- Project: Villa Ypsilon
- Architect: LASSA Architects
- Location: Greece, Finikounda
- Year: 2017
- Area: 150 m2
- Photography: NAARO
Nestled in the olive groves of Finikounda in southern Peloponnese, Villa Ypsilon by LASSA Architects redefines sustainable summer living. Designed by architects Theo Sarantoglou Lalis and Dora Sweijd of the London and Brussels-based LASSA Architects, this 1,614 sq ft residence stands out for its innovative Y-shaped green roof that merges fluidly with the terrain—blurring the line between architecture and nature.
Architecture that Echoes the Landscape
Perched atop a hillside, the villa captures panoramic views of the Schiza and Sapientza islands to the south and the mountainous horizon to the east. The building’s height is deliberately restrained, aligning with the top of surrounding olive trees to preserve visual harmony with the landscape.
The most striking feature, the green roof, is not only a visual gesture but a functional extension of the terrain. Its bifurcating form defines three separate courtyards, each designed to respond to the shifting path of the sun and optimize microclimates throughout the day.
Thoughtful Interior Zoning and Circulation
The layout of Villa Ypsilon is organized into two main wings:
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A private zone housing three bedrooms and two bathrooms, each oriented to capture the morning light and eastern views.
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A communal area featuring a spacious kitchen and living room that opens directly to all three courtyards, creating a continuous indoor-outdoor experience.
Circulation is designed as a promenade, guiding movement through interior spaces, around the home, and even across the roof. This seamless flow supports both intimate relaxation and social interaction.
Low-Impact Design and Efficient Construction
Sustainability was central to the design strategy. The villa’s concrete shell and planted roof create a natural thermal buffer, while cross-ventilation eliminates the need for mechanical cooling. Local materials like terrazzo, marble, and concrete were chosen not only for their aesthetics but also for their environmental efficiency and availability.
Construction was streamlined through off-site prefabrication and self-assembly methods. Given the site’s remote location and tight budget, LASSA Architects adopted a hands-on approach by purchasing a CNC machine. This enabled the precise fabrication of:
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Concrete formworks
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Acoustic ceiling structures
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Custom windows
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Built-in furniture
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Landscape and pool molds
According to Theo Sarantoglou Lalis, this prototyping-led approach minimized reliance on commercial products and allowed for full creative control, completing the build in just seven months.
