Ekavi Hotel is located in Sfakaki, Rethymno, approximately 15 minutes from the city of Rethymno, in direct proximity to the VOAK and right on the seafront. Its privileged location was a key element of the design from the very beginning, while at the same time the project presented significant construction challenges, as the existing hotel unit had to be upgraded and transformed in order to meet the modern standards of a four-star hotel, after several years of operation in a particularly demanding coastal environment.

The entire hotel was redesigned with the aim of creating a contemporary and unified architectural identity. The number of rooms increased from 49 to 59, while the swimming pool, pool bar and all outdoor areas were radically redesigned. At the same time, balcony projections were extended in 12 of the older rooms, allowing all guests to have access to an outdoor space.

The upgrade was not limited to the aesthetic image of the hotel. The design was reconsidered as a whole, also on a functional level, with significant interventions that improve accessibility, comfort and the daily experience of guests, with particular care for people with disabilities and elderly visitors.

From a construction perspective, metal reinforcements were carried out on the load-bearing structure, while the building acquired significantly improved energy performance. The new waterproofing and thermal insulation of the roof, combined with the thermal insulation of all facades, were key interventions for the protection of the structure and the overall energy upgrade of the hotel unit.

In just five and a half months, the hotel underwent a complete renovation, covering almost all of its individual elements: from structure and energy performance to functionality, aesthetics and the overall guest experience.

The rooms were designed with a contemporary and ergonomic approach, with particular emphasis on detail, material quality and everyday functionality. The selected materials and construction details reflect the standards of a higher hotel category, creating modern, comfortable and discreetly luxurious spaces.

Fluted glass on the glass doors, built-in washbasin surfaces with tile cladding, concealed lighting and ergonomically organized spaces compose the new identity of the rooms, where aesthetics are harmoniously combined with practicality.

The swimming pool area is the main highlight of the hotel. Its new layout creates a direct connection with the seascape, making full use of the hotel’s privileged seafront location.

A central feature of the space is the built-in daybeds, strategically positioned with uninterrupted views towards the sea. Their architectural integration creates an environment of relaxation and comfort, where the pool, the sea and the horizon come together to shape the guest experience.

The final result is a complete transformation: an existing hotel has been converted into a modern, functional and energy-upgraded destination, with a new architectural identity and a clear focus on the relationship between the guest, the Cretan landscape and the sea.