Cover With its liberal use of concrete, granite and local stone, Aimasia Residence is a perfect complement to the home’s rugged environment
With its liberal use of concrete, granite and local stone, Aimasia Residence is a perfect complement to the home’s rugged environment
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A31 Architecture and Tom Dixon’s Design Research Studio collaborate on a breathtaking villa, resulting in a home that makes the most of the sun-kissed Greek island setting so beloved by the jet-set crowd
The creation of this villa on the Greek island of Mykonos was no small feat. The permit took two years to clear, and construction on the challenging rocky terrain took another two years. Athens-based architect Praxitelis Kondylis of A31 Architecture thrives on such challenges, viewing obstacles as opportunities for growth.
Kondylis’ philosophy is evident in this project, which beautifully integrates with its stunning surroundings, showcasing his commitment to creating spaces that resonate with their environment. Completed in September, Aimasia Residence is named after the ancient Greek word “αἱμασιά”, which refers to the traditional dry-stone walls built by farmers over centuries to cultivate crops on the Cycladic islands’ steep terrain.
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Above The house boasts breathtaking vistas of the Aegean Sea to the south
The house boasts breathtaking vistas of the Aegean Sea to the south
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Mykonos’ arid landscape, characterised by low bushes and free-roaming wild goats, inspired Kondylis to ensure that each project leaves a positive legacy within its environment. Consequently, a 62m-long wall crafted from local Mykonian granite gracefully follows the site’s natural contours, serving as the backbone of this architectural gem. The villa opens southwards towards breathtaking views of the sea and Elia Beach while also facing an imposing granite hill adorned with Unesco-listed dry-stone walls.
Spanning 9,149 sq ft, Aimasia Residence seamlessly integrates outdoor elements into its design while optimising the scenic views. The ground floor boasts a spacious living area comprising an open-plan kitchen, dining room and lounge—all share expansive floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook the outdoor space and infinity pool. The use of reinforced concrete for floors, walls and ceilings creates continuity throughout these welcoming spaces.
An almost otherworldly view of the barren hills from the pool deck
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The second level houses bedrooms equipped with wooden wardrobes and ensuite bathrooms, while the basement houses a wine cellar, gym and staff accommodation. Adjacent to the swimming pool, nestled on slopes, is a separate guest house with a private pool.
Design Research Studio (DRS), British luxury design brand Tom Dixon’s interior design arm, played a pivotal role in selecting the furnishings for this project. A long-time friend of Kondylis, Dixon completed this collaboration over the course of a year. “Before making any decisions,” he recalls, “I wanted to visit the land where the villa would be built to absorb its natural scents and observe how the landscape changes throughout the day. I was captivated by the striking vegetation and burnt hues of browns and beiges illuminated by the sun during its peak hours.”
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The B&B Italia Camaleonda sofa in the living area is a fluffy counterpoint to the rocky landscape
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After an initial exploration phase, Dixon began curating furnishings for each room. “The extraordinary rocky terrain inspired us to weave geology into our narrative,” he explains. DRS is renowned for its site-specific approach to its projects; thus, the design team incorporated local stone, marble and granite throughout the kitchens and bathrooms to bring texture and authenticity to the minimalist concrete shell. “We collaborated closely with Praxitelis to integrate geological elements into the design,” he elaborates.
In the expansive living area, a dining table and bookcase crafted from dark cork—handmade in Portugal under the Tom Dixon brand—complement pendant lamps by Apparatus and chairs by Vico Magistretti. A dark brown goat-wool rug hangs like a tapestry on a reinforced concrete wall, while a large white fabric sofa is paired with Tom Dixon metal floor lamps.
Dixon also introduced several pieces that sit between the realms of architecture and design, including one wooden sculpture made from waste material collected during lockdown, and another assembled from scrap metal.
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Above Tom Dixon pieces lend a cohesive aesthetic throughout the villa
Above The cleverly lit stairway incorporates a boulder from the terrain as an accent
Tom Dixon pieces lend a cohesive aesthetic throughout the villa
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The kitchen features an impressive marble island composed of assembled blocks, while one wall is entirely covered by a custom-built wardrobe. In each bedroom, Dixon utilised iconic design pieces—such as Achille and Pier Giacomo Castiglioni’s Parentesi and Toio lamps from Flos as well as Isamu Noguchi’s Akari lamp—alongside his own lighting designs, both the established classics as well as unreleased prototypes.
“The idea was to blend my furnishings and accessories with vintage pieces and works of art, creating a cohesive style that plays with a limited colour palette, rounded shapes, and materials that possess a strong character,” Dixon shares.
The landscape design serves as an extension of the home, thoughtfully following the existing natural terrain while showcasing the variety, textures and colours of the native plants that were reintroduced to the project area. “My dream was to create a clear, honest and mindful home,” says Kondylis. Looking out at the landscape from any room, it’s clear he has truly succeeded.
A poetic corner of a bedroom with a clever architectural incision that brings natural light in
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Credits
Photography: Mike Kelley
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