Mavrogia House, a project by Toledano + Architects, is an exquisite residential retreat nestled in the untamed beauty of Agios Pavlos, located in southern Crete, Greece. Designed by principal architect Gabrielle Toledano, this sustainable home harmoniously integrates with its surroundings, making the most of the site’s steep topography and breathtaking views of the sea. With a commitment to minimizing its visual impact, Mavrogia House embodies discreet luxury and environmental responsibility.
Situated on a site with direct access to the beach, the design of Mavrogia House takes full advantage of its unique location. The upper floor, a long linear structure, is cleverly camouflaged from the top, creating a subtle presence. The semi-buried lower floor, only revealed from the shore, maintains the discreet nature of the construction while accommodating the extensive program and spacious interiors.
Recognizing the strong sun and high temperatures of Crete, the design incorporates patios and covered terraces to provide optimal comfort during the summer months. These well-ventilated and shaded areas allow residents to enjoy the outdoors while shielding them from the elements. Expansive sliding glass doors enable seamless integration between the living areas and outdoor spaces, while strategically placed stone walls act as windbreakers.
Given the challenging site access and limited resources in the region, sustainability was a key consideration in the design process of Mavrogia House. The house operates as a passive structure, generating all its required energy through solar panels installed on the upper part of the site. A highly efficient heating and cooling system is provided by a pump, while rainwater harvesting ensures water conservation and reuse.
Incorporating local materials and traditional craftsmanship was a fundamental aspect of the design approach. The stone used in the construction perfectly matches the site’s natural color palette. Wood sourced from Crete and indoor marble from the region add warmth and elegance to the interiors. The use of “Patiti” a Greek material similar to polished concrete, creates continuous floors, blending seamlessly with the overall design.
Designed for a blended family, the layout of Mavrogia House considers various scenarios and promotes versatility. The top floor encompasses the living areas, including the kitchen, living room, and dining room, along with a master suite. These spaces are separated by a patio covered by a wooden pergola and a semi-circular wall, providing protection from north winds. The top floor can function independently, eliminating the need to open or condition the lower floor, thus reducing energy consumption.
The lower floor comprises five bedrooms, three of which are accessible from within the main house, enhancing comfort during winter months. The remaining two bedrooms form an independent guest wing and can be reached through a second covered patio featuring helicoidal stairs. This thoughtful distribution caters to the needs of a blended family and ensures privacy and flexibility for all residents.
Mavrogia House exemplifies the seamless integration of architecture and nature, creating a sustainable and luxurious retreat in the wild and scenic region of Agios Pavlos, Crete. With its discreet design, use of local materials, and passive energy systems, this residence showcases how thoughtful architecture can harmonize with its surroundings while providing a haven of comfort and tranquility for its occupants.
