Page 20 - DOMES 2022

Focus

Makridis’ Architectural Signature

The masterminds behind Domes of Corfu, Autograph Collection
and Domes Aulūs Zante, Makridis Associates

artfully combined local aesthetics with cutting edge design.

Thodoris
Makridis
and Eleanna
Makridou, Arches,
archtects of arcades, balconies
the Makridis and patios are some
Associates. of the elements
of the architectural
WHEN IT CAME to the building of Domes of Corfu, Autograph stimuli from the island but also from the myth of Homer that vocabulary of the
Collection, and Domes Aulūs Zante as well, Makridis Associ- vividly describes the visit of the traveler Odysseus to the magical Domes of
Corfu.
ates were called upon to create innovative buildings that were land of the Phaeacians.
in total harmony with their natural surroundings. We caught The Domes of Corfu, Autograph Collection resort harmoni-
up with the firm’s architects and partners, namely Thodor- ously combines local culture and tradition with a relaxed, Ve-
is Makridis and Eleanna Makridou to discuss more about their netian and bohemian style. What are the pieces of the archi-
design approach. tectural puzzle that you wanted to put together?
Can you describe to us a little about the design philosophy be- Arches, arcades, balconies and patios are just some of the ele-
hind Domes of Corfu, Autograph Collection? ments of the architectural vocabulary that finds its roots in the
Whenever our office receives a new brief for a project – espe- traditional architecture seen throughout the island of Corfu. In-
cially when it comes to hospitality based architecture – the most spired by the local colour palette, all of the spaces are based on
important goal for our team is to harmonise our design with the ceramic and earthy tones in various tones, since it is unques-
location. This is achieved by creating deeper connections with tionably the couleur local of the island. Characteristic details in-
history, architecture and tradition so that the work fully express- clude the terracotta tiles that line the floors indoors and out-
es the spirit of the place, albeit through a modern look or lens. As doors, unifying the interior with the exterior. Patterns, textures
a result, visitors get to experience a unique experience and be- on surfaces and fabrics, rough materials and handmade furni-
come one with the place. ture combine to create a unique “mosaic” completed by the is- ing Domes of Corfu, Autograph Collection in terms of design? ity. At the same time, the boundaries of the interior with the ex-
This is exactly how we took on the Domes of Corfu, Autograph land’s endemic flora and atmospheric lighting. What were the elements of the coastal area that you relied on terior become blurred and fluid due to the transitional covered
Collection, with the same method, drawing experiences and Was the Glyfada area on the island of Corfu suitable for host- and wanted to highlight? semi-outdoor spaces and the galleries with the large frames.
The unquestionably mythical landscape is characterized by a These transitional spaces give rise to a dialogue between man
magical naturalness as well as strong contrasts that are howev- and nature, while at the same time offering him or her a sense of
er perfectly harmonized with each other, elements that were a intimacy, due to their human scale.
source for a creative dialogue between the building and its sur- What is the signature element that you believe sums up your
rounding environment. in which it is recorded. The shade and signature as Makridis Associates at Domes of Corfu, Auto-
texture of the sand led us to natural dyes and materials. The ex- graph Collection?
otic landscape is also seen through the thick vegetation, which The warm color of the Corfiot palette that dominates in all areas,
grows inside the buildings in the central atriums. in combination with all the local architectural elements, are un-
How was the balance kept intact with the external environ- doubtedly the factors that determine the authentic physiogno-
ment? my of the project. We find it in different qualities throughout the
The spaces were redesigned so that they open out on to the hotel, through the natural paint, terracotta tiles, and the oxidized
central atriums that form the core of the main building. Such an surfaces of the facades, it creates atmospheric spaces that are
Domes Aulūs Zante Domes of Corfu, Autograph Collection
architectural gesture which looks outdoors ensures permeabil- familiar and welcoming.

20 • DOMES Stories DOMES Stories • 21