The amalgamation of historical continuity and contemporary design defines the Drakoni House. Nestled in the proposed traditional settlement of Pines in Elounda, Crete, Greece, Drakoni House was originally built in 1864 by Mavrogiorgis Drakonakis, a stock and land farmer. This stone structure has remained in the Drakonakis family for over six generations. The house, named ‘Drakoni’ in honour of the family and the local hard stone ‘Akoni’ from which it is constructed, has undergone a meticulous restoration by the Athens-based Greek design studio Doriza Design. The project intertwines the rich historic heritage of the building with modern functional adaptations, transforming it into a captivating holiday home.

The village of Pines, where Drakoni House is located, has a history dating back to its first inhabitants, the Venetians, between 1400-1550 AD. The house itself is built around a pointed arch from that era. Originally, the house consisted of a single room and a courtyard and it experienced multiple expansions, until 1920, after which it remained uninhabited and was used as a stable for animals.

Doriza Design's approach to the restoration was deeply respectful of this historical legacy. The design strategy focussed on minimal external interventions, primarily restoring and reinforcing the stone masonry and reconstructing collapsed sections. The studio's primary goal was to adapt the building for modern use while preserving its essence. The restoration aimed to introduce natural light and fresh air into the house's core, creating inviting exterior sitting areas on the terrace.

The restoration of Drakoni House emphasises a balance between the old and the new. Externally, the interventions are subtle, maintaining the building's original silhouette and ensuring that any additions are discreetly marked and constructed using lightweight metal structures. This approach allowed for a clear distinction between the new elements and the existing structure, ensuring the reversibility of the changes.

Internally, the studio has retained a Venetian arch as its central feature. It is preserved in its entirety with the wear and patina of time. The two-room residence is organised around this arch, highlighting its historical significance. The interior walls are covered with hydraulic plaster where necessary, ensuring the building's air permeability. The design intentionally highlights signs of modernity, not to obscure them but to integrate them as part of the building's historical continuity.

One of the most striking modern interventions is the suspended metal staircase leading to the terrace. With its sculptural and material quality, the staircase stands in stark contrast with the dense stone walls, symbolising the project's intention to balance the old with the new. The use of oxidised metal and intentionally imperfect interior wall plaster further emphasises this balance, blending historical authenticity with contemporary design elements.

The interior design features multifunctional areas that maximise the limited space. The living area includes a bench-like seating arrangement, a fireplace and a kitchen counter, all tucked into the corners of the room. The bedroom, adjacent to the living space, features a bed flanked by a freestanding bath. Deep-set windows frame views of the surrounding landscape, while a small internal opening provides a visual connection between the two main spaces.

Doriza Design's approach to Drakoni House is a considered blend of preservation and innovation. By maintaining the building's historical character while incorporating modern design elements, the project ensures that Drakoni House continues to tell its story. The intentional deterioration and conscious imperfection in the construction materials create a harmonious balance, allowing the old and the new to coexist seamlessly.

The rooftop terrace, accessed via the metal staircase, features a lightweight pergola and a perforated metal parapet. This area provides a tranquil space for residents to sit and enjoy the surrounding village views, further enhancing the building's connection to its context.

Drakoni House is more than just a restored building; it is a living piece of history that has been thoughtfully adapted for modern use. Doriza Design's careful and respectful approach to the restoration ensures that the house remains a testament to the Drakonakis family's legacy and the rich heritage of the village of Pines. By blending historical continuity with contemporary design, Drakoni House shows a thoughtful blend of architectural integrity and timeless beauty, offering a unique and enriching experience for its residents and visitors alike.

Project Details

Name: Drakoni House
Location: Pano Pines, Elounda, Crete, Greece
Architects: Doriza Design
Design Team: Nefeli Matsouki Doriza, Spyros Matsoukis Dorizas
Year of Completion: 2023