Reviving Tradition: The Peloponnese Rural House by Ivana Lukovic

Blending Industrial Aesthetics with Rural Charm in a Sustainable Dwelling

Located in the remote village of Kalamia, Greece, the Peloponnese Rural House is a testament to Ivana Lukovic's architectural prowess. The design, which started in September 2016 and was completed in July 2019, is a harmonious blend of industrial aesthetics and rural charm. The house's design was inspired by the industrial feel of traditional stone stables, characteristic of the Peloponnese rural areas. The use of natural materials such as reclaimed local stone, grey roof tiles, black aluminum facade windows frames, and washed-wood handmade shutters, gives the house a unique, contemporary yet rustic appeal.

The house's unique properties lie in its strategic positioning and design. Despite the plot size of only 300m2, Lukovic managed to create a spacious garden area by placing the 141m2 dwelling at the upper part of the property, next to the access road. The house presents a humble, stone stable-like appearance from the street side, discreetly fitting into the rural surrounding, while developing into a two-level prominent construction seen from the garden. This design approach not only maximizes space but also provides a stunning view of the sea.

One of the key strengths of the Peloponnese Rural House is its sustainable design. Lukovic used craftsmen and natural materials within a 100-mile radius of the construction site, contributing to environmental benefits and the local economy. The reclaimed stone, applied on the elevations and at the entrance level interior space, was sourced from a nearby storage and supplemented with new stone from a local quarry. The washed wood shutters were handmade in recycled wood and black metal frame. The floor surfaces were covered with cement mortar in two shades, created on-site, along with custom-made plywood furniture.

The house's design also promotes interaction with nature. The entrance level represents a communal area that relates through large openings to the outdoor observation platform, perfect for stargazing and experiencing the sea view. The garden level features slab's perforations that allow for the intertwining of natural and artificial light, creating a cave-like atmosphere. The bedrooms and guest suite have garden access through two courtyards that also serve as contemplation places. A detached stone and metal construction allows for alfresco cooking and dining.

Despite bureaucratic challenges and the remote location, Lukovic, along with her team of architects, Alexandra Arampatzi, Kostas Geranios, and Orestis Mpormpantonakis, managed to create a high-quality, custom-made space from scratch, without compromising the initial architectural proposal. The Peloponnese Rural House is not just a dwelling but a retreat that has provided its inhabitants safety and comfort, especially during the 2020 pandemic situation.

The Peloponnese Rural House's unique design and sustainable approach have earned it the Silver A' Architecture, Building and Structure Design Award in 2021. This award is given to top-of-the-line, creative, and professionally remarkable designs that illustrate outstanding expertise and innovation. The house is a perfect example of how traditional inspiration can be transformed into a contemporary, sustainable dwelling, contributing to the richness of architectural design.