Ikies 3 is located on the coast of Alykes in the city of Volos, Greece. The project suggests a housing complex comprised of three dwellings meant for touristic use. The three volumes are arranged linearly and oriented towards the sea while separated by the distinct exposed concrete walls. A key feature of the almost identical double-floored dwellings is the permeability of the open-plan ground floor that is flooded by natural light, through the large skylights adjacent to the exposed concrete walls. That way, the linear development of the form is highlighted and views to multiple directions are provided that also act as a connecting element between the two floors.
The first residence, placed on the east side of the plot, is accessed from the street. Upon arrival, the visitor encounters the common area with the unique corner glass window that offers a panoramic view of the sea. The second and third dwellings are accessible through the back garden and as the visitor enters the common area, they immediately notice the view of the sea from across. The living room is extended visually with the front porch, as the large window opening blends the boundaries between the indoor and outdoor spaces. The metal staircase that is hung from the exposed concrete wall allows access to the bedrooms on the top floor. In all three dwellings, the large, glazed opening of the ground floor continues to the first floor providing once again a direct view of the sea from the master bedrooms. Each dwelling’s balcony maintains the privacy of the tenants and forms three repetitive white cubes which burst outwards and disrupt the uniformity of the sea-oriented façade. The balcony of the corner house continues and extends throughout the length of the east façade of the building. A perforated wall (claustra) placed on the east edge is another means to provide privacy and shade while emphasizing the building’s linearity.
The main materials employed for the project were exposed concrete, metal, and white plaster. Each dwelling was accommodated with a small private pool placed in the garden that looks at the sea. Finally, the plot is surrounded by a short concrete fence to prevent from blocking the view from the ground floor.
Photography: Ioanna Roufopoulou
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