CASA COOK SAMOS, SAMOS
ARCHITECTURE: BLOCK722
INTERIOR DESIGN: BLOCK722
YEAR: 2022
STYLE: CONTEMPORARY MEDITERRANEAN MINIMALISM
COUNTRY: GREECE
Greek island architecture has a rather enviable ability to make simplicity look effortless. Casa Cook Samos, set on the island’s northern coast, takes this idea and gives it a distinctly contemporary interpretation. Designed by Athens-based practice Block722, the hotel draws inspiration from the traditional villages of Samos, although the result is considerably more considered than simply arranging a few whitewashed buildings around a swimming pool.
The property is conceived as a collection of low-rise volumes, organised around six swimming pools and a series of intimate courtyards. Rather than creating a single imposing structure, the architects have broken the hotel into smaller architectural elements, allowing pathways, planted spaces and shaded terraces to establish a rhythm reminiscent of a Mediterranean settlement. The geometry is restrained, the proportions carefully balanced and the overall effect quietly confident.
Inside, natural materials do most of the talking. Textured plaster, timber, stone and woven furnishings introduce warmth to the minimalist interiors, while a palette of sand, clay and muted earth tones reflects the surrounding landscape. There is little unnecessary decoration, but plenty of attention to detail. Even the simplest spaces have been thoughtfully composed.
Outside, pergolas, olive trees and generous terraces soften the transition between architecture and nature. Water plays a central role, connecting the buildings visually and creating moments of reflection throughout the property. The sea is never far away, although the arrangement of pools makes a compelling case for staying exactly where you are.
Casa Cook Samos demonstrates that contemporary hospitality need not rely on grand gestures. Sometimes a well-placed wall, a beautifully proportioned courtyard and a little Mediterranean sunshine are quite sufficient.
A LITTLE GREEK VILLAGE CHARM, SIX VERY GOOD REASONS TO STAY BY THE POOL, AND NOT A GRAND ARCHITECTURAL GESTURE IN SIGHT.
