This residence on Kos Island, Greece, was constructed from 1933 to 1935. It is a prime example of Italian architecture on the Dodecanese islands and stands out as one of the region's few remaining “case popolari” from the 1930s. The style combines Modernism with Mediterranean influences, drawing from Italian, Arabesque, and Cycladic architecture. This unique architectural style is rare and can only be seen in the Dodecanese islands, making it somewhat “endangered.”

Our main objective was to preserve the building’s distinctive aesthetic character. Additionally, we created a comfortable space that aligns with contemporary living standards while establishing earthquake resistance and energy efficiency.

The building had undergone severe damage and decay, primarily due to a leak in the ceiling slab that caused corrosion to the steel bars in the concrete frame. Meanwhile, human intervention had altered many of the building's original features, while the condition of others had deteriorated due to natural causes. We brought the building to “Eurocode 8” standards for earthquake resistance using the gunite method (applying concrete through pneumatic pressure from a gun).

During the repair of the front facade, our primary concern was to preserve its original morphological characteristics without compromising its integrity. We replaced the deteriorated woodwork with identical designs. The new color palette for the facade consists of various shades, including white, cream, olive green, and terracotta accents.

We reconstructed the rear facade, as human intervention had altered it beyond recognition. To salvage the original design, we constructed the double-arched windows, identical to the ones in the front facade.

The newly constructed outbuilding was designed to match the aesthetic character of the residence while incorporating unique features that distinguish the two construction phases. The outbuilding functions as both a laundry and storage room. An homage to Cycladic architecture, the arch is a distinctive decorative element. We studied the form, style, and structure of the residence’s contemporary era to design the arch.

In terms of interior design, the architectural elements take center stage. The bedroom's centerpieces are the double-arched windows, while the vintage tiling is reminiscent of the 1930s. We designed the kitchen and its cabinets to be ergonomic, focusing on flexibility and comfort for users. The white door is a new addition that matches the original aesthetics.

We took extraordinary measures to preserve the unique decorative details of the building. These elements are sometimes subtle and other times striking and scenographic. The woodwork, metalwork, and decorative use of concrete give the building soul. These distinctive elements blend Italian, Arabesque, and Cycladic motifs together into a modernist design.