Traditional Cycladic Architecture Meets Modern Luxury

3 min read
June 5, 2025
dpages

Centrally located…

in the Cyclades, the Greek island of Paros is often described as a chic getaway, known for its stunning beauty and understated cosmopolitan charm, offering a quieter alternative to the buzz of Mykonos and Santorini. It’s a place where simplicity reigns and luxury is defined by local wonders: the crystal-clear turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea, golden sandy beaches, fragrant olive groves, and iconic whitewashed houses.

It is this…

authentic spirit that inspired Gkyzi Nefeli and Makri Chrysi, founders of Athens-based Babatchas Design Studio, in their vision for two sea-view residences that seamlessly embrace and enhance the breathtaking landscape. In true Greek fashion, we begin in the heart of the home: the kitchen. Here, custom oak cabinetry, crafted by long-time collaborator Dimitrios Patavalis, embodies precision and simplicity. His joinery highlights the natural beauty of the oak—its grain, texture, and color—while maintaining a clean, elegant line. The marble countertop, sourced from Vidalis Marble on the neighboring island of Tínos, exudes a soft, luminescent glow, effortlessly drawing in the light. Sturdy cane dining chairs and handwoven rattan ceiling lights infuse the space with a modern rustic charm, while custom-made ceramics pay homage to Paros’ rich pottery tradition, which dates back to the Roman and Byzantine eras.

Three oak…

framed French doors provide direct access to an expansive terrace, where a swimming pool is oriented toward unobstructed sea views, creating a seamless transition between interior and exterior spaces. A floating staircase introduces a sculptural element while opening up the volume, allowing natural light to flood the interior.

Details…

matter. Decorative geometric recesses are carved into select walls, adding rhythm and texture to otherwise clean planes. Elsewhere, a miniature ceiling window in the dinning room punctuates the interior—less for function than for flair—offering an unexpected moment of whimsy and charm. Bespoke furniture has been installed in the larger recesses, each piece crafted to fit the space with exacting precision.

The homes…

are a celebration of local craftsmanship and indigenous artisanal skills. Every detail reflects a deep appreciation for heritage and texture. The furniture, including the blocky sofa with its simple, paneled wooden frame, was designed by the Athenian craft company Kountourakis. Meanwhile, the fabrics—soft linens, thick cottons, and tactile jute-blend textiles—are sourced from Interno, a respected atelier also based in central Athens. These materials imbue the space with a fresh, uncluttered feel, creating a serene and inviting atmosphere.

The bedrooms…

are wrapped in a palette of caramel and cream, set against a restrained backdrop of soft white plaster walls, allowing the Aegean Sea to take center stage through wooden French doors. Once again, functional furniture pieces showcase Patavalis’ joinery in unexpected ways: built-in oak wardrobes with recessed handles are immaculately flush fitted against walls and desks sit perfectly plumb into cut-out spaces. Decorative furniture, sourced from brands like Sklum, Zara Home, and H&M Home, strikes a perfect balance between chic, affordable design and functional elegance.

Skilled local…

artisans employed traditional drystone wall construction to define the boundaries of this villa—stacking stones without mortar and using smaller stones to secure larger ones. These walls mark the garden and terrace perimeters while serving as decorative focal points that honor an ancient craft native to the Cyclades islands. Their colors and textures are gently reflected in the earthy tones of the garden furniture. Beyond their beauty, the walls provide habitats for reptiles and insects, with plants and flowers often sprouting from the gaps. Like the rest of this thoughtfully crafted home, they exist in perfect harmony with the surrounding environment.