Bridge for Design

Within the main house the key living spaces are at ground level, with
some service spaces and spare bedrooms on a lower-ground floor.
The building is laid out round the central courtyard, from
which two elegant corridors on either side lead to a main bedroom
suite on one side, and a large inter-connecting drawing room and
library on the other. Both rooms open onto terraces with dramatic
views of the sea.
The many terraces round the house have been given as much
thought as the interiors – for much of the year, the family lives
almost entirely outdoors.
Another sequence of terraces has been created for dining, and
the breakfast room and kitchen are situated nearby, on the landward
side of the house and the entrance.
‘The climate had to be taken into account all the time,’ says
John. ‘But this house can also be used very happily in the winter, when
it’s still warm during the day but chilly at night, hence the fireplaces
– which are versions of traditional northern Greek hearths – and
heating.
Mostly we used white walls, but also blue, which is traditional,
too. In addition there’s ochre, olive and terracotta, and the odd
frivolity like a shade of pink. It’s a sensual house, full of light, colour
and many different textures, which are very important.’
John has also designed all of the furniture for the house, indoors
and out, which creates a sense of coherence. Some pieces are
familiar Stefanidis designs; others are unique to the project.
Embroidery is another theme, with appliqued bedcovers and wall
hangings specially commissioned and made in Greece and India.
‘The great thing about John’s work is that everything fits together
without being bland,’ says the owner. ►
The key living spaces in the house are at ground level with some bedrooms in
a lower-ground floor. Blue and white are the key colours throughout.