DHERMI, ALBANIA
2020
"Modern minimalism meets Mediterranean stone in this tiered, sunlit design."
The architecture of Le Rêve adopts a Mediterranean Modernism concept, seeking to blend clean, minimalist volumes with the rustic textures of the local coastal environment. The design is structured around a series of stacked, modular units, each providing private outdoor space—a clear response to the hotel's function as a luxury boutique retreat. The vertical articulation of the façade creates depth and rhythm, reminiscent of the traditional terraced structures often found in the Albanian Riviera.
The context is the dramatic hillside and beach area of Dhërmi, where the buildings are carefully positioned (or rendered) to maximize views of the Ionian Sea and the surrounding natural landscape. The use of cascading terraces and balconies establishes a strong visual connection between the interiors and the expansive outdoor setting.
The architectural expression is defined by a striking contrast in its material palette:
Natural Stone: Large sections of the load-bearing or primary walls are clad in rugged, rough-cut local stone (evident in both images), anchoring the structure to the rocky terrain and evoking the ancient building traditions of the region.
Smooth Planes: This texture is sharply contrasted with crisp, white or light-colored smooth stucco/plaster walls, which define the modern, rectilinear volumes and enhance the sense of light and space.
Timber and Glass: Warm-toned timber elements (louvers, pergolas, and deck finishes) are used extensively for shading and horizontal definition, softening the stone. Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors and transparent glass balcony railings maximize daylight and ensure uninterrupted panoramic views.