The present study deals with the architectural design of a small, double-storey detached house. The particular structure can function either as a permanent residence or as a vacation house, providing comfortable accommodation to four people. The house plan is articulated mainly according to two long zones. The narrower zone covers the north side of the plan and includes all the auxiliary spaces. The second, wider zone, occupies the south section of the plan and includes all main living spaces. The house develops in three floor levels. The living and dining room, the kitchen, a bathroom and the staircase are situated on ground level. Two bedrooms, which share the second bathroom, are situated in the first floor. The staircase also leads to the basement, which is configured as a storage/office space, while also including a separate small boiler room.

The entrance to the residence is made from the north side, while right above the entrance door a small balcony projects, functioning as a cover at the same time. On the north side of the house are also situated all the auxiliary spaces, such as the bathrooms and the staircase. On the contrary, the living and dining room, the kitchen, as well as the two bedrooms are situated on the south side. The use of large openings on the south side of the house permits ample solar exposure of spaces throughout the day, while at the same time satisfying the need of occupants for unobstructed visual contact with the outdoor. On the east side, small windows are placed in order to secure proper lighting and ventilation for the bathrooms, while a large part of the western wall of the house, extending vertically and spanning two floor levels, is covered with glass blocks, permitting soft, indirect illumination of the staircase.

The leading design principles have been functionality, simple form and reduction of size, standardisation and repetition of the same building elements wherever possible. All these principles aim at achieving a faster and more cost effective construction of the house. This is also the reason for choosing a conventional construction method with the load bearing structure made from reinforced concrete, masonry made from bricks and plaster covering walls and structure. The choice of a flat roof, instead of a pitched roof, contributes to giving the impression that the house has the form of a cube.

Architectural Design: Panagiotis Zakkas, Architect

Project Year: 2016