block722's gundari resort carves through the folegandros cliffs in greece

gundari resort by block722 merges cycladic and modern designs

In the heart of Folegandros, Greece, perched on rugged cliffs facing the Aegean Sea, sits the Gundari Resort by local architecture studio Block722. Spanning 3,000 sqm, the hospitality destination combines stone and wood into a balanced aesthetic — preserving the region’s Cycladic tradition, untouched by architectural overdesign practices, and achieving the perfect ratio and proportions for modern living inside the earthy-toned units.

image © Ana Santl | @iamnotanna

stone and wood flowing into the Folegandros cliffs in greece

The team at Block722 envisions the Gundari Resort as an organic extension of Folegandros’ cliffs, with water features bringing the Aegean’s brilliant blue waters within close reach. The 80-acre hotel complex incorporates locally sourced stone into its linear walls, following the natural landscape. Between the robust stone lines and wall surfaces, delicate wooden structures come into play as connectors, breathing life into the transitional spaces that lie in between.

Gundari Resort by Block722 reaches for the Aegan sea | image © Ana Santl

Each of the 27 suites and villas features natural materials and hosts thoughtfully chosen furniture pieces with a deep, earthy palette. The private rooms are complete with an open-air private shower, which rekindles memories of forgotten rituals connected with nature. Meanwhile, positioned on the northwest side of the complex, the bar-restaurant evolves into a prominent focal point, creating an elaborate and inviting gathering space for all guests.

image © Ana Santl

In the lower zone of the Gundari Resort, a distinct interaction between the architecture and the natural environment takes shape, providing a haven for the spa and executive suites entirely concealed within the earth to create an intimate ambiance. Here, the building seems to yield to the contours of the landscape, allowing the lines of the terrain to dictate its form and exude relaxation, serenity, and privacy.

image © Martha Vorsou

bar-restaurant area | image © Martha Vorsou

image © Ana Santl

private suite | image © Ana Santl

an atmosphere of serenity | image © Ana Santl

image © Ana Santl

outdoor shower | image © Ana Santl

using stone for the linear walls | image © Ana Santl

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image © Ana Santl

image © Martha Vorsou

image © Ana Santl

project info:

name: Gundari Resort | @gundari_resort

location: Folegandros-Cyclades, Greece

architecture, interiors, landscaping: Block722 | @block722architects

lead team: Sotiris Tsergas & Katja Margaritoglou, Elena Milidaki, Francesca Balfoussia

design team: Natalie Dillon, Katerina Mavromoustaki, Tzemil Moustafoglou, Yannis Manztaris, Αpostolos Karastamatis, Michael Gryllakis, Danai Lazaridi, Maria Damianidou, Sofia Badeka, Sophia Damianidou, Dimitra Poulokefalou, Maria Damianidou, Nikoleta Papalimperi, Eirini Liapikou, Marianna Kirkilitsi, Makis Giannopoulos, Aristea Topizopoulou, Ioanna Petroulaki, Rania Pikramenou
owner: Fol Resort
operator: Hotel Brain
developer and procurement: Apax

planting: Outside landscape architecture
main contractor: Apax
project manager: Focal Project Managers
graphic design / branding / visual identity: K2 Design
lighting design: L+DG lighting architects
art consultant: Block722 / Efi Spyrou, Runonart
structural / MEP engineering & consultant: Vangelis Georgostathis, Agapakis Consultants
spa consultant: Naomi Gregory
reception desk artwork: Esto Association

reception desk manufacturer: Form To Matter
coffee table SYB design and direction: Block722

art direction: Block722

photographer: Ana Santl
styling: Priszcilla Varga

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photographer: Martha Vosdou
styling: Sissy Rousaki

area: 3,000 sqm

opening date: June 2024

guestrooms: 27

other facilities: Off Site Gundari Bar & Restaurant, Beauty Treatments, Bar, Gym, Boat Trips,
Car & Motorbike Rental, Complimentary Transportation from/to the port,

lea zeitoun I designboom

jun 04, 2024