olen resort embeds into greek island slope across three terraced levels

Ateno embeds Olen resort into a cliff overlooking the Aegean Sea

Ateno Architecture Studio’s Olen Resort unfolds across a seaside, amphitheatrical plot in Syros, Greece, characterized by a steep southward slope and an uninterrupted view of the Aegean Sea. The primary challenge of the project was to satisfy complex functional requirements while respecting the morphology of the terrain. Olen is a composition of three morphological units: a Point, a Line, and a Plane. A residential complex arranged on three levels, combining submerged and above-ground structures.

all images by Yiorgis Yerolympos

a Point, a Line, and a Plane: three morphological units shape Olen

At the highest point unfolds the Plane: a common space for all residents. The alignment of an arched retaining wall creates an embrace, simultaneously serving as a conduit for vertical circulation, ramps and stairs, and as an element that incorporates a submerged structure hosting living and communal spaces. The wall defines the layout of the terrace, the Plane, where three independent guest units are positioned. Centrally situated is the Line: a submerged rectangular building housing two autonomous living spaces, whose outdoor areas can be unified or separated. Due to the building’s setback from the longitudinal shading overhang, the presence of the facade is minimized. The Line functions as a quiet backdrop to the complexity of the overlying structures. At the lowest level, in immediate proximity to the sea, lies the Point: an independent subterranean guesthouse, isolated and invisible to all. At the Point, one can pause, listen to the serenity of nature and the sound of the waves. With the intent to disappear, the building by Ateno Architecture Studio is constructed from materials sourced on-site. Only the circular terrace remains visible, a plateau towards the Aegean.

a play in three parts: a Point, a Line, and a Plane

curved walls trace the natural contours of the hillside

a large metal leaf provides shade on the Plane’s terrace

the wall defines the layout of the terrace, where three independent guest units are positioned

along the terrace, shaded paths connect the guest units 

a curved canopy and a rounded volume compose against the open sea

horizontal planes of clay catch the light of the Aegean landscape

framed views of the open seas create serene outdoor terraces

the Line functions as a quiet backdrop to the overlying structures

open to the horizon, the living space extends beyond its walls

stone is sourced on site in order to construct the Point

large window frames provide expansive views of the Aegean Sea

the Point recedes into the rock, dissolving into the landscape

at dusk, the volumes glow warmly against the darkening Aegean

project info:

name: Olen Resort

architect: Ateno Architecture Studio | @ateno.studio

design team: Elias Theodorakis, Yiorgos Fiorentinos

structural engineer: Stavros Theodorakis, Evaggelia Tekou, Tesseract Engineers

MEP engineer: Leonardos Roussos

supervisor: 3axes – Ioannis Giannakas

location: Syros, Greece

photographer: Yiorgis Yerolympos

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edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom