Vora Villas in Santorini, Greece by K-Studio

Vora Villas in Santorini by k studio | Yellowtrace

Designed by Athens-based K-Studio, Vora Villas is the true definition of a boutique hotel. There are only three rooms, carved into the side of a volcanic rock on the island of Santorini. Vora Villas came runner up in the “Best Resort” category at the AHEAD Global Awards, and won first place in the same category for the Europe awards, described by the judges as “small but perfectly formed.”

K-Studio looked no further than the site itself for dramatic inspiration. “We wanted to reveal and control the drama and thrill of the site whilst securing guests with comfort, privacy and a relaxed lifestyle,” say the architects.

The soft curves and arches of traditional Cycladic design contrast the severity of Vora Villas’ volcanic surrounds, the white lime wash finish prominently against the black rock. “The villas are neat, compact and dynamic, taking on a sculpted form when juxtaposed against the straight edge of the volcanic rock path and retaining walls,” says K-Studio.

K-Studio maintained the original layout of an existing villa, with three rooms retreating into the rock to provide the best of both worlds; a sun-kissed façade and a cooler, darker space at the rear providing respite from the heat. Below this are two new villas, stacked atop one another with living space on the upper level and bedroom space below, ensuring maximum privacy for guests. Each villa is carefully angled toward the best sunset vantage point, for which the island is famous. We’d imagine they’re best enjoyed from the spa pools on each terrace.

Custom furniture made by local craftspeople and native materials such as black volcanic rock and Vasaltis marble enhance the hotel’s authenticity. Charred wood and blackened gunmetal contrast light stone finishes and simple pale linens. When the outlook is an uninterrupted panorama of the Aegean ocean, there’s really no need for statement décor. Who new cave living could be so luxe? Sign us up!