Gundari Resort: minimal volumes and luxury of time in the Greek islands

On the dramatic cliffs overlooking the endless blue of sea and sky in Folegandros, a small island in the Greek Cyclades archipelago, the Gundari is an eco-resort that strives to merge with the soul of the place. Both through its clean lines and materials, and with the spirit that permeates the hotel complex: slow time, contemplation, relaxation. A perfect destination for a contemplative escape

Architecture harmonious blend of tranquility and adventure

The Gundari Resort was conceived by the Greek firm Block722, which applies a holistic approach to its architectural projects to respond with simplicity and sensitivity to clients' needs. In this case, the request was to create an eco-resort in perfect harmony with the marvelous Cycladic natural and cultural context. The response from the designers, led by founders Sotiris Tsergas and Katja Margaritoglou, is an architecture harmonious blend of tranquility and adventure, the ingredients for the perfect vacation

Simple volumes, solemn in their naked honesty

The colors of Gundari Resort are inspired by the sea and the rocks of the place; the composition adheres to the simple volumes of the traditional villages in the geographical area. The architecture of the complex is therefore formed by a family of low stone cubes, solemn in their naked honesty. The resort is organized into two sections to ensure that all suites have a view of the breathtaking panorama: in one, the volumes are nestled into the hillside until they become invisible from above, also thanks to the garden roofs; in the other, although completely above ground, the suites remain low and discreet

Outdoor Common Areas and Infinity Pool

The reception and services are housed in one of the above-ground buildings, slightly taller than the others to delicately communicate its position to guests as if it were the town hall of an archetypal Greek village standing out on the main square. Many of the common areas are outdoors just as the local tradition dictates. An infinity pool ideally projects guests into the vast blue of the Aegean Sea. The typical warm minimalism of Block722 crowns the immersive resort experience with its conceptual layers and natural material textures

Materials and furnishings with minimal environmental impact

The careful planning of the construction, given Folegandros' isolation, has allowed to manage every supply of materials, labor, and equipment with the utmost respect for nature, ensuring the minimal environmental impact of the eco-resort. The key materials of the design, both interior and exterior, are marble, wood, and clay; the stone and gravel come directly from the site. The custom-designed furnishings by Block722 are complemented by recovered vintage pieces. The complex has been meticulously designed for 5 years and now thrives thanks to its wild setting despite its remote location

Gallery

Photo credits
Top image: Ana Santl
Content Images: 1, 2, 3 Ana Santl; 4 Martha Vosdou
Gallery images: 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 12, 13, 14, 15 Ana Santl; 3, 9, 10, 11 Martha Vosdou

Designers credits
Architecture & Ιnterior design: Block722 Leaders: Sotiris Tsergas & Katja Margaritoglou, Elena Milidaki, Francesca Balfoussia
Team: Natalie Dillon, Katerina Mavromoustaki, Tzemil Moustafoglou, Yannis Manztaris, Αpostolos Karastamatis, Michael Gryllakis, Danai Lazaridi, Maria Damianidou, Sofia Badeka, Sophia Damianidou, Dimitra Poulokefalou, Nikoleta Papalimperi, Eirini Liapikou, Marianna Kirkilitsi, Makis Giannopoulos, Aristea Topizopoulou, Ioanna Petroulaki, Rania Pikramenou
Landscaping: Block722
Planting: Outside landscape architecture
Main Contractor: Apax
Project Manager: Focal Project Managers
Procurement: Apax
Brand name /Logo: AG Design Agency
Graphic Design / Branding / Visual Identity: K2 Design
Lighting Design: L+DG lighting architects
Art Consultant: Block722, Efi Spyrou, Runonart
Structural &MEP engineering & consultant: Vangelis Georgostathis, Agapakis Consultants
Other Contractors / Consultants: Spa consultant: Naomi Gregory
Reception desk: Design: Block722 Artwork: Esto Association Manufacturer: Form To Matter
Tile & Marble Stories
Furniture: Coffee table “SYB” Design and direction: Block722
Artistic Direction: Block722, Efi Spyrou, Runonart NPO
Sculpture: Elina Ioannou
Art direction: Block722
Photographers: Ana Santl
Styling: Priszcilla Varga
Photographer: Martha Vosdou
Styling: Sissy Rousaki

Companies credits
Owner: Fol Resort
Operator: Hotel Brain
Developer: Apax

PEOPLE

Block722

Ardittou 14, Athens 116 36, Greece