(English) SEA apartments

(English) SEA apartments 

‘sea’ apartments is a new project nestled in the heart of the historic village of Dhërmi. The establishment used to be a space to collect and press olives, but the building stayed demolished for decades, before being thoughtfully rebuilt.

The original existing stone walls were preserved, while the rest of the structure was crafted using traditional stone wall techniques, in keeping with Dhërmi's architectural heritage. The outer walls serve as retaining components, blending the building seamlessly into the surrounding landscape. The front facade windows retain their original placement and width but have been made higher & complemented by wooden shutters. This subtle enhancement improves natural light flow and elevates the interior experience, while respecting the building’s historical charm & character.

The building's volume was thoughtfully maximized to accommodate two apartments: sea 1 and sea 2; each with entrances on the northwest and southwest sides, while the other facades are blind walls due to site constraints.

Both apartments share similar layouts but with distinct arrangements.

sea 1 features an open layout, with service areas (toilet and kitchen) positioned next to the blind walls. The remaining spaces flow fluidly into one another, with a glass partition in the bedroom that not only addresses the need for natural light but has become a defining feature of the apartment. The living area is carefully furnished with all essentials, including a workspace by the window offering a view of the village. A fireplace and TV are positioned on the southwest side, seamlessly connecting to the rest of the apartment and providing a cozy atmosphere that can also be enjoyed from the comfort of the bedroom.

sea 2, in contrast, offers more defined spaces, with a wooden roof that honors Dhërmi’s building traditions and adds warmth to the interiors. The minimalist furnishings are designed to complement the roof's height, while the cozy bedroom features low windows that can double as seats, thanks to the thick perimeter walls. The living room opens onto a small balcony with built-in wooden stools, providing an idyllic view of both the village and the Ionian Sea.

The apartments aim to evoke the essence of the ultimate Dhërmi experience. From the thick stone walls with windows you can sit in, to the breathtaking views of both the sea and the old village, visible from nearly every room, every detail has been carefully considered. You can hear the buzz of nearby squares during the summer, the church bells or the gentle sounds of the wind or rain. The traditional authenticity of the apartments is further enhanced through collaboration with local Albanian workers & craftsmen, who contributed not only to the construction but also to the furnishing of the space. Handwoven carpets, local photography, attentively selected Albanian books and handcrafted ceramic pieces for the kitchen all add a unique, culturally rich touch to the home.