{"id":6990,"date":"2026-01-22T15:10:51","date_gmt":"2026-01-22T13:10:51","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/chnaris.gr\/?post_type=avada_portfolio&p=6990"},"modified":"2026-01-22T15:10:52","modified_gmt":"2026-01-22T13:10:52","slug":"hotel-complex-with-underground-and-above-ground-apartments-in-lentas","status":"publish","type":"avada_portfolio","link":"https:\/\/chnaris.gr\/en\/portfolio\/hotel-complex-with-underground-and-above-ground-apartments-in-lentas\/","title":{"rendered":"Hotel Complex with Underground and Above-Ground Apartments in Lentas"},"content":{"rendered":"

The Challenge<\/h3><\/div>

A key challenge of the project was the management of the archaeological protection zone<\/strong> of the area, combined with the strict requirements governing underground construction<\/strong>. The site\u2019s steep natural slope was not treated as a limitation, but rather as a fundamental design tool.<\/p>\n

The architectural solution needed to respect the landscape, integrate discreetly into its surroundings, and at the same time meet the demands of a contemporary, high-quality tourist accommodation.<\/p>\n<\/div>

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Our Approach<\/h3><\/div>

Underground and above-ground construction<\/h3>\n

The architectural composition is based on the combination of underground and above-ground rooms<\/strong>, allowing the complex to follow the site\u2019s slope while fully benefiting from the southern orientation and open views.<\/p>\n

Underground construction<\/strong> was a key design strategy, enabling parts of the accommodation to be embedded into the ground. This approach reduces the visual impact of the development and enhances its bioclimatic performance. The underground units are designed with a single main facade, contributing to more stable indoor temperatures<\/strong>, lower energy demands<\/strong>, and reduced maintenance requirements<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

At the same time, the above-ground rooms<\/strong> are strategically positioned to enjoy unobstructed views and a more direct relationship with the outdoor spaces, creating a balanced guest experience and a stepped architectural composition that blends harmoniously with the landscape.<\/p>\n

Materials and landscape integration<\/h3>\n

The material palette is based on stone, wood and earthy tones<\/strong>, establishing a natural continuity with the landscape of Southern Crete. The building volumes are broken down into smaller units, allowing them to follow the terrain and integrate seamlessly into the site\u2019s natural relief.<\/p>\n

Functional layout and accessibility<\/h3>\n

The complex includes a reception area<\/strong> and a restaurant<\/strong>, which act as reference points for guests and support the daily operation of the accommodation. Circulation is organised through gentle-sloped ramps<\/strong> for easy access, as well as external staircases<\/strong> connecting the different levels of the site.<\/p>\n

Selected units feature private swimming pools<\/strong>, while a shared pool<\/strong> is also provided for guests. In addition, a dedicated pathway leading down to the sea<\/strong> has been carefully designed, strengthening the connection between the accommodation and its natural setting.<\/p>\n<\/div>

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The Result<\/h3><\/div>

The project is evolving into a low-impact accommodation<\/strong> that makes intelligent use of the terrain, orientation and views, offering a high-quality stay with a reduced environmental footprint.<\/p>\n

The combination of underground and above-ground spaces creates a calm, functional and cohesive ensemble, fully aligned with the character of Lentas and the wider landscape of Southern Crete.<\/p>\n

Would you like us to design your next hotel or accommodation project?<\/h4>\n

Book a free consultation with our team today!<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>

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