Architecture
Carved-out caves = Acro Suites
This private suite is one of 49 on property.
Image courtesy of: Amazing Architecture
In April of this year, ACRO Suites opened in Crete as the large island’s newest luxury wellness hotel. The hotel sits atop a jagged shoreline with views that stretch across the Aegean Sea. The property’s unique architecture is based upon an organic, contemporary design that is perfectly in tune with its natural surroundings. Aptly named, acro means “on the edge” which is exactly where this little piece of paradise resides!
The view from above provides an appreciation for the unparalleled design.
Image courtesy of: Amazing Architecture
The resort was founded by sisters Danae and Konstantina Orfanake; it was constructed in conjunction with the sisters’ family as a place where someone can completely “let go.” The central idea behind the architecture is “the beauty of simplicity.” The property’s design was expertly crafted with special attention paid to aesthetic elements. Courtesy of Design Boom, “the hotel’s owners sought out the best local Greek designers and craftsmen to collaborate with across the property for an authentic Cretan feel.”
In addition to the aesthetics, sustainability was very important. Whenever applicable, organic building materials were used; for example, the Asana Yoga Shana was constructed from bamboo. In addition, ACRO Suites only uses solar energy, has dissolvable packaging, and the restaurant serves Greek dishes that lean heavily on organic and vegetarian dishes.
A view inside one of the Cave Suites.
Image courtesy of: ACRO Suites
The entire property is rich in texture and brims with “nature motifs, from marble details, to stones and wood, and earthy tones.” Each of the 49 suites and villas is perched on the top of the cliffs which presents amazing views of the blue sea below. In addition, each unit is equipped with its own saltwater private pool.
The Cave Suites occupy caverns within the rocky cliffs that were carved out by Cretan sculptors. Inside, visitors are “enveloped by heavy, textured stone which suggests a naturally-eroded feature of the landscape.” The expansive ocean views are beautifully framed by the cave’s jagged mouth.
Inside the Bath House…
Image courtesy of: Amazing Architecture
The modern, super-sleek design has all the feels… a palette of calming, soft hues and earthy tones are combined to elicit a sense of tranquility. The rough marble details, natural stones, and unrefined wood complements the look that interior designer Manos Kipritidis worked hard to accomplish.
All the communal areas exude a feeling of serenity and simplicity; especially, the magical hammack-sized Byzantine spa bath in the hotel’s Bath House. The Bath House was inspired by the ancient notion of hammams (thermal spas that use steam) which is to clean and rejuvenate the body so that the soul is purified. The space’s architecture is meant to encourage a positive and healing flow of energy.
Lucky tree indeed!
Image courtesy of: ACRO Suites
Since opening in April, the resort has won several prestigious awards. Clearly with such a location, it is not hard for  something to look amazing. However ACRO Suites goes beyond that… the special property was clearly designed with the spirit of wellness in mind. Mission accomplished!
