The first part in the rebuilding of Torba’s largest hotel, this zone consists of 6 four-bed duplex units, 16 three-bed family suites, and 77 standard rooms. For the architects, it was important to avoid the typical hotel scheme organised in separate compartments, in denial of its predecessors and surroundings, and to seek clues of reconciliation with the space/locality, though without being carried away by romantic vernacular/representation myths. These local clues include the open/semi-open/closed space setup conditioned by the Aegean climate, the sparse distribution of buildings, narrow streets, street niches, buildings’ interdependency with streets, stone-paved courtyards, and the randomness of all these elements. Although the construction technology is reinforced concrete, the attitude to materials reflects Juhani Pallasmaa’s thinking on the importance of using elements that stimulate many sensory experiences, rather than only sight. Lavender, citrus trees, intertwined spaces where the breeze can penetrate, and plays of light and shadow all contribute.
Source: Aga Khan Trust for Culture
