The Linear: A Harmonious Blend of Design and Nature

Christos Pavlou's Award-Winning Architectural Masterpiece

The inspiration for The Linear was drawn from the linearity of vineyards and olive groves. The house is structured along a longitudinal axis, mirroring the landscape and establishing a harmonious relationship with the ecosystem. This design choice not only echoes the linearity of nature but also optimizes sun orientation, summer breezes, and views.

What sets The Linear apart is its unique linear typology. This design approach ensures unobstructed views for all rooms, fostering a strong connection between the inhabitants and nature. The house features a sliding sun-blocking aluminium screen, a double-height living space with glazed bridges, and a strong, simple silhouette that surrenders to its natural environment.

The Linear was realized using locally produced materials, reflecting Cyprus's rich limestone resources. The frame structure is made of reinforced concrete, while additional structures are made of steel. The contrast between heavy and light finishes is evident in the use of marble stone for floors, clay thermal bricks for outer walls, wooden flooring for outdoors, and timber cladding for some walls and staircases inside.

With a site area of 1517 sq.m. and a building area of 607 sq.m., The Linear is a testament to thoughtful and sustainable design. The house follows a series of spaces along a pathway, establishing a strong connection between the activities within the house and nature. The mesh sun-screen on the first floor remodels the house's appearance, appearing solid and protective during the day and light and transparent at night.

The project, which started in 2015 in Limassol, Cyprus, and finished in 2018, faced the challenge of establishing a relationship between the building and nature. This was achieved by adopting a linear typology where all rooms have views through big openings, highlighting the connection with nature. The house also incorporates passive solar concepts, including photovoltaic, solar panels, cross and chimney stack ventilation, orientation, and shading devices to reduce solar gains.

In recognition of its innovative design and sustainable approach, The Linear was awarded the Golden A' Architecture, Building and Structure Design Award in 2020. This prestigious award is granted to marvelous, outstanding, and trendsetting creations that reflect the designer's prodigy and wisdom, embodying extraordinary excellence and significantly impacting the world with their desirable characteristics.