Situated on a hill in Heraklion, Crete, this apartment building offers panoramic views of the entire city. Despite the dense urban fabric and close proximity to neigh boring houses, the design does not isolate the building from its surroundings. Instead, it incorporates a pilotis, allowing public space to blend seamlessly into the building’s private areas. The architectural composition emphasizes the relationship between the road, the pilotis, the pool, the city, and the landscape, effectively framing the natural surroundings through the building. The building is spread over four levels: a basement, ground floor, and two additional floors. Four apartments occupy the two upper floors, and there are two roof gardens providing additional outdoor space. The pool, a place for relaxation and tranquility, is located in the back outdoor area of the plot, offering views of the mountains and the city.
The central stairwell, marked by the use of u-glass on its façade, forms a distinct core of the building. Each of the four apartments has a similar layout but differs in elevation and façade treatment. All apartments benefit from natural light and ventilation, with openings located on the east-west axis. To control the natural light entering the spaces, two types of apartments were created: one with an introverted design and the other with a more extroverted design.

The introverted apartments characterized by a white solid volume with voids and semi-outdoor spaces, these units offer great privacy and protection from the sun. The balconies are more enclosed, providing a sense of seclusion. In contrast, the extroverted apartments t has more visible, open balconies, allowing for greater interaction with the outdoor environment. This design approach creates a dynamic visual contrast with the introverted apartments. The building’s facade balances through the asymmetry of its volumes and colors, playing with the concepts of introversion and extroversion. The interplay of solid and void, along with the use of different materials and colors, gives the building a unique and dynamic appearance. The central stairwell, highlighted by u-glass, adds a distinct architectural feature, enhancing the building’s modern aesthetic.

It integrates public and private spaces through its innovative design, emphasizing the connection between the urban environment and natural landscape. By offering both introverted and extroverted living spaces, the building caters to diverse preferences while maintaining a cohesive architectural identity. The thoughtful use of materials, light, and space creates a harmonious living environment that enhances the urban experience in Heraklion.