Modernity arrived on the Greek islands not only in the form of mass tourism, but also with the industrialization of the countryside. The ruins of abandoned quarries, mines, ship-loading infrastructure, factories, and warehouses can still be found all across the coastlines and hills of some of the most famous Cycladic islands. The small bay of Vathi on Tinos is part of this story, where the remains of a marble-processing facility create a post-industrial backdrop for holiday-makers swimming in the clear sea.
A client of Local Local acquired a small building within this abandoned complex and decided to transform it into a simple beach house to be used as a practical base for family excursions. The existing structure of 40 sq. m. — probably used originally as an office or other auxiliary space — stands on a terrace overlooking the bay and has been in a state of disrepair for many years.
Our intervention takes the form of an exercise in minimalism and functionality. We preserve and refurbish the building shell to create an interior rest area with a kitchenette and an external bathroom. Most of the furnishings (including the beds) are built-in, creating additional storage areas, while the floor was covered with traditional marble slabs. To facilitate the beach house’s sustainability and self-sufficiency, low-maintenance materials have been selected and the building’s utilities will be independent, by use of electric panels and a water tank.
Design team: Sofia Xanthakou, Dimitra Vasiliadou
Τext: Kiriakos Spirou