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
the residential complex arranged on three levels, combining submerged and above-ground structures
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
with the intent to disappear, the building is constructed from materials sourced on-site
at dusk, the volumes glow warmly against the darkening Aegean
Olen Resort opens up like a plateau towards the 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
The post olen resort embeds into greek island slope across three terraced levels appeared first on designboom | architecture & design magazine.

