glass sheets and concrete tubes envelope vardastudio's residence in cyprus

vardastudio completes private residence in geroskipou, cyprus, using two materials often found near the site, concrete tube pipe sections and metal sheets. on its exterior, AB house features two separate envelopes: a structure clad in metal and glass and two walls of stacked concrete pipe sections running along its north and south facades. designed by the architect couple for their own use, the residence combines the duo’s modernist sensibilities and passion for art, whilst being heavily influenced by its location and natural surroundings.

glass doors slide open to the deck veranda, dispersed with garden pockets, containing small trees and fragrant plants

the residence occupies an open-field plot exposed to its surroundings, which vardastudio resolved in a creative way. the first layer of the house comprises a load-bearing structure of metal beams and columns and a glass envelope that contains the interior. clean, minimal and technologically advanced, it contrasts with the second layer, an envelope of heavy, low-tech concrete tubes that provides additional sheltering from the environment and filters views from and towards the house.

the water corridor sets the ambience of the soundscape and influences the light, reflecting it towards the interior

the interior benefits from a high degree of thermal insulation thanks to the envelop system. during winter time, the south façade enjoys passive solar gains, while an awning above the glass provides shade in the summer and prevents overheating. the envelop 3D system, an integrated system with modules for different functions provides fixed external walls, sliding and fixed windows, and an entrance door. it is installed in a single continuous track of 76 metres long, without the need for extra framing.

the roof is formed of corrugated metal sheets, and the exterior walls are formed of aluminum-framed double glazing, fixed and moving

entrance gate to the AB house

the terrace area – the concrete tube walls shelter the residence from strong winds

the sliding doors are designed to lock in an open position, small enough to be secure, whilst allowing natural ventilation to all spaces

three bedrooms and a study are placed along a corridor-gallery that runs along the length of the house

the open plan living area is to the east, providing a dining area, kitchen, and sitting area

concrete pipe view from the main bathroom

the walls contain polystyrene and fiberglass thermal insulation and are sealed externally with white glass

at the front, a long decorative pool stretches the whole length of the residence on its right side

night-time view of the southern facade’s concrete pipes, being lit up by light

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edited by: sofia lekka angelopoulou | designboom