GARDEN
Harmony Garden
DESCRIPTION
Sometimes we find him reading his favorite books while listening to the the serene sound of rustling leaves. Other times, listening to music, enjoying the sunset with the Thermaic Gulf and Mount Olympus in the background. Most of the time though, Thodoris Efstathiou is kneeling over the aromatic lavender or appearing with his hat and wheelbarrow among the wheat stalks, ready to take care of every inch of his Mediterranean garden.
A permanent resident of France, the biochemical engineer specializing in biotechnology, increasingly chooses to return to his estate in Petralona, Halkidiki, after his retirement. An estate he shaped with his wife Françoise and his son Thomas, so that they can spend most of their free time there, creating quality family moments. For him, contact with the garden is a source of creativity. A way to disconnect from technology and reduce daily stress. Even his sleep has significantly improved, as he feels calmer within the harmony of nature.
LOCATION
Petralona, Halkidiki
YEAR OF CONSTRUCTION
2020
WHAT WAS REQUESTED
Theodoros and his family wanted color harmony through the enhancement of Mediterranean nature. They wanted a Mediterranean garden with low maintenance needs, which could withstand the area’s extreme summer temperatures with minimal water. At the same time, they desired a beautiful result, as the outdoor area of the residence is the favorite gathering spot for the entire family.
THE GREEN SOLUTION
Inspired by the elements of nature and the natural features of the wider area, the olive groves, the Petralona caves and the sea view, we conceived the concept of the Flow Garden. A Mediterranean garden with flow resulting from the natural and organic shapes in the garden. A flow that brings harmony. A sustainable solution developed based on the principles of xeriscape landscape. Without the presence of lawn, only drought-resistant plants in a color palette moving between olive green, beige, lilac, brown and glaucous. Natural “embraces” with plants, to which different paths with gravel of various sizes lead. The large rocks enhance the sense of the Mediterranean landscape and are used to create levels.
Thus, Mr. Theodoros and his family can admire their entire garden while enjoying their meal inside the residence or harmonize with the balance of nature’s elements when outdoors. When the wind blows, the dance of the graminoid plants and the melody they produce remind Mr. Theodoros of his childhood experiences from the village. And this is the clearest proof that he has returned home.
PROJECT IMAGES
