Paros, Greece — Votsalakia Seaside Escape is a collection of five residences on the southern coast of Paros, occupying a 5,700-square-metre site overlooking the Aegean Sea, 20 metres from the shoreline and within walking distance of the fishing village of Alyki.
Designed by ISV Architects, led by Alexander van Gilder, and F&K Kydoniatis Architects, the development was conceived as a series of permanent developments. The project spans both village and non-village planning zones, requiring a design approach responsive to differing planning regulations and the site’s coastal setting.
“We approached Votsalakia as residential architecture first,” said Konstantinos Kydoniatis, Lead Architect. “The challenge was to create homes that respond to the climate, landscape and traditions of Paros while supporting contemporary living.”
Drawing on the scale and form of Cycladic settlements, the project comprises white cubic volumes connected by terraces, courtyards and outdoor rooms. Several residences feature triple-height atriums that bring natural light into the centre of the homes and create visual connections between floors.
Covered verandas, patios, courtyards and eucalyptus pergolas provide shelter from the summer sun and prevailing winds, while large openings maximise natural ventilation and sea views.
Landscape architect Helli Pangalou (HPLAA), whose work includes the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center in Athens and collaborations with Renzo Piano, designed the gardens using Mediterranean planting, native species and local stonework.
Architectural lighting by IFI Lighting was developed to enhance the residences after dark while maintaining views of the night sky and surrounding landscape.
Inside, bespoke joinery designed by Konstantinos Kydoniatis runs throughout the residences, incorporating custom-built furniture and integrated storage. Furnishings from Italian design house MDF Italia complement a palette of stone, timber and natural finishes selected for durability and suitability to the island environment.
The project incorporates solar power, rainwater collection, advanced insulation and passive design strategies to reduce energy consumption and support year-round occupation.
Developed by Alexandra Skaltsogianni, whose work on Paros spans more than two decades, the project reflects lessons learned from developing and operating hospitality properties on the island.
“After twenty-two years of welcoming guests to Paros, you understand what genuinely improves everyday living,” said Skaltsogianni. “Every decision was guided by comfort, simplicity and connection to the outdoors. These are homes designed to be lived in, not simply visited.”
Alexander van Gilder, Founder and Senior Partner of ISV Architects, added: “At ISV, we begin with people and the way they live. For Votsalakia, the ambition was to create homes shaped by light, climate, movement and daily life on Paros. The architecture draws on the spatial qualities of Cycladic settlements with courtyards, terraces and sheltered outdoor rooms, interpreted through a contemporary lens.”
The result is a project shaped by architecture, landscape and daily life, offering a residential perspective on hospitality within one of the Cyclades’ most sought-after destinations.
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About Votsalakia Villas & Makria Miti
Founded by Alexandra Skaltsogianni, Votsalakia Villas and Makria Miti are among Paros’ pioneering luxury villa brands. Since 2003, the company has developed, owned and managed distinctive private residences that offer travellers an authentic, design-led and experience-driven way to discover the Cyclades.
Today, the portfolio includes the established Makria Miti collection and the contemporary Votsalakia Villas, combining privacy, architecture and a strong connection to the island’s landscape and culture.
Committed to preserving the character of Paros, the company actively supports environmental and community initiatives and is a founding partner of the South Paros Association.
About Alexandra Skaltsogianni
Alexandra Skaltsogianni is a property developer whose work is deeply influenced by the natural beauty, architecture and traditions of Paros. After a successful career in advertising, she relocated to the island and began developing distinctive private residences that celebrate the authentic Cycladic lifestyle. Today she owns and manages a portfolio of luxury villas including Makria Miti and Votsalakia Villas, while actively supporting environmental, cultural and community initiatives that help preserve the unique character of Paros. Her work reflects a long-standing commitment to responsible hospitality, timeless design and meaningful connections to place.
