. URLA AURA

URLA AURA is an exclusive project that offers unique selections from contemporary Aegean architecture. This project seamlessly blends nature with luxury, offering beautifully designed homes that provide a tranquil and elevated living experience. Setting a new standard for upscale living in the region, it introduces a level of sophistication and refinement to its surroundings. With a strong dedication to sustainability strategies, the project is designed to prioritize the comfort of residents, adapting seamlessly to changing climatic conditions throughout the year. The project area is divided into eleven distinct parcels, featuring a selection of nine different villa designs.

Ranging from 450 to 600 square meters, these villas offer diverse options, ensuring residents experience exceptional architecture tailored to their preferences. A key element of the project's design lies in the preservation of the olive trees, some of which have stood for up to 150 years. Preserving these olive trees not only adds a touch of grandeur to the landscape but also serves as a significant influence in shaping the architectural design strategies. While some buildings were shaped around olive trees in their plots, others chose to integrate these trees into their interior spaces, making them an integral part of the overall design.

Within this project featuring nine distinct designs, my contributions focus on three: Stone House, Arc House, and Lucid House. From architectural design to visualization, my role encompassed key aspects of concept development, spatial composition, and representational techniques.

Stone House is designed in harmony with the region's architectural heritage blended with modern architectural technologies. Arc House embraces a postmodern approach, breaking away from conventional forms, while Lucid House presents a refined, minimalist architectural style.

Stone House is a prime example of the unique architectural fabric of the Aegean region fused with contemporary technologies. The traditional use of stone and wood is seamlessly integrated with modern engineering and design, strongly reflecting the local identity. The design of the villa showcases the region’s cultural understanding of "home" by creating a functional layout that aligns with local traditions. The elegant blend of stone walls and wooden materials transforms the building into not just a living space, but a reference point to the cultural heritage of the region. The inclusion of metal details seamlessly integrates contemporary elements with the traditional character of the design.

At the center of the structure rises a canopy that lightens the heavy presence of the stone, offering a spacious and airy living area that embraces the surrounding landscape. This structural element adds a sense of depth to the space while establishing a strong connection with the natural environment. Particularly during the hot summer months, the strategically positioned skylight delicately disperses natural light within the building, while also preventing overheating. Additionally, the building's functions have been carefully arranged with attention to wind circulation, optimizing airflow throughout the space. This solution is not only functional but also a reflection of environmental consciousness.

The interior design of Stone House embodies the essence of Aegean stone houses, where the natural beauty of stone walls is harmonized with warmth and comfort. Characteristic of the region’s architecture, the stone elements are integrated seamlessly into the design, providing both structural integrity and aesthetic appeal. The key feature of the design is the expansive canopy, finished with wood at its base to soften the interior and lighten the stone’s weight. It incorporates skylight openings, offering a spacious, airy area that connects with the surrounding landscape and fills the space with natural light.

Despite the use of robust stone, the interiors maintain a warm and cozy ambiance, where every detail is designed to enhance comfort and relaxation. Soft, neutral tones are paired with rich textures and strategically placed lighting, emphasizing the tactile qualities of the materials. The use of plush fabrics, such as wool and linen, adds a layer of warmth, while open spaces and expansive windows allow for an abundance of natural light, further amplifying the feeling of openness and tranquility. This balance between Aegean tradition and contemporary comfort creates a space rooted in heritage yet elevated by modern sensibilities.