Kéa Island, a hidden gem in the Cyclades, remains untouched by mass tourism and retains its timeless charm. Located just a 45-minute speedboat ride from Athens, this serene destination offers a taste of authentic Mediterranean living, characterised by rugged landscapes, terraced farmlands, and ancient olive groves. In this idyllic setting, the One&Only Kéa Island Resort and Private Homes stands as the island’s first ultra-luxury resort, thoughtfully designed to honour the land’s heritage by integrating local materials and traditional craftsmanship.
John Heah of London-based Heah & Co crafted the 63-villa resort and 40 private homes, paying tribute to Kéa’s architectural heritage. Using local Kéan stone and Greek marble in the designs, alongside Cycladic architectural elements like lofty atriums, white-washed walls, pergolas, and archways, reflects a deep respect for the island’s history. “I aimed to capture a sense of simplicity and sophistication in the design,” says Heah. “There’s nothing else like it in the Mediterranean.”
The resort’s layout, with its village-style clusters of villas, fosters a sense of community and showcases Greek hospitality. Feature walls constructed from hand-cut local stone evoke the traditional homes and farmhouses of Kéa. The main building, centered around a three-story atrium open to the sky, serves as a striking focal point. “Light plays a pivotal role here,” explains Heah. “The open ceiling invites the beauty of Kéa inside the resort, offering a unique experience of entering a Greek building from long ago.”
The resort’s restaurants and bars embody the essence of Greek island life, blending natural elements with luxurious design. Atria, the heart of the resort, celebrates vibrant Mediterranean cuisine in an atmosphere reminiscent of a bustling village square. The Kosmos lobby lounge, with its open-air atrium and panoramic views of the Aegean Sea, offers a chic, minimalist space that transitions effortlessly from day to night. Meanwhile, the Kaiki pool bar and Èpicora wine bar draw on Cycladic design and Greek craftsmanship to create enchanting, social spaces.
Cascading down the cliff side, the villas are designed to maximise privacy and panoramic views. The use of Greek white marble and hand-cut local stone seamlessly integrates each villa into the natural landscape. These contemporary retreats, with their open archways, lofty atriums, and expansive windows, embody the serenity of island life. The indoor-outdoor spaces, featuring sea-view terraces, infinity pools, and sunken daybeds, are designed for relaxation and enjoyment of Greece’s legendary summer weather.
Kéa’s rich artistic heritage is celebrated throughout the resort, with a collection of original works by Greek artists. From paintings to photography and installations, the art pieces enhance the cultural experience for guests. “We wanted to promote emerging Greek artists and inspire the next generation of talent,” says Heah, emphasizing the resort’s commitment to supporting local creativity.
Beyond the resort, One&Only Kéa Island offers an exclusive collection of 40 Private Homes, designed with the same attention to detail and respect for the environment. These luxury villas, with their infinity-edge pools, spacious living areas, and unobstructed bay views, offer a unique freehold opportunity in Greece. Incorporating natural textures and local materials, these homes blend luxury with simplicity, providing a serene retreat on generous plots of land.
Through thoughtful design and a deep connection to the local landscape, the resort offers guests an unparalleled experience of authentic Mediterranean living.
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