Gundari Resort

Set in Folegandros, Greece, Gundari Resort by Block722 was conceived to be at one with its precious, pristine environment. The small Aegean Island is representative of its archipelago’s natural beauty, defined by dramatic rocky hills, low Mediterranean vegetation, and the sea’s endless blue horizon that make it the perfect, contemplative escape. Gundari was designed to blend seamlessly with this context – not only in its physical manifestation, such as its minimalist volumes and material choices, but also in its perfect synchronisation with the island’s slow way of life, offering guests the luxury of time, mindfulness, and relaxation.

The client’s brief outlined an eco-resort, a hospitality complex that is fully in tune with its surroundings, its light footprint respecting the Cycladic Island’s breathtaking scenery and cultural heritage. As a response, Block722, led by founders Sotiris Tsergas and Katja Margaritoglou, envisioned an architecture that brings together tranquillity and the gentle sense of adventure that makes the perfect holiday. At the same time, everything is curated to draw on the island’s visual and cultural language – from the colours used, which were inspired by the surrounding sea and rocky outcrops; to the materials’ anchoring effect; and the overall composition, which nods to historic Aegean village formations.

Located on a generous cliffside site, Gundari was crafted as a family of low structures, spread across the plot. Within it, a series of suites are nestled into the softly undulating terrain, all orientated to offer panoramic views towards the water. To achieve this, the complex was organised around two sections. One is almost invisible, nestled into the earth and featuring green roofs; and the second, while above ground, is still low and discreet. Among them, the main resort building containing the reception and communal amenities sits slightly taller, subtly signalling its presence to the guest, drawing on images of the village hall standing out in the archetypical Greek village’s main square. Off it, seen through an arrangement of volumes that direct the gaze towards the horizon beyond, an infinity swimming pool blends with the colours of the Aegean, immersing the visitor in its blue backdrop. Walking through the complex and exploring its take on island life becomes an organic part of life at Gundari.

Designed in Block722’s signature warm minimalism, which also, importantly, echoes the Cycladic architectural traditions, the resort is pared down and understated. Yet, it is rich in conceptual layering and physical textures through a palette made entirely of natural materials and colours. Marble, wood, and clay play a key role in interiors and exteriors, while much of the natural stone and gravel used in the resort was recycled from the site, ensuring a gentle circularity in its construction. This way, both conceptually and physically, the spaces, clad in earthy tones such as soft beige and warm grey, make for an inviting, subtly luxurious and respectful setting. Hand-picked art, ceramics, and music complement and reinforce this feeling of serenity throughout the resort. Meanwhile, bespoke built-in and freestanding furniture pieces designed by Block722 complete the design, mixed with vintage finds.

Gundari’s expertly calculated, immersive experience is further expressed in the communal areas, many of which are placed in the outdoors, as often is the case in the Cycladic Island’s local vernacular. This allows guests to take in the vistas and be at one with nature and context. Delicate wooden structures connect the sculptural, simple forms of the enclosed, stone areas, offering shade and visual continuity along the resort’s main circulation routes.

Designed with care over a period of five years, the newly opened Gundari Resort thrives in its wild context, making the most of the drama and character of its secluded setting – despite the challenges brought on by the remote location. Thoughtful construction planning meant any equipment, skilled workers, and material that needed to be brought in from the neighbouring islands or the mainland, were done with an immense sense of respect for nature. This ensured a minimal impact on the landscape that further bolsters this design-led, eco-resort’s considerate nature.

Design: Block722
Photography: Ana Santl, Martha Vosdou