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Redesigning the Guest Experience: Architectural Renovation of a Hotel in Rethymno

About the project

In Rodakino, a landscape defined by authenticity and Cretan tradition, the brief was to renew part of an existing hotel complex and create a hospitality experience that truly reflects the character of the place. Our architectural study focused on the renovation of selected rooms and the redesign of the façades, with the goal of elevating guest comfort, strengthening the hotel’s commercial performance, and aligning the property with contemporary hospitality standards.

The Challenge

The complex required a complete functional and aesthetic upgrade without new construction, preserving both its authentic architectural character and its relationship with the natural environment.

At the same time, the owners sought to:

  • enhance commercial value through an improved guest experience,
  • introduce accessibility solutions for people with disabilities,
  • upgrade the building’s energy efficiency and mechanical systems, and
  • unify the hotel’s identity through a coherent redesign of the exterior.

The challenge was to achieve all of this through an architecture that “speaks the language” of the place, maintaining the accommodation’s authentic essence.

Our Approach

Façade Redesign & Building Envelope

The renovation of the façades was a central part of the study. We worked with warm, natural tones within the thermal façade system and reshaped the volumes with:

  • new pergolas,
  • glass railing systems,
  • larger openings,
  • wooden and metal decorative beams on the balconies.

The new composition creates clearer geometry and a modern identity, while enhancing privacy for guests.

Interior Room Design

The rooms were redesigned with a strong emphasis on functionality and spatial ergonomics. The material palette is grounded in wood, used extensively in wardrobes, cladding, and custom furniture, creating an atmosphere of warmth and calmness.

The main room type was reorganised to provide greater privacy for couples, while the functions of the bathroom were separated into distinct areas:

  • an open washbasin integrated into the room,
  • an independent shower space with soft lighting,
  • a separate WC.

This layout is complemented by:

  • open wardrobes,
  • a built-in vanity,
  • a centrally positioned bed that organises the spatial flow.

The result is a minimal, natural, and comfortable environment designed to appeal to a wide range of travellers.

Renovation of Common Outdoor Areas

The exterior shared spaces were redesigned to create a more pleasant and functional environment. The study includes:

  • new planting schemes,
  • upgraded seating areas,
  • redesigned circulation routes,
  • improved low-consumption lighting.

The design approach emphasises respect for the landscape and sustainable resource management.

Accessibility for People with Disabilities

Existing rooms were adapted to meet accessibility standards for guests with disabilities. The design ensures full autonomy, safe movement, and ergonomic use of both the bathroom and the bedroom.

Energy Upgrade & Mechanical Installations

The project includes a comprehensive energy upgrade across the property:

  • new mechanical and electrical installations for the entire hotel,
  • improved thermal insulation,
  • low-consumption lighting and HVAC systems,
  • upgraded water supply and drainage networks.

This strategy significantly reduces the building’s energy footprint while enhancing its long-term commercial value.

Upgraded common outdoor areas with new seating and pathways

The Result

Our firm renovated 15 rooms within the Polirizos Hotel complex. The completed project delivers:

  • Guest rooms of high aesthetic quality and comfort
  • Privacy and convenience for couples and families
  • Full accessibility for all visitors
  • A cohesive architectural identity across façades and shared areas
  • An energy-efficient building with lower operating costs
  • A substantial boost in the hotel’s overall commercial value and competitiveness
  • Interested in redesigning your hotel or tourist accommodation?

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Project Details

Location: Rodakino, Rethymno

Category: Hotels & Tourist Accommodations

Service: Architectural Design, Renovation

Status: Completed

Year: 2024