iconic sugar-cube houses, crystal-clear waters, and a distinct character on each island: welcome to greecenamed from the circle they form around the sacred island of delos, the holy island of apollo’s birth, the cyclades offer greece’s best island-hopping.
according to the greek mythology, poseidon, god of the sea, furious at the cyclades nymphs turned them into islands. each island has a strong, distinct character based on traditions, customs, topography and its historical development.
as a stylish, cosmopolitan archipelago within easy reach of athens, the cyclades can’t be beaten. beautiful, stunning, seducing…
the most famous island group in the aegean sea comprises some of the most beautiful islands in the world rocky shorelines punctured by heavenly sandy beaches, white-washed houses on a hillside above an azure bay, traditional lifestyle, folk music, warm, hospitable people, barren landscapes with isolated domed chapels and skies that, somehow, manage to be of a deeper blue than anywhere in the world turn a trip to the cyclades into a lifetime experience. however, cyclades consist of a lot of diverse islands with differing cultures and landscapes. because beneath that surface of picture-perfect white and blue, one discovers that of each and every one of them has its own personality.
millions of greek and foreign visitors come to the cyclades every year to enjoy the dazzling light and the crystal blue waters, in the quest of the paradise on earth.
lorin occupies a privileged position above ligaries beach on the southern coastline of folegandros, where the landscape descends towards the sea and uninterrupted views extend across the aegean. set within approximately 11,658 sqm (125,486 sq.ft.) of land, the residence has been conceived as an extension of the hillside itself, following the contours of the terrain and drawing its character from the island’s natural topography rather than imposing upon it.
the architecture remains low and discreet within the landscape, allowing the sea and surrounding terrain to retain visual prominence. constructed with materials chosen for their affinity with the island, the residence sits comfortably within its setting, while planted roofs and carefully integrated forms soften the transition between the built environment and the land around it. the result is a property defined by its relationship with place, where architecture and landscape exist in quiet balance.
extending across approximately 277 sqm (2,981 sq.ft.), the interior spaces are shaped by simplicity, proportion and natural light. carefully positioned openings frame views of the sea while drawing daylight deep into the house, creating a gradual movement between light and shade throughout the day. the material palette remains restrained and tactile, with surfaces and finishes selected to reinforce the calm, understated atmosphere that defines the residence.
at the heart of the property, the principal living spaces face directly towards the coastline. generous openings connect the interior with the terraces beyond, allowing the house to respond naturally to the climate and orientation of the site. sea air moves through the living areas during the warmer months, while the constant presence of the horizon provides a visual connection to the landscape from almost every principal room.
five en-suite bedrooms are arranged to provide privacy while remaining connected to the wider composition of the house. each enjoys its own relationship with the landscape, whether through direct sea views, sheltered outdoor spaces or carefully framed perspectives across the surrounding terrain. throughout the private accommodation, the architecture maintains the same sense of restraint found else where in the residence, favouring natural materials, controlled light and a strong connection to the setting.
the outdoor spaces follow the contours of the hillside, unfolding naturally around the residence rather than existing as separate destinations. the property embraces the rugged character of folegandros, allowing the surrounding landscape to remain largely untouched and preserving the sense of openness that defines this part of the island. different terraces and outdoor areas respond to changing light conditions and views, creating a variety of perspectives across the sea and coastline.
the proximity to ligaries beach remains one of the defining qualities of the property. the sea is visible from throughout the residence, creating a continuous dialogue between the architecture and the coastline below. the surrounding terrain provides a strong sense of privacy, while the elevated position ensures uninterrupted views across open water and towards the horizon.
lorin is a residence shaped by its setting, where the architecture derives its strength from restraint, proportion and a close relationship with the landscape. as the afternoon light settles across the hillside, the sea becomes the dominant element of the view, extending uninterrupted beyond the coastline and into the open aegean.
