hillside retreat by aristides dallas architects in antiparos, greece
Terra Fracta, designed by Aristides Dallas Architects, is a residence nestled into the hillside of Antiparos Island, Greece. The home is entirely subterranean, with two distinct sections: the main residence and the guesthouses. Slanted roofs define these sections, forming triangular shapes that rise gently from the earth, creating a sleek silhouette. Local stone and concrete contribute to the raw, natural aesthetic of the building, establishing a strong connection with its surroundings.
all images by CUUB Studio, courtesy of Aristides Dallas Architects
Terra Fracta steps into the hill to disappear into the landscape
Athens- and Tinos-based Aristides Dallas Architects draws from the natural topography of the site. The northern part of the plot remains undeveloped, preserving the land and keeping the building unobtrusive. Instead of sprawling outward, the structure steps into the hill, with courtyards and floor levels that connect the interior with the land around it, creating a sense of openness and privacy at the same time. The home is oriented to maximize views to the northwest and northeast, offering glimpses of the sea while keeping the focus on the surrounding hills.
Access to the residence is also a unique feature. Visitors approach Terra Fracta via an underground path that cuts through the mountain, leading them to a rear entrance. This path ends with a stunning view of the ocean, creating a surprising connection to the sea from the interior. Everything about the design is about raw, minimal forms that let the landscape take center stage.
Terra Fracta is nestled into the hillside of Antiparos Island
the home is entirely subterranean, with two distinct sections
slanted roofs form triangular shapes that rise gently from the earth
