Istoria Hotel
London-based Greek Photographer George Kroustallis of Minorstep captures the
stunning Istoria hotel on the island of Santorini: A unique Mediterranean sanctuary inspired by people’s original stories. A deserted private residence neighbouring a deep blue patch of the Aegean Sea is transformed into a boutique hotel for travellers with eclectic taste, inspired by luminous images of the Mediterranean
London-based Greek Photographer George Kroustallis of Minorstep captures the
stunning Istoria hotel on the island of Santorini.
Interior Design Laboratorium presents their holistic architectural and interior design project, ISTORIA - a unique Mediterranean sanctuary inspired by people’s original stories. A deserted private residence neighbouring a deep blue patch of the Aegean Sea is transformed into a boutique hotel for travellers with eclectic taste, inspired by luminous images of the Mediterranean.
The fundamental concept for ISTORIA stems from the building itself and the stories of the people who have resided in it throughout the years. Laboratorium’s initial contact with the existing building brought to light a true story from the building’s past. The premises included 5 stables where the former owner used to keep her beloved horses. This long-forgotten tale became the spark of inspiration for a collection of ideas and images, eventually manifesting into a new hotel experience
The visitor is introduced upon the arched entryway to the deep terracotta coloured private patio, before entering the suites. The visitor’s route continues to the stimulating interiors and extends itself to secluded verandas with either Jacuzzi or private pools. The multiple public and private relaxation points allow the guest to choose between enjoying the view to the famous Black Beach of the island and withdrawing from the public eye in private verandas.
The outdoor areas of the hotel, also sheltered from the public eye, unfold slowly before the visitor while presenting imposing water elements that lead up to the central hotel pool made of stone slabs. An image that captivates the visitor since it reflects the distinctive volcanic beaches of the island.
The exterior building materials consist of traditional colored plaster, black volcanic rocks and dark sand that one encounters on the volcanic topography of the island. The interior floors are cladded in stone textures and traditional cement methods.
Authentic elements that were found in the old residence, such as parts of the old wooden roof and stone pillars, were incorporated in the interior design, offering a theatrical touch to the hotel spaces while creating a dialogue between the present and the past. For the interior of the 12 suites, Interior Design Laboratorium combined the simplified minimalism of the Cycladic style together with emblematic details.
The interchange between large and small proportions of the building’s openings as well as the asymmetry of the interior spaces awakens the recollection of being in a friendly house, inviting the visitor to sink into a warm feeling of authentic hospitality. The design is an eclectic amalgamation of new and old materials. Black volcanic stone, terracotta-colored plaster, light and dark colored wood, raw pieces of rock, and black sand from the island’s beaches are the main design elements that are intertwined with the verdant Mediterranean flora such as century old olive trees, herbs, and aloe.
The meticulous furnishings with traditional references were designed exclusively for ISTORIA by Interior Design Laboratorium. The furniture is combined with distressed pieces of stone, while the traditional art of rope weaving was used for certain pieces. The shades and decorative elements of ISTORIA are mostly inspired by the archaeological findings and murals that were discovered in the prehistoric settlement of the Akrotiri area. ISTORIA is predominated by beige shaded walls, earthy fabrics along with deep blue details, and enchanting terracotta tones complementing the connection with the history, the energy and the unique soil of Santorini Island.
