Situated within a secluded natural area of a Greek Cycladic island, in the middle of a harsh landscape stands a stark geometric form—sits the Parallel House. Designed by En Route Architects in collaboration with Kokkinou Kourkoulas Architects & Associates, the dwelling is a contemporary reinterpretation of a rustic stone house. An alluring minimalist variation of a regional staple. 

The architects went beyond the scuptural form when desigining a distinctive dwelling, as they designed a fully-fledged project with sustainable solutions. As expected with the straightforward project title, the house is placed in parallel to the seaside, gifting its residents with un unobstructed view of the ocean. The backside of the dwelling supports all the functions, housing the technology for heating, cooling, and energy generation.

The true sculptural element worthy of additional praise is the cinematic frame in each room, offering a gorgeous opportunity to witness the Aegean Sea and the neighbouring islands through architecture as a lens. Exposed concrete showers all parts of the residence, from the quiet patio to the fully enclosed private bedroom. The sequence of rooms gradually introduces privacy from one opposite to the next.

Parallel House draws a beautiful narrative of stark geometry as an opposition to the natural and untouched landscape that surrounds it. It manages to both elevate the experience of enjoying the concrete haven and the nature all around. A compromise with exceptional results.