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Mura

Location: Faistos, Crete
Year: 2026
Status: In design
Project type: Residential complex
Architecture design: PT.a | Polychronakis Troullinos architects
Design team: Nicolas Polychronakis, Giannis Troullinos
Associate Civil Engineer: Markos Troullinos
Renders: Stg Studio

Description

The project consists of a residential complex of three independent buildings, designed to balance privacy, cohesion, and a strong relationship with the landscape. Each building functions autonomously while forming a unified architectural composition that blends naturally with the terrain and the surrounding environment.

The main design idea is structured around a continuous linear stone wall that acts as the conceptual and spatial backbone of the composition. This wall organizes the volumes, guides movement, and defines the transition between public, semi-outdoor, and private spaces. From this architectural “spine,” the individual residential volumes emerge, creating a dynamic dialogue between built form and open space.

The three buildings are arranged in a stepped formation that follows the natural slope of the site. This approach minimizes excavation and allows the complex to adapt organically to the terrain, while breaking down the overall mass into smaller, human-scale volumes. The clean geometry and horizontal lines of the buildings are contrasted and unified by the textured stone wall, which becomes the key identity element of the project.

Materiality and color choices reinforce the connection with the landscape. Earth-toned finishes and natural textures ensure visual harmony with the surroundings, while carefully positioned openings enhance natural light, ventilation, and thermal comfort throughout the interiors.

Outdoor spaces are conceived as an extension of the architecture. Paths, shaded areas, seating zones, and landscaped surfaces are organized in close relationship with the central wall, creating a continuous spatial experience between inside and outside. The swimming pool is integrated seamlessly into the composition, following the linear logic and material palette of the project, while recreational areas and pergola-covered parking complete the overall design.

Ultimately, the project seeks to create a discreet yet distinctive architectural presence: a composition that respects the landscape, enhances everyday living, and offers a balanced interplay between privacy, openness, and spatial continuity.