Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Crete, the Undercut Cretan Villa stands as a bold testament to brutalist architecture principles of the 1970s, harmonizing modern aesthetics with the natural beauty of its surroundings. The villa is characterized by detached solid volumes that interlock to form a geometric puzzle on its facade, juxtaposed against a fully transparent ground floor that invites the outdoors in.

Inspired by the rugged Cretan landscape, the material palette features warm gray natural stucco and ‘scratched’ concrete, creating a tactile and visually striking exterior. A distinctive feature of the villa is the linear pool that elegantly wraps around three sides of the building, offering serene views and enhancing the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. Various water features enrich the landscape, including a fountain cascading onto a rock formation, a shallow water lily pool, and a rooftop Jacuzzi surrounded by cascading plants, enriching the west facade. Communal spaces are strategically positioned in the transparent areas, fostering an open and inclusive atmosphere. In contrast, master bedrooms are discreetly located behind the blind facades, ensuring privacy while maintaining a seamless integration with the landscape.

Additional bedrooms on the lower level open up to a ‘secret garden’ nestled below the main garden, featuring a heated pool with triangular caves, hanging planters, granite steps, and a slide for added enjoyment. Pergolas on the south side of the villa follow a linear arrangement with curved cutouts, providing shelter from the elements for outdoor dining and barbecue areas. This thoughtful design not only enhances usability but also embraces the Mediterranean climate, facilitating year-round enjoyment of outdoor living spaces. The villa incorporates sustainable design principles, optimizing natural light and ventilation to minimize energy consumption. Its integration with the natural terrain and careful landscaping ensures a harmonious relationship with the environment, enhancing the overall aesthetic and ecological sustainability of the site.

The Undercut Cretan Villa epitomizes a sophisticated blend of brutalist architecture with contemporary living, offering a sanctuary that celebrates both privacy and connection with nature. With its distinctive geometric form, rich materiality, and thoughtful outdoor spaces, the villa exemplifies modern luxury while respecting and enhancing its natural surroundings on the island of Crete.