Lofos

LOFOS is a holiday house on a hilltop in Paros, designed as a secluded family retreat away from the island’s touristic areas. Nestled within an agricultural landscape of olive groves and goat farms, it sits along an old mountain path, following the topography contours. Roofscapes and terraces provide endless views, offering immersive, experiential connections with the surroundings. Constructed with natural materials and carefully sited, the house fosters tranquility and privacy, where architecture and landscape coexist harmoniously, creating a serene escape in direct dialogue with nature.

LOFOS faced the challenge of creating a summer retreat that engages with Paros’s hilltop topography while respecting the surrounding agricultural and goat-farming activities. The family sought privacy and a deep connection with nature, while the house needed to remain unobtrusive to passersby along the old mountain path. Instead of creating a building that stands out as a far-viewed image, the strategy was to design a “timid” landscape architecture that follows the land’s contours, embedding the house into the terrain and minimizing its visual impact, in contrast to the flashy, attention-seeking trend of local tourist developments. Roofscapes and terraces provide experiential spaces with panoramic sea views, encouraging exploration and reflection. Using natural materials and careful siting, the house harmonizes with the rural context, offering a tranquil retreat that celebrates privacy, functionality, and the immersive beauty of Paros.

LOFOS was constructed using locally sourced materials and traditional techniques, with local builders ensuring the structure adapts while minimizing environmental impact. The terrazzo flooring from a local manufacturer, chosen for its durability and low maintenance. Windows are timber from a local supplier, with high-performance thermal specifications. Structural walls are built with high-insulation bricks, partially embedded into the hillside to reduce sun exposure, and faced externally with local stone. Roofs are planted, providing thermal regulation. Passive design strategies, including careful orientation and high-performance insulation, ensure comfort during heatwaves. Terraces, roofscapes, and pathways are designed for minimal upkeep. Plantation with endemic flora requires minimal watering. Rainwater is collected for reuse. Maintenance includes pruning and minor touch-ups to plaster and windows, ensuring the building remains durable and fully harmonious with the environment.