Etsi Architects has designed the restoration of Teloneio Kardamyli in Kardamyli, Greece.

This project was an important yet neglected historical monument restoration that the clients imagined as a four-bedroom family home.

"We were struck by our clients' unflinching belief in their vision and destiny when they imagined the Teloneio as their second home," said Etsi Architects. "They recognised the potential for restoration instantly, while also seeing themselves as custodians of an important historical monument."

It had once been Kardamyli’s fortified customs house with dark lower floors for storage, two buildings separated from each other across a small courtyard and partially buried in concrete.

After careful restoration, the architects revealed a fine example of Mani architecture with plenty of potential for life by the sea. By employing heritage building materials and techniques, the Teloneio was returned to its former glory – creating an elegant modern home and transforming both the lives of our clients and the local community.

This project has been longlisted in the residential rebirth project category of Dezeen Awards 2022.

Designer: Etsi Architects

Project: Teloneio Kardamyli