In addition to sophisticated design and idyllic surroundings, this family-friendly hotel offers a variety of activities for both adults and children.
"Dappled lights, timber furniture and carpentry soften the brutalist architecture shell."
The Greek concept of “parea” means the celebration of people coming together and sharing good moments together. Opened in May 2019 and located on the coast of Crete (the largest of the Greek Islands), Domes Zeen Chania naturally pays tribute to this concept. Surrounded by vegetation, the hotel features views of the Mediterranean Sea and 106 rooms, which are nestled in villas clad in concrete and timber. The peaceful boutique hotel project is a colaborative work of architectural firm K-studio, interior design studio Lambs and Lions, and stylist Annabell Kutucu.
“The design approach was to use modernist-inspired architecture and to create a ‘village’ layout”, the K-studio team says.
Inside, the spaces combine mid-century references and sustainable design. They are filled with natural light thanks to the sliding glass doors that create a permanent connexion between interior and exterior. The colour palette is dominated by beige and brown, and the accessories are rich in texture. Materials such as linen and rattan lend warmth to every nook where pure lines prevail. Each room features its own terrace; an invitations to admire the beautiful landscape; some rooms also boast a pool (private or shared).
“The resort is a choreographed interplay of light, shadow and texture”, says Michael Schickinger, founder and creative director at Lambs and Lions. “The smooth concrete forms gradually separate and transform into more brutalist structures that seem to emerge, almost mythically, from the sand.”
Designed for contemporary families, Domes Zeen Chania was developed in collaboration with experts in education and family travel, as well as with a group of 25 children.
Several areas were designed for kids to learn and explore in a natural way through various activities, including cooking classes and painting workshops. In the evening, children can sleep in a tepee while their parents enjoy free time at the tropical beach club.
One of the main objectives of Domes Zeen Chania is to celebrate the Cretan traditions, as evident in the restaurant next to the main pool. Open from breakfast to dinner, the restaurant offers the opportunity to savour delicious and healthy local cuisines.
The hotel’s overall atmosphere is warm and laid-back. And the icing on the cake? The wellness programme organised at the hotel’s main pavilion, which include yoga sessions and body treatments that pamper and rejuvenate guests with products made with natural ingredients.
With its unique blend of brutalist architecture, sleek interior design and Mediterranean ambience, Domes Zeen Chania is the perfect destination to spend a memorable vacation.
Good to know
The main pavilion blurs the boundary between the indoors and outdoors, taking full advantage of the breathtaking panorama.
The view interior design is a tribute to mid-century movement that is articulated with sustainable materials.
Shadows of swaying trees fall on timber, concrete and the still surface of the private pool - a very picture of tranquility.
