ISTORIA Hotel in Santorini, Greece by Interior Design Laboratorium.

Interior Design Laboratorium presents their first holistic architectural and interior design project, ISTORIA hotel – a unique Mediterranean sanctuary inspired by people’s original stories.

A deserted private residence neighbouring a deep blue patch of the Aegean Sea is transformed into a boutique hotel for travellers with eclectic taste, inspired by luminous images of the Mediterranean locations. The fundamental concept for ISTORIA stems from the building itself and the stories of the people who have resided in it throughout the years.

Laboratorium’s initial contact with the existing building brought to light a true story from the building’s past. The premises included 5 stables where the former owner used to keep her beloved horses. This long-forgotten tale became the spark of inspiration for a collection of ideas and images, eventually manifesting into a new hotel experience.

Taking its name from the Greek word ‘story’, ISTORIA is designed as a retreat and a homecoming where the sun and the sea create a sensation of pure freedom.

The existing residence was remodelled from scratch to accommodate 12 suites. The design team worked hard to create a series of functional spaces while taking advantage of the architectural idiosyncrasies of the existing shell, and incorporating them into the design by giving them the lead role as museum-like features.

The design is entirely inspired by the traditional architecture of Santorini Island, with dominating elements being the traditional arched door and window openings interrupting the thick structural walls. The building forms a sculpture of sorts, which guides the guests through a succession of spaces that enhance the overall experience.

There is an eclectic amalgamation of new and old materials. Black volcanic stone, terracotta coloured plaster, light and dark timbers, raw pieces of rock and black sand from the island’s beaches are some of the main design elements intertwined with the Mediterranean flora such as century-old olive trees, herbs and aloe.

At ISTORIA, every visitor is wrapped in a serene feeling of luxury with powerful Greek light serving as the only spectator.

Related: Porto Fira Suites In Santorini By Interior Design Laboratorium.

[Images courtesy of Interior Design Laboratorium. Photography by Giorgos Sfakianakis & Breba2.]