KOUFONISIA HOTEL & RESORT MASTERPLAN
The Koufonisia Hotel & Resort Masterplan is a comprehensive development project for a luxury resort located in Koufonisia, Greece, one of the most exclusive islands of the Cyclades. This large-scale intervention plan covers 26,303.05 m², including the renovation of the existing hotel, expansion with new suites and villas, and the integration of a seafront taverna, which will function as a gastronomic and social meeting point for guests and visitors.

Project Objectives
The masterplan has as its main objective the integration of the resort as a functional and sustainable unit, enhancing the guest experience through a harmonious architectural and landscape design. It seeks to reinforce the visual identity of the resort through a unified architectural language, optimize internal mobility by implementing pedestrian paths and electric transport, and apply sustainable and bioclimatic strategies in all built and landscaped spaces. Furthermore, priority is given to creating exclusive and highly comfortable spaces that allow visitors to enjoy a relaxing and sophisticated environment.

Components of the Masterplan
1. Hotel & Resort
The existing hotel occupies an area of 15,046.89 m² and is made up of 8 buildings with a total of 55 rooms. As part of the renovation project, both the interiors and exteriors will be improved, incorporating high-quality furniture and elegant finishes. All rooms on the ground floor will have private pools, while the common areas will include a central pool, a spa, a gym, and a play area with a children's pool next to the restaurant.

The hotel expansion includes the construction of 20 new luxury suites with private terraces and pools. In addition, 6 executive suites will be added, each with its own rooftop and private pool. A new basement building will also be built, intended for storage, staff rooms, as well as an additional spa and gym area.

2. The Village (Residential Area)
On a total area of 7,244.42 m², the plan includes 8 plots where 16 luxury villas will be built. Each villa will have 200 m² spread over two levels plus basement, and will include a private pool and garden terrace.

The design of these villas is modular and adaptable, allowing for optimising privacy and views. In addition, bioclimatic architecture principles have been integrated, guaranteeing high energy efficiency and a lower environmental impact.

To ensure connectivity with the hotel and the surroundings, 5-metre wide pedestrian paths will be created that will link the villas with the rest of the resort. The road will be shared with bicycles and electric vehicles, promoting sustainable mobility and reducing car traffic in the area.

3. The Taverna (Food and Leisure Area)
The Taverna will occupy an area of 4,011.74 m², becoming a key point of the resort for gastronomy and leisure. The space will have a restaurant-bar with a terrace and rooftop, offering spectacular views of the sea. In addition, a minimarket and boutiques with local products will be included, allowing guests and visitors to access a selection of high-quality, local items.

The area will also house 16 exclusive suites with direct access to the beach, each with private pools. To facilitate the logistics of the resort, a basement will be built that will function as a parking lot and storage area.

Landscape Strategy and Sustainability
Landscape Design
The masterplan respects and enhances the existing vegetation, incorporating a selection of resistant Mediterranean species, such as olive trees, carob trees, cypresses, lavenders, agaves and succulents. In addition, perennial shrubs and grasses will be planted to enrich the ecosystem and reduce maintenance.

To improve thermal comfort, pergolas and shade areas will be implemented, while pavements will be made of natural stone, reinforcing the local identity. In dry areas, gravel and succulents will be used, minimizing the need for irrigation and promoting water efficiency.

Sustainability and Energy Efficiency
The design follows Passivhaus and bioclimatic principles, maximizing thermal comfort through the use of local materials and passive air conditioning strategies. Low environmental impact materials will be prioritized, reducing the resort's carbon footprint.

In terms of mobility, the resort will have internal electric transport and will promote the reduction of emissions and noise. The consumption of local products and organic cuisine will also be encouraged, contributing to the circular economy and the well-being of the local community.

Implementation Phases
The project will be developed in different phases to ensure its viability and minimize environmental impact. Currently, it is in Phase A, which encompasses landscaping enhancement and the construction of key infrastructure.

Conclusion
Koufonisi Hotel & Resort Masterplan is an ambitious proposal that seeks to position itself as a benchmark for sustainable luxury in the Cyclades. Its combination of elegant architecture, respect for the environment and exclusive services makes it a unique destination for high-end tourism. With a design that balances luxury with sustainability, this resort will offer an unrivalled experience for those seeking a sophisticated getaway on one of the most beautiful islands in the Aegean Sea.