k-studio's kalesma hotel resembles traditional whitewashed mykonian village

in mykonos, one of the most picturesque islands of the aegean sea, k-studio architects and studio bonarchi collaborate for kalesma. through and around the greek rocky lands and dark blue waters, the hotel unravels and disperses embracing the simplicity and honesty of the cyclades. the whitewashed suites and villas that make up the project are arranged parametrically as if pixelating the characteristic landscape. as kalesma sits on the spine of a hill, unique views of both the tranquil sunrise and sunset allow guests to connect to the essence of the mykonian dreamy land.

all images courtesy of k-studio

k-studio designs kalesma as a small village – the kind that local islanders would construct to accommodate their family generation after generation. it is no coincidence that the hotel’s name signifies welcoming in greek, as the project represents or better reinvents hospitality. this, binded with a modern twist of the vernacular architecture, creates a seamless connection between past and present. to highlight this calming balance further, a traditional circular structure, normally used for grinding wheat into flour, has been repurposed as a meditative platform for enjoying the sunset. serenity and relaxation are promised with low lighting and views to the olive trees.

arranged around a communal platia (piazza), the 25 suites and two villas accommodate the guests each with their own private pool terrace and sea view. balance continues throughout the project as external and internal spaces have the same size, whilst the divided rooms in the suites are shared equally. overall, the volumes frame the terrace which, in turn, features dining and lounge areas, overlooking a private pool with uninterrupted views of the aegean.

project info:

architects: k-studio

design team: skitsas mihalis, vasia mavrogianni, arianna mexili, lila simou, elpiniki kekelou, dafni dimopoulou

interior design & styling: studio bonarchi – vangelis bonios

location: mykonos, greece

completion date: 2021

photography: vangelis paterakis, yiorgos kordakis