The Holiday House
Limassol | Cyprus
The holiday house stands prominent at Lofou, a mountain community in the outskirts of Limassol, where most trails lead to the wine-producing villages of the region.
Dating back to the beginning of the 20th century, the existing structure is located at the high point of the uphill walking street and belongs to the village core, that is listed for preservation.
After many decades of neglect, the building and its courtyard were remodeled as a contemporary holiday residence for a family of four.
The refurbishment made use of local, traditional building crafts, seeking its integration into the village with its distinct character. Design gestures regarding the disposition of the new interiors are kept at a minimum, in line with the strong identity of the existing structure; concurrently, the dwelling is updated with contemporary amenities.
The substantial difference in altitude resulting from the downward sloping road required the structuring of the house in three levels. The entry level accommodates the living quarters and the courtyard; the second one houses the master bedroom on a mezzanine that doubles as balcony overlooking the common areas.
The third one, at the lowest part of the house, includes the secondary sleeping rooms. The interplay of levels results in the respective separation of functions, protecting the owners’ privacy and allowing unrestrained visual connection between the spaces.
The wall enclosure, built in local white stone, protects the atrium and accentuates the view towards the magnificent surrounding landscape.