An ultra-modern country villa, a symbol of minimal architecture, created by the architect Fotini Xyrafi, in one of Argolida’s most beautiful landscapes, in Ermioni, right in front of the sea.

The villa is constructed out of reinforced concrete and consists of a basement and a ground floor.

At first glance, the original synthesis – inspired by the architect – of geometric solids in total harmony with the natural landscape, stands out as its special feature.

Through her architectural design, the architect creates spaces for people to live indoors as well as outdoors, under a solid body, a slab of 20.00 x 20.00 x 0.50m, which equilibrates diagonally on just two support points – without any other intermediate support – and leaves more than 50% of the perimeter absolutely free, and the view of the sea and the opposite islands completely unobstructed.

The diagonal position of the square supports of the plate – leaving a 17.00m distance between them- as well as the size of the diagonal free cantilever is a statics true challenge.

 The problem was solved with the application of post tensioning in both diagonal directions.

Concepts such us the equilibrium of the geometric solid, of its center of gravity and of its undistorted support on only two points stand out vigorously inside and outside the villa.

The entire structure carrying the loads is visible and it is the same that forms the final geometric sculpture within the beauty of the natural environment.

To ensure the necessary earthquake resistance, we had to deal with all the weak spots.

For sure, the vertical elements supporting the 500 tons, post tensioned concrete slab are over-reinforced.

Against overturning, the slab is anchored on the other vertical elements, located on the rear side of the house, upstream on the slope.

The construction was realized with the utmost precision and quality and with the application of the latest, highly advanced slab post tensioning technology.

Flat tendon tubes were used, placed precisely according to the construction drawings and calculations.

When the scaffolding was removed, the result was impressive: the cantilever of 17.00m stood, with the exact calculated deformations – short and long term.

Below the roof slab, glazing was installed around the perimeter, offering free view at the sea.