Stefanos Skandalis

Sited along the North-East coast of Crete, opposite a virgin island and nestled amidst olive trees and flowers, the Domes of Elounda Boutique Beach Resort was designed embracing traditional Mediterranean architecture. The domes, pyramidal roofs, and the earthly colours have their roots in ancient Greece. Large windows, balconies, and spacious verandas innundade the building with light and immerse guests into the surrounding nature.

Stefanos Skandalis, a modern Mediterranean architect

Domes of Elounda was carefully designed for the comfort of its guests. The architect, Stefanos Skandalis, answers our questions:

How did you get involved with this hotel in Elounda?

It was a very exciting project. We had to work on the environment and design a harmoneous and human universe. I got involved in the project in 2004, after a direct contact with the owners. 

The owners and I were in full agreement on the architectural approach and we really had a close and fruitful collaboration on resolving functional issues. I supervised the works realised by the company Ikodomi SA and, in my eyes, all the areas of the hotel are of equal importance.

What philosophy and resources guided you in your work?

Domes of Elounda's concept has always been based on luxury and a personal approach. And I like giving importance to all aspects: geometry, symmetry, parity... The light is another element which I fancy in particular and on this project. I also received the support of experts.

We were inspired in our approach by the earthly colours and took an environmental approach towards the selection of the materials. Generally speaking I find the inspiration for my projects in Crete, and in this particular case in the traditional domes of South Mediterranean.

This project was a challenge as it was one of my most difficult study as we wanted to create a "magical" atmosphere. The guests had to be happy, feel good, and reside in a space with human dimension. I think we succeeded in our challenge!

The Domes of Elounda in 3 words?

• Mediterranean
• Human
• Luxury