Natura May - June 2013 | Page 95

The entire shell is constructed by using limestone of a constant 4cm thickness and was shaped by the very basic stacking, coursing and stepping of these stones in an allusion to primitive forms. The limestone shell provides high thermal protection and, like the volcanic tuff of the cliffs, ages naturally over time. The mechanical elements used for drainage and ventilation are housed beneath this limestone surface while white marble was used in the courtyard, the terrace and the interior. The Orchard corral is the largest area of the project containing 550 olive trees, grape vines, vegetables and aromatic herbs. It is surrounded by a 700m long natural stonewall in order to protect the planting zone from the prevailing winds and wild goats. Taking advantage of the natural slope leading down through the sea, this border element becomes a building element, a natural stonewall, on the southern portion of the corral. This wall then becomes the exterior façade of the Guest House placed in the site. The Guest House visible only from the seaside is characterized by these buried stonewalls in the landscape and its protected orientation. The house accessed by a ramp opens directly to the Orchard corral creating ventilation through the inner space of the house. The ecologically minded Guest MAYIS-HAZİRAN / MAY-JUNE 2013 • NATURA 95