Inspired by tradition, in harmony with nature

By Ioanna Alexatou – Photos: Alina Lefa

Perched atop a hill with sweeping views of Navarino Bay, Mandarin Oriental, Costa Navarino exudes an effortless elegance as it cascades towards the sea. The villas, featuring green roofs, seem to emerge organically from the verdant landscape, harmoniously blending into the Mediterranean surroundings. Esteemed figures in contemporary architecture and design collaborated to bring this vision to life, combining creativity, design acumen, and deep expertise while adhering to the principles of sustainable development.

The architectural design of Mandarin Oriental, Costa Navarino was led by Alexandros N. Tombazis and Associates Architects and K-Studio, who also played a significant role in shaping the interiors. They worked alongside internationally renowned London-based studios, including Alexander Waterworth, Afroditi Krassa (Afroditi Studio), and Maria Katsarou Vafiadis (MKV Design). While each studio brought its unique style, they all shared a philosophy centered on natural elegance, environmental respect, and local inspiration.

The 140-hectare site in the historic bay of Navarino was a key asset for this project. The design reflects Costa Navarino’s commitment to sustainability, incorporating bioclimatic architecture, green roofs, and local materials. It embraces an eco-conscious approach that encourages interaction between indoor and outdoor spaces, ensuring guests have a meaningful connection with nature.

Alexandros N. Tombazis & Associates Architects, an internationally acclaimed firm founded in 1963, is renowned for pioneering low-energy bioclimatic design. The firm has earned accolades in over 110 domestic and international competitions. On the other hand, K-Studio focuses on creating unique architectural experiences that ethically utilize craftsmanship and tradition. Their approach emphasizes local materials and agricultural products to achieve a sense of natural luxury, which is evident in projects ranging from hotels and residences to restaurants and shops across Greece and Europe.

The design of Mandarin Oriental, Costa Navarino, draws inspiration from local architectural traditions, particularly the “mandria,” which are animal shelters built by farmers. These Peloponnesian structures, made from local stone, exhibit a simplicity of form that follows the natural topography and often incorporates elements such as trees or large rocks. A similar approach, albeit with greater complexity, has been applied to the resort, creating the impression that it has grown organically within the landscape. Olive trees, cypresses, and beds of lavender and thyme are seamlessly integrated into various areas of the exterior, softening the building’s edges.

This connection to nature extends seamlessly into the interior design, encompassing everything from the reception and lounge to the five restaurants and 99 suites and villas. This creates a harmonious blend without distinct boundaries between the exterior and interior, constantly showcasing the tranquil landscape.

Each space is impressive, embodying an understated luxury free of excess. The design highlights natural materials and textures, emphasizing the relationship between design and handcrafted objects, along with artworks that reflect the area and its history. Large openings and skylights invite abundant natural light to flow through, shaping the atmosphere throughout the day. Shadows become part of the decor, shifting the mood in harmony with nature’s rhythms. Every aspect is meticulously crafted, fitting together like a puzzle, with each detail thoughtfully placed.

Elegant simplicity is evident throughout, with an earthy palette that harmonizes with local materials like marble, terrazzo, and stone. Subtle patterns and touches of color enhance the design, complemented by wood carvings and traditional fabrics from a thoughtfully curated collection. The 48 villas’ terraced design, which seems to rise naturally from the lush surroundings, offers unobstructed panoramic views, privacy, and a unique connection with the environment.

The philosophy and craftsmanship of the design firms responsible for the interior design are evident throughout the resort. Tombazis & Associates Architects designed the Kids Club, creating a safe and creatively interactive environment for children. K-Studio, led by Dimitris and Konstantinos Karampatakis, applied their expertise to the Ormos Beach Club, Tahir Restaurant, and Pizza Sapienza. Alexander Waterworth’s studio designed the villa and suite spaces, seamlessly blending comfort with style. The signature elegance of the British designer, known for award-winning hotels, bars, member clubs, theaters, and residences, is also present here, whether in the custom-designed furniture or the materials and fabrics that harmonize with the decorative objects and artworks.

Afroditi Krassa, renowned for revolutionizing hospitality design since 2002 with iconic spaces in London and beyond, infused the holistic and conceptual ethos of Afroditi Studio into the reception, Three Admirals Lounge, Oliviera Restaurant, and the Spa, creating a sense of journey for visitors. MKV Studio and its team crafted the interior of the Royal Villa, one of this year’s most anticipated additions. The award-winning studio’s creative touch is evident in the luxurious beach cabana and the Brasserie de la Bay, reflecting the studio’s high standards and innovative, intelligent design.