longer suited to contemporary living. The intervention involved a complete renovation, aiming to modernize the house while preserving its rustic character and unpretentious identity.
The design concept is based on a careful balance between local tradition and modernity. Respect for the original architecture was combined with a substantial reconfiguration of the interior spaces through the introduction of new openings. These interventions enhance natural light, expand views toward the sea and the forest, and strengthen the relationship between interior and exterior spaces.
Spatial Organization
INDEPENDENT LIVING UNITS
The house is conceived as three autonomous units, making it ideal for use as a holiday residence. Each level is equipped with its own bathroom and kitchenette, allowing the floors to function independently.
The main level (first floor) hosts the primary living space, featuring a generous open-plan layout with kitchen, dining area, and lounge, as well as a master bedroom with an en-suite bathroom.
The ground floor and second floor accommodate two more compact guest units, each with a bedroom and private bathroom. A fully equipped kitchenette is located on the ground floor, while the second floor includes a small refreshment area with a fridge and minibar, intended for lighter use.
Outdoor Living
MATERIALS & PRESERVATION OF IDENTITY
Special attention was given to the outdoor spaces, which were enhanced through the extension of concrete slabs and the addition of new pergolas. These interventions allow the exterior areas to be used throughout the day and extend the living spaces toward the surrounding landscape.
The façade remains largely unchanged. A soft off-white finish was selected, and some deteriorated decorative elements were removed to achieve a cleaner and more refined appearance, while fully respecting the original character of the building.
One of the most distinctive features of the house was its original cement tile flooring in deep petrol-blue and ochre tones. Wherever the tiles were in good condition, they were carefully preserved and reused, creating decorative floor “rugs” that celebrate the history of the house and establish a dialogue with the new materials.
The material palette and overall aesthetic are simple yet sophisticated, resulting in a calm and welcoming atmosphere. The house is perfectly suited for summer living, while also offering comfort and quality throughout the year.
This project demonstrates how a deteriorating building can be thoughtfully renewed and adapted to contemporary living, without losing its identity or sense of place.
Why AURA is a Thoughtful Coastal Renewal
Contextual Respect :
Preservation of the original 1960s character combined with a refined contemporary reinterpretation.
Spatial Reconfiguration :
Introduction of new openings and layout restructuring to enhance natural light and sea views.
Independent Living Concept :
Three autonomous levels with private bathrooms and kitchenettes, ideal for flexible holiday use.
Indoor–Outdoor Extension :
Expanded terraces and pergolas strengthen the connection with the surrounding landscape.
Material Memory :
Original cement tiles carefully preserved and reused as decorative floor features.
Reimagine Your Coastal Retreat
AURA reflects a balanced Mediterranean way of living—calm, luminous, and deeply connected to its surroundings. Let us bring your property to life through sensitive renovation, material authenticity, and contemporary spatial design.
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