Lefteris Tsikandilakis + Architects is proud to announce its selection as the Architizer A+Awards 2023 Popular Choice winner in the "Unbuilt Hospitality" category for its Elysium Caved Villas project. The announcement comes as part of the 11th annual competition sponsored by Architizer, the world's leading online architecture platform and largest international architecture awards program, embracing the theme of 'Honoring the world's best buildings and spaces'.

The Elysium Caved Villas project is characterized by its implementation in the landscape, its construction with the use of local land, and its minimal intervention in the plot. The project combines luxury with a direct connection to nature. Located in Agia Pelagia, in Heraklion, Crete, the project consists of five earth-sheltered villas with private pools.

A horizontal slot creates a void in the nature formations of the land, which orients the complex towards the view. The organic form of the terrain is preserved with the restoration of the existing topography. An artificial cave is carved into a space below the ground level that closely communicates with the earth, while simultaneously being sheltered from it.

The entrances to two side villas is formed through two paths running along the edges of the plot, while the remaining three villas are serviced by separate external stairs and elevators, thus providing maximum privacy when accessing them.

Despite a consistent façade, each house is separated and secluded through the placement of vertical elements that define individual courtyards. Unobstructed views to the sea were also achieved for all of the villas.

A 2m withdrawal behind each villa enables natural ventilation and light on both levels. Simultaneously, it creates a secluded corner in the villa that is ideal for moments of serenity and relaxation.

The materials and furniture used outdoors are perfectly compatible with the natural soil. The stone, wood, earth tones, vegetation, and aromas that thrive in the area contribute to a harmonious landscape that corresponds to that of Crete. Following the exterior, the interior continues in an identical style, with the addition of a unique sense of luxury that conducive to a cozy atmosphere for winter holidays.

The complex provides amenities that allow it to be welcoming all year round, with views of the sea and swimming pools turning it into an ideal summer resort. The individual courtyards formed on the east side of the plot extend on two levels, with a dining area on the first level, and a more private space on the lower space, and a seating arrangement around the infinity pool.

On the northeast side of the plot, a mystical belvedere balcony provides visitors with panoramic views.