Gundari Resort: Harmonizing Nature And Luxury
How Gundari Resort Redefines Eco-Friendly Elegance on Folegandros Island.
Perched on the cliffs of Folegandros, Greece, Gundari Resort, designed by Block722 Architects+, is a harmonious blend of luxury and nature. Designed to embrace the island’s rugged beauty and serene atmosphere, this eco-resort offers an experience of understated elegance amidst the untouched landscapes of the Aegean.
The Gundari Resort was conceived as a sanctuary that aligns with Folegandros’ pristine environment. The island, known for its dramatic rocky hills, sparse Mediterranean vegetation and endless blue horizon, provides a perfect backdrop for the resort’s design. Block722, led by architect Sotiris Tsergas and interior designer Katja Margaritoglou, aimed to create a complex that not only complements but also enhances its surroundings.
The resort’s design brief emphasized sustainability and respect for the island’s unique character. This resulted in an architectural approach that prioritized minimal impact on the landscape while maximizing guest comfort. The seamlessly into the cliffside. While the buildings’ green roofs and natural materials make them appear as if they are merging with the earth, almost disappearing into the landscape, every suite has been designed to provide panoramic views of the Aegean Sea.
Block722’s vision for Gundari marries tranquility with a subtle sense of adventure. The resort’s layout is inspired by traditional Aegean village forms, and every element has been carefully curated to reflect the island’s visual and cultural heritage. The colour palette draws from the surrounding sea and rocky outcrops, with materials chosen for their grounding effect, creating a serene and intimate atmosphere throughout the resort.
The complex is divided into two sections. The first is a hidden gem nestled into the earth, with green roofs blending into the landscape. The second, while still maintaining a low profile, rises gently above the ground. Central to the resort is the main building that houses the reception and communal areas. Its subtle prominence is reminiscent of a village hall, anchoring the resort’s design within the island’s cultural context.
A highlight of Gundari is its infinity pool, positioned to visually merge seamlessly with the Aegean Sea beyond. Guests are invited to immerse themselves in the blue waters while absorbing the expansive views. The communal areas, many of which are outdoors, are connected by delicate wooden structures that provide shade and continuity, echoing the Cycladic tradition of integrating indoor and outdoor spaces.
Marble, wood and clay are integral to the design of both the interiors and exteriors at Gundari Resort. Additionally, much of the natural stone and gravel used throughout the property was recycled from the site itself, ensuring a sustainable approach that created a gentle circularity in the construction process. This careful use of materials reinforces the resort’s commitment to sustainability while creating a space that feels both luxurious and respectful of its environment. Earthy tones such as soft beige and warm grey complement the natural textures, creating a welcoming and subtly sophisticated environment.
Art plays a significant role in the resort’s ambience. Hand-picked pieces, ceramics and music enhance the sense of serenity, while bespoke furniture pieces, both built-in and freestanding, were specially designed by Block722 to complete the esthetic. Vintage finds are mixed with these custom creations, adding a personal touch to each space.
Gundari’s construction was a five-year journey that required meticulous planning and a deep respect for nature. Given the island’s remote location, all materials, equipment and skilled labour had to be carefully transported from neighbouring islands and the mainland. This logistical challenge was met with a commitment to minimizing the resort’s environmental footprint, ensuring that the development preserved the integrity of its surroundings.
With its opening, Gundari Resort offers more than just a place to stay. It is an experience — a dialogue between architecture and nature, between tradition and modernity. For those seeking a retreat that offers peace, luxury and a profound connection to the raw beauty of the Greek Islands, Gundari is just such a destination.