Stone House | Panagiotis Zakkas

The stone house is situated in a site with a south-facing slight slope. It consists of two rectangular volumes which are parallel to the contour lines and are connected with a linear covered corridor. The residence is constructed of stone masonry load bearing walls and reinforced concrete structure.

The smaller volume is placed towards the north, as a sign of the entrance to the site from the communal road. It houses a garage for two cars, a storage space as well as the boiler room.

A short covered walkway leads to a second, larger volume, which houses all living spaces, including a living room, kitchen, dining room, three bedrooms and two bathrooms.

All spaces have instant access to a long semi outdoor space, which is an essential element of the residence by offering inhabitants a hospitable form, suitable for semi outdoor living throughout the year.

The design of the stone house aims at taking full advantage of the privileged site orientation. The building volume is aligned along the west-east axis, so that all living spaces are facing to the south.

Stone masonry load bearing walls on the south side are interrupted by large openings which let sun enter the building. This secures solar exposure of all spaces throughout the day, as well as natural heating during the cold winter months.

The in-between covered space along the south elevation of the house offers shading and cooling for all spaces, thus functioning as a filter during the hot months of the summer.  

On the north elevation, penetration of stone masonry load bearing walls is significantly reduced so as to minimize heat losses. The use of small windows, in combination with large openings to the south, makes it easier for ventilation and cooling of spaces when necessary.