Project: Horizon House
Location: Syros,Cyclades
Architectural Study: ONUS Architecture Studio
Lead Architect: Margarita Kyanidou
Project Team: Margarita Kyanidou, Anna Andreadi, Cristina Ntalli
Status: Proposal
Horizon House is not merely a residence—it is an ecosystem. Rooted in the Cycladic terrain, it redefines sustainability by embracing regenerative design, where architecture does not just minimize impact but actively restores and enhances the environment.
Beyond Sustainability: A Regenerative Approach.
Regenerative architecture goes beyond energy efficiency; it nurtures the land, revives biodiversity, and fosters self-sustaining ecological systems. Horizon House is embedded within the topography, minimizing its footprint while contributing to the esilience of its surroundings. The structure is crafted from materials sourced on-site—excavated stone forms its walls, while reclaimed wood and raw textures ground it in its natural context. Green roofs act as living systems, absorbing rainwater, reducing heat, and providing habitats for native flora and fauna. The strategic planting of indigenous vegetation not only stabilizes the soil but also reintroduces biodiversity, supporting pollinators and local wildlife.
Autonomous and Circular Design
Energy independence is at the core of Horizon House. Micro wind turbines harness the powerful Aegean winds, while a geothermal system stabilizes indoor temperatures, eliminating the need for mechanical heating or cooling. A 300 sqm Blue Roof collects and filters rainwater, ensuring water self-sufficiency. Greywater recycling further optimizes resource efficiency, reinforcing a closed-loop system where waste becomes a resource.
A Living, Breathing Architecture
Every element of Horizon House interacts dynamically with its environment. Deep-set openings channel natural ventilation, reducing energy loads. Skylights sculpt shifting patterns of light, creating a sensory experience attuned to nature’s rhythms. Outdoor spaces are designed not as extensions of the house but as part of the living landscape, blurring the line between built and natural environments.Horizon House challenges conventional architecture by proving that buildings can heal rather than harm. It stands as a manifesto for a future where design regenerates, architecture coexists, and the built environment gives back to the land it inhabits.
Project: Horizon House
Location: Syros,Cyclades
Architectural Study: ONUS Architecture Studio
Lead Architect: Margarita Kyanidou
Project Team: Margarita Kyanidou, Anna Andreadi, Cristina Ntalli
Status: Proposal
Horizon House is a striking embodiment of modern sustainable architecture, seamlessly integrated into the rugged Cycladic landscape. Perched above the Aegean Sea, this Net Zero Energy Building (NZEB) embraces its natural surroundings with a minimalist design that prioritizes simplicity and elegance.
The home is oriented to the south, harnessing sunlight for thermal efficiency while remaining closed to the north to protect from prevailing winds. A central atrium ensures passive ventilation, capturing cool breezes and reducing reliance on mechanical systems. Expansive open-plan living areas and floor-to-ceiling windows frame breathtaking ocean views, blurring the line between interior and exterior spaces. and welcoming living environment for occupants.
Natural stone walls echo the local terrain, while the understated design allows the landscape to take center stage. Incorporating sustainable technologies such as a blue roof for water management and geothermal heating, Horizon House sets a new standard for luxury eco-living, offering a seamless fusion of modern architecture and environmental stewardship. building form but also provide relief from the sun, ensuring thermal comfort within the apartments. Additionally, the planted atrium and vertical garden on the roof contribute to the enhancement of the microclimate, creating a green and sustainable environment around the building.
