ECHO ZEN RETREATS: A RESIDENCE ORGANIZED AROUND OUTDOOR LIVING
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Designed by VP Architectural Studio, Echo Zen Retreats is a residential complex located on the island of Kefalonia, Greece. The project explores Mediterranean outdoor living through a composition of interconnected indoor and outdoor spaces, where architecture is organized around landscape, climate, and daily use.
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The layout unfolds from private bedroom suites toward shared living areas centered on the kitchen and dining spaces. Large openings establish visual continuity between the interiors and the surrounding landscape while introducing natural light throughout the residence.
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Outdoor living forms a central component of the design. Pergolas provide shaded transitional spaces connecting the main buildings with swimming pools, terraces, and gathering areas. Adjacent to the primary volume, an outdoor barbecue area extends the communal program beneath one of the pergolas, supporting cooking, dining, and social activities in an open-air setting.
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Echo Zen Retreats is all about exploring the quiet joy of simply being present | all images by duee.studio
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VP Architectural Studio uses SIMPLE FORMS to SHAPE LIVING SPACES
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The project combines restrained architectural forms with a palette of natural materials and warm tones that respond to the character of the Ionian landscape. Carefully proportioned volumes and linear geometries create a sequence of intimate and shared spaces while maintaining a close relationship with the site’s topography and climate.
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Echo Zen Retreats reflects VP Architectural Studio’s minimalist design approach, using simple forms, material continuity, and indoor-outdoor connections to establish a residential environment integrated with its natural surroundings.
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the grand windows enhance the living experience by introducing natural light and views of the landscape
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carefully curated lines and forms create both intimate and social spaces, aligned with the joy of slow living
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the BBQ area offers an outdoor outlet for social interactions
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shaded pergolas and the expansive pools unfold just a few steps away from the main residence areas
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simplicity can make a powerful architectural statement
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masterplan of the Echo Zen Retreats project
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floor plans of the residence typology
