Nestled in the mountains of Crete, surrounded by olive trees, lie the beautiful Meraki Studios. They appear to grow out of the rock, almost archaic yet airy and modern. They offer breathtaking panoramic views of the valley and the rocky mountain peaks.
The host family, consisting of Jan, Vanessa, and their children Max and Alva, has lived on Crete since 2022 and opened the studios to guests in 2025. The complex was designed by architect Sigurd Larsen, who also designed the interiors and furnishings. It consists of six boutique apartments and studios of varying sizes, offering a high level of comfort. The rock-like building nestles naturally into the mountain. The energy-efficient construction is inspired by local building traditions, natural materials, and craftsmanship. Calming natural colors and materials dominate the interior. This creates a sense of tranquility and draws the eye to what really matters: the incredibly beautiful natural surroundings in changing light.
An on-site vegetable garden is currently being developed. Many fruit and nut trees have been newly planted, including figs, plums, and mirabelle plums. There are several national parks, beaches, and small towns to explore in the surrounding area. Returning in the evening, you'll find the silvery shimmer of the olive trees, competing with the pool. The breeze gently rustles. Meraki means doing something with passion, care, and love in Greek—you can feel this energy everywhere here.
Studio | from181 € |
Apartment | from276 € |
Designed by star architect Sigurd Larsen in his minimalist style, it is sensitive to the conditions and the region. Local craftsmen utilized local materials, forms, and techniques. The core of the design is a 3D grid skeleton that inserts a rational concrete frame into the irregular contours of the site. This grid is filled with local stone, known for its thermal properties, forming solid walls that provide protection from the Cretan sun. The building is conceived like an engineered rock, geometrically cut yet constructed of local materials that reflect both the geological form and the local logic. Respect for the local climate, craftsmanship, and material knowledge are embedded in every detail. Retaining walls once used for olive cultivation now support a developing organic garden. Each of the six residential units, four studios and two apartments, is cave-like and set into the hillside, designed to enjoy panoramic views of the valley on one side and the rocky mountain peaks on the other.
Solar panels, natural materials, and organic cleaning products are available. Guests are asked to conserve resources. The water is drinking water, thus avoiding unnecessary bottles. The building stands on a terraced plot, which locals call Tsikalaria, and which was formerly cultivated by a man who was particularly knowledgeable about plants. To honor this legacy, new trees and a vegetable garden have been planted.
Photos: ZOLEO & KKROM
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