Ilya Botanic Suites

The project is located on the North Sporades Island of Alonissos and is inspired by the therapeutic herbs of the island, which exceed 6,000 species, a fact which makes Alonissos the home for the ‘International Academy of Classical Homeopathy’. The building was conceived as a “botanic garden”, the garden structure spans 4 levels, 3 of which extended up to the ground floor with the fourth garden featuring on the first floor.

The connection of the new building with the beach of Glyfa, which is 50 meters away, is achieved by the use of light coloured and fine-grained terrazzo flooring making the building barefoot friendly. The water element is present in all suites, in the form of small pools or jacuzzis.

The interior of all suites is open to both sides, offering great views; to the mesmerizing marine park of Steni Vala, at the frontal west side of the building and to the verdant olive grove in the East. These views mean that the suites are dual aspect. The necessary shading for the large western openings of the building are achieved by a secondary façade made of vertical wooden battens – blinds. These blinds protect against the ‘harsh’ western Mediterranean sun, while creating a joyful light effect in its interior spaces. Vertical wooden battens are also used in a different density as partitions of the suites’ exterior spaces, while in other cases the wooden elements are formed to creat outdoor seating benches.