Page 91 - Designing Ways 281

Seafront suite

Seafront suite
Gundari Resort

Folegandros, Greece

et in Folegandros, Greece, Gundari Resort by Block722 was
conceived to be at one with its precious, pristine environment.
SThe small Aegean Island is representative of its archipelago’s
natural beauty, defined by dramatic rocky hills, low Mediterranean
vegetation, and the sea’s endless blue horizon that make it the perfect,
contemplative escape. Gundari was designed to blend seamlessly
with this context – not only in its physical manifestation, such as
its minimalist volumes and material choices, but also in its perfect
synchronisation with the island’s slow way of life, offering guests the
luxury of time, mindfulness, and relaxation.

The client’s brief outlined an eco-resort, a hospitality complex that
is fully in tune with its surroundings, its light footprint respecting
the Cycladic Island’s breathtaking scenery and cultural heritage.
As a response, Block722, led by founders Sotiris Tsergas and Katja
Margaritoglou, envisioned an architecture that brings together
tranquillity and the gentle sense of adventure that makes the perfect
holiday. At the same time, everything is curated to draw on the
island’s visual and cultural language – from the colours used, which
were inspired by the surrounding sea and rocky outcrops; to the
materials’ anchoring effect; and the overall composition, which nods
to historic Aegean village formations.

Located on a generous cliffside site, Gundari was crafted as a family
of low structures, spread across the plot. Within it, a series of suites
are nestled into the softly undulating terrain, all orientated to offer
panoramic views towards the water. To achieve this, the complex
Photo credit: Shai Gil
was organised around two sections. One is almost invisible, nestled
into the earth and featuring green roofs; and the second, while above
ground, is still low and discreet. Among them, the main resort building
containing the reception and communal amenities sits slightly taller,

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