Kalesma · Mykonos, Greece

Name: K-Studio · Studio Bonarchi
Project: Kalesma
Photographer: Vagelis Paterakis · Yiorgos Kordakis
Words: Steph Wade

With its sleek and minimalist interiors and open-air concept, the new 25-suite and two-villa luxury hotel ‘Kalesma’ is a dream for design-loving travelers. Inspired by the architecture of the island, the hotel was designed by K-Studio in collaboration with Studio Bonarchi; with their joint effort, the boutique resort presents a contemporary approach to Cycladic design.

All across Greece’s cosmopolitan island of Mykonos, traditional white cubic houses with flat roofs and blue-painted doors and windows can be seen dotted along the waterfront, or peeking out from hilly cliff edges. With the privately-owned Kalesma, the aim was to create a modern place for respite that pays tribute to this classic Mykonian architectural style, but with a more neutral color palette of earthy browns, grays, and taupes. K-Studio was responsible for the architecture and masterplanning, while Studio Bonarchi oversaw the interior design, including the furniture, fixtures, and equipment.

The five-star hotel features sculptural white-washed walls and timber pergolas, moving away from the typical blue-painted windows and doors and replacing them with slim black frames. Other furnishings include sandblasted stone floors, sandy-colored linens, and bold statement pieces such as a Rick Owens sofa. Each room comes with its own private heated pool, a private terrace with an outdoor shower, freestanding bathtubs, and unobstructed sea views of both the sunrise and sunset.

Image © Yiorgos Kordakis

Kalesma is the only hotel in Mykonos where each room comes with its own private heated pool. The name, which means ‘inviting’ in Greek, speaks to its sun-drenched, sophisticated charm, which is further emphasized through its offering of wellness treatments, acclaimed restaurant, and private yacht charters. These majestic villas encapsulate the more grandeur side of the island, offering a one-of-a-kind experience for discerning holiday goers.