The Under Earth Estate Kassiopi, Corfu

This project presents a newly designed single-storey residence with a basement and distinctive under-earth building, carefully positioned within the natural landscape of the plot.

Rather than imposing itself upon the site, the architecture has been conceived as a continuation of it, with different levels, outdoor spaces, water features and planted areas working together to create a strong relationship between the residence and its surroundings.

Arrival & Ground Floor

Access to the property is provided from the western side of the plot, with separate routes for vehicles and pedestrians. Vehicles approach via a dedicated ramp, while pedestrian access is provided by a staircase.

The principal entrance is positioned at ground-floor level (+0.10), where the main living spaces open directly towards the landscape and swimming pool, creating a natural connection between the interior and exterior.

The main residence centres around an open-plan kitchen, dining and living area, with large openings framing uninterrupted views towards the horizon and sea. A guest WC and walk-in wardrobe are also located on this level.

Outdoor living forms an important part of the design. The swimming pool is accompanied by a water feature incorporating a ramp towards the pool, while an outdoor dining area sits beneath a pergola with reed screening. The arrangement provides sheltered areas for dining and relaxation while maintaining an open connection with the surrounding landscape.

The Lower Levels

A staircase from the ground floor provides access to Basement A at level -3.00, where the supporting and utility functions of the residence are located.

Basement A accommodates utility areas, mechanical rooms, a laundry room, bathroom and storage spaces. The layout also offers flexibility for future owners. The auxiliary room could alternatively be transformed into a generous master bedroom with its own ensuite bathroom, while the adjoining open space could become an additional living area.

This adaptability gives the property potential to evolve according to the needs of its owners, whether used as a private residence, family home or hospitality-led retreat.

From here, the internal circulation core, incorporating both a staircase and elevator, continues to Basement B and the under-earth building at level -6.10.

This lower level forms the private accommodation wing of the residence, comprising four master bedrooms, each with its own ensuite bathroom. A dedicated wellness area provides space for exercise, massage or personal relaxation.

Each bedroom has access to additional outdoor space at this level, while two water features create a quieter and more secluded environment. The water features have a maximum depth of 1.20 metres.

The connection between the two buildings extends beyond the internal circulation.

An additional outdoor pathway, formed by a staircase positioned between the main residence and the under-earth building, creates a natural journey through the site. Surrounded by vegetation, the route becomes an important part of the experience rather than simply a means of moving between levels.

The progression through the property moves from the open, elevated living spaces of the main residence towards the more private and sheltered under-earth accommodation below.

Residence & Under-Earth Building: Key Data

Single-storey residence, including external thermal insulation: 102.60 m²

Basement A: 99.54 m²

Under-earth building: 132.79 m²

Clear internal height: 2.70 m

Principal Uses & Facilities

Open-plan kitchen, living and dining area
1 WC
1 laundry room
1 mechanical room
2 water tanks
2 swimming-pool mechanical rooms
1 swimming pool
3 water features
5 master bedrooms, each with an ensuite bathroom
1 dedicated wellness area

Accessibility:
Accessibility has been incorporated into the design from the outset, allowing the residence and its principal facilities to be comfortably accessed by all visitors.

The plot is accessed from a municipal road on its western side. Vehicle access is provided via a dedicated inclined ramp, with a maximum gradient of 21.6%, while pedestrians have a separate staircase access.

The internal circulation core connects the different levels of the residence, with an elevator providing access between the main residence and the under-earth accommodation.

Accessible vehicle access reaches level +0.33, followed by a ramp leading to the principal external entrance at level +0.07. The design has therefore been developed to minimise unnecessary limitations on the use of the property and its facilities.

Landscape & Outdoor Environment:
The landscape sits at the heart of the concept.

Alongside the internal connection between the two buildings, the external pathway creates a slower and more immersive route through the site, leading from the main residence towards the under-earth accommodation.

The plot will be landscaped with carefully selected vegetation, while the sea remains visible across the horizon. Undeveloped areas will largely remain untouched, with intervention limited to areas where landscaping is required.

Where necessary, the land will be shaped into planted green areas incorporating aromatic plants and herbs, while maintaining the property’s open views towards the sea.

The intention is not to create a highly manicured garden, but to preserve and enhance the natural character of the site.

The architecture has been designed to respond sensitively to the existing topography and natural environment while meeting the required aesthetic standards.

Its approach is deliberately restrained. Rather than appearing as a prominent structure imposed upon the land, the residence has been positioned and shaped to sit naturally within its surroundings, including when viewed from the road axis.

The result is a distinctive property in which architecture, interior spaces, terraces, water features, vegetation and sea views come together as one considered environment.

The experience moves from the open living spaces of the main residence, through landscaped pathways and outdoor areas, and down into the more private under-earth accommodation.

It is this relationship between architecture and landscape that gives the project its character: a residence designed not simply to occupy its setting, but to live within it.

For further information about this exceptional project, its architectural concept and the opportunities it presents, book a call with us to discuss the project further and explore the details of this phenomenal residence.