Canaves Oia Epitome by K-Studio
In May 2018, Santorini welcomed a new kind of luxury in form of Canaves Oia Epitome. Perched above the picturesque fishing town of Ammoudi, the property by K-Studio is inspired by traditional Cycladic architecture, combining natural and earthy materials with modern design and style. It is the only property on the island that offers both sea and sunset views from the privacy of each of the 24 luxury villas.
About Canaves Oia Epitome
Unveiling CanavesOia Epitome: Santorini’s Gem
Renowned for its elegance, Santorini’s Canaves resort brand already boasts immense success. So, when tasked with designing their new venture, the CanavesOia Epitome, we quickly grasped its distinctive potential. Remarkably, this site offered spellbinding sunset views, free from the tight spatial constraints typical of the Caldera.
Reshaping Architectural Vision
Initially, we were confronted with a looming concrete and brick structure. Hence, our immediate challenge was to creatively reinvent without expanding its footprint. The preliminary plan, which was arguably oversized for Santorini, suggested a U-shaped layout comprising 24 rooms, a restaurant, and a reception in three distinct blocks. Admittedly, it felt both oversized and detached from its serene surroundings. Consequently, we opted to fragment this large mass into more manageable units, strategically scattering them for a seamless blend with nature.
Subsequently, this re-envisioned strategy brought about a revolutionary shift in room design and the overall site blueprint. Specifically, we shifted the entrance upwards, seamlessly relocating it with the dining area. This ingenious tweak not only amplified the reception’s grandeur but also conveniently positioned the dining and bar area adjacent to the inviting pool. Moreover, another highlight was the introduction of a secondary eatery. Nestled under a sprawling pergola, it offers its own entrance and beckons guests with breathtaking sunset views from the adjacent pool terrace.
Cycladic Craftsmanship Meets Contemporary Comfort
In terms of room design, our primary aim centered on crafting illusionary spaciousness. This transformative restructure, therefore, birthed a harmonious blend of enclosed and semi-enclosed spaces. Evoking the essence of traditional Cycladic designs, it’s an ideal refuge from Greece’s balmy summers.
Thoughtfully crafted extensions, made from indigenous stone, effectively blur the barrier between the indoors and the outdoors. Furthermore, every room now introduces an entrance courtyard, complete with an outdoor shower and a practical de-sanding zone. At the other end, a stone-framed external dining spot offers views to private pools through grand arches. Stone barriers encircle terraces, guaranteeing privacy, shade, and protection from unpredictable breezes, all the while framing unobstructed sea vistas. With these enhancements and a tiered 4-bedroom layout, rooms transform into villa-like sanctuaries perfect for family escapades.
Our design palette prominently features robust, black Santorinian stone, mirroring the untouched landscape. These stone-clad structures, complemented with ancient olive trees and judiciously positioned boulders, ground the hotel in its natural surroundings. This incorporation not only effectively camouflages the initial concrete footprints but also augments the overall aesthetic appeal.
In conclusion, the CanavesOia Epitome is a harmonious blend of local allure and traditions. It radiates relaxation, unparalleled comfort, and a cherished sense of seclusion, setting it apart in a coveted location.
Photography by Christos Drazos
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- by Matt Watts
