Rock Split at Kea Island: A Testament to Sustainable Mediterranean Architecture

Faidra Matziaraki Victor Gonzalez Marti's Award-Winning Design Marries Tradition and Innovation

The Rock Split house, a secondary home for a family of four, is defined by its pronounced and gradient form, dictated by the steep hill and the plot’s narrow dimensions. The building emerges from the mountain and overlooks the valley of Poisses, harmoniously blending with the surrounding traditional dwellings and the natural rocky context. The design is divided into three correlated volumes: the seating & kitchen volume, the circulation tower, and the sleeping & storage volume. These are surrounded by terraces at various levels, some nestled under the hill's surface, some at the same level, and some projected over it.

The unique strength of this design lies in its sustainable construction. The majority of the stone used was quarried from the site itself during excavation, thereby reducing the environmental impact. The house also incorporates traditional techniques for humidity control, with a gap between the rock and the building to drain waters from the mountains, keeping walls and foundations dry. Furthermore, the house includes an under-floor heating installation that circulates hot water, generated by the solar heaters installed on the roof. Cooling is achieved through cross ventilation, and rainwater is collected from the rooftops and stored in an underground reservoir.

The design process was not without its challenges. The steep and narrow site posed initial difficulties, and the project had to be approved by the archaeological department due to strict regulations in the Greek islands. However, these challenges ultimately had a positive impact on the design, pushing the team to create a building that respects its natural context and aligns with the traditional architecture of the island.

The Rock Split house is a testament to the beauty and functionality of sustainable Mediterranean architecture. It stands as a symbol of the harmonious coexistence between man-made structures and the natural environment. The project is a tribute to the modest but substantial Mediterranean living, demonstrating that with creativity and respect for tradition, it is possible to create designs that are both innovative and sustainable.

With its unique design and sustainable features, the Rock Split house is a deserving winner of the Silver A' Design Award in 2017. This prestigious award is given to designs that display outstanding expertise and innovation, and the Rock Split house certainly fits this description. It is a remarkable example of sustainable architecture, demonstrating that it is possible to create beautiful, functional homes that respect and enhance their natural surroundings.