Makries Mires Residence Architecture: A Harmonious Blend of Concrete and Landscape

The Makries Mires Residence, designed by Anastasiou Misseri, redefines contemporary residential architecture in Cyprus. Situated on the outskirts of Nicosia, this 274 m² home embodies a seamless integration of modernist design principles with environmental consciousness. The architectural approach establishes an independent language within a neighborhood characterized by diverse styles and forms, creating a residence that is both visually striking and functionally efficient.

A Table-Like Structure Maximizing Outdoor Space

The residence is strategically positioned towards the front of a narrow rectangular plot, allowing for an expansive garden at the rear. A key design element is its table-like structure, which not only anchors the house but also enhances spatial efficiency. This architectural choice optimizes the relationship between built and open space, ensuring that the house does not feel enclosed despite its urban setting.

A defining feature of the design is the concrete canopy that wraps around the structure. Cast in-situ, this canopy serves a dual function—shielding the interior from sun and rain while also offering shelter to the perimeter outdoor spaces. This protective element emphasizes the balance between indoor and outdoor living, a key consideration in Mediterranean architecture.

The Impact of the Grand Canopy on Spatial Experience

One of the most striking architectural gestures is the 4-meter-long cantilevered canopy extending into the garden. This covered veranda, supported by a single cylindrical concrete column, enhances the spatial grandeur of the exterior while maintaining structural elegance. The bold projection of the canopy creates a shaded outdoor area that functions as a transitional space, reinforcing the relationship between nature and architecture.

A Dual-Zone Interior for Optimized Living

The internal layout of Makries Mires Residence is divided into two distinct zones, each responding to environmental and functional needs. The western zone houses the bedrooms, strategically positioned to capture the cooling evening breezes during Cyprus' warm summers. This passive cooling strategy enhances comfort while reducing energy consumption.

The eastern zone accommodates the main living spaces, designed with expansive openings that frame views of the surrounding landscape. These large openings not only flood the interiors with natural light but also create a seamless connection between the indoor and outdoor environments.

The Sculptural Presence of the Exposed Concrete Wall

A central architectural feature of the house is a 17-meter-long exposed concrete wall that runs the entire length of the structure. More than just a structural element, this wall serves as a sculptural centerpiece, reinforcing the materiality of the design. It also provides a sense of privacy, subtly dividing the home’s two primary zones while maintaining a sense of openness.

This interplay between solid and void, enclosure and openness, results in a residence that feels both protected and connected to its surroundings. The restrained material palette, dominated by concrete, enhances the raw yet refined aesthetic of the home.

A Testament to Contemporary Cypriot Architecture

Makries Mires Residence stands as a testament to the evolving landscape of Cypriot architecture. By blending modernist principles with environmental sensitivity, Anastasiou Misseri has created a home that respects its context while making a bold architectural statement. The careful orchestration of space, materiality, and light ensures that the residence remains timeless, offering a harmonious living experience that is both innovative and rooted in its environment.

All Photographs are works of James Retief