Home nestled within an olive orchard
In the remote corners of Corfu, a quaint concrete structure emerges, blending seamlessly with the rugged terrain and rustic charm of the island's olive groves. This unassuming abode is, in fact, the holiday home of architect Piers Taylor, designed to honor the area's traditional building practices.
The building's visual enigma is intentional, evoking a sense of mystery about its purpose. Taylor explains, "I wanted something that wasn't a typical domestic building. whether it was a storehouse, a workshop, or just a building for processing olives... I didn't want anything overtly residential."
The home's structural integrity addresses the ever-present risks of earthquakes and wildfires. The concrete walls, reinforced with limestone aggregate, seem to rise from the earth, forming a sturdy, organic formation. The house's interior reflects this simplicity, with plain surfaces serving dual purposes as both structural elements and furniture.
A shade space with a corrugated metal roof and red rebar trusses echoes the modest means and skills that underpin local construction heritage. Taylor emphasizes, "I didn't want any glass. I just wanted screens that were mesh screens, because that's what you can get from the local builder's merchant that act as shutters. I wanted that sense of impermanence and improvisation."
Functional and straightforward, the screens, paired with insect screens and plastic curtains from local suppliers, impart an aura of makeshift charm. The building's formwork patterns, varying from plywood sheets to rougher timbers, demonstrate the hands-on, resourceful approach that shaped the home. Imperfections remain untouched, serving as a testament to the builders' craftsmanship.
Seed pods and olive stones embedded in the concrete add character to the building, weaving its history into its very fabric. The uppermost floor serves as the primary entry point and social hub, boasting open views of the sea and a kitchen-diner layout.
Creating a holiday home in an earthquake and wildfire-prone area requires thoughtful material choices and adherence to strict building codes. Using reinforced concrete, integrating fire-resistant materials, and designing structures with seismic activity and fire safety in mind are all crucial considerations. The beauty of Corfu lies in its integration with the environment, a philosophy that guides the construction of homes on the island, marrying practicality with aesthetic appeal.
In keeping with the island's philosophy of environmental integration, the home's design ensures that it doesn't intrude upon the natural beauty of Corfu's olive groves, transforming into a home-and-garden blend. Reflecting the local lifestyle and construction heritage, the screens surrounding the building are functional, straightforward, and echo the makeshift charm of home-and-garden structures found in remote Corfu.
