Residence in Larissa is an incredible modern double level dwelling of concrete and wood which has been designed by Potiropoulos D+L Architects, located in Nikaia, Larissa, Greece. The concept refers to the agricultural landscape of the Larisa’s plain which reminds of a multicoloured orthogonal puzzle. Both the austere shape of the 4,090 square foot (380 square meters) building volume, as well as the design discipline of the surrounding garden – which is organized in geometrical areas of different plant species – constitute the expression of this memory.

The structure is “L” shaped and positioned at the corner of the plot, so as to allow vital space for the swimming pool and the garden towards the favorable orientation. Wooden partitions plough the surrounding landscape into individual zones – extensions of the interior structure of the building. The movement from the public space towards the residence constitutes a sequence of successive disclosures, like the reflecting pool or the atrium with the seasonal flowers which “conceals” the main entrance, transforming the path of approach into a “sacred” route.

The design of the building and the surrounding landscape is based on overlapping movements of transitions with the landscape as a permanent backdrop. The raw materials used on the shell – exposed concrete and wood – amplify the symbiotic affinity between building and nature whilst the rhythm of the vertical and horizontal openings encourages the dialogue with the natural light, providing in parallel conditions of desirable privacy.

Photos: Charalambos Loizides