vibrant blue facade brings new life to the monk retreat on leros island, greece

a+ architects Create a Minimalist Retreat in Leros

In the heart of the Aegean, on the island of Leros, Greece, The Monk by a+ architects emerges as a sanctuary that redefines the meaning of hospitality through architectural simplicity and an atmosphere of serenity. The residence, carefully revived with respect for local tradition, blends elements of island modernism with clean, minimalist lines.

The interiors follow a restrained aesthetic, where white light, natural textures, and linen fabrics highlight the essence of the place: authenticity, calmness, and timelessness. The choice of materials, stone, wood, linen, and handcrafted objects, serves as a bridge between the island’s environment and a universal language of contemporary design. The space conveys a sense of ‘monastic’ simplicity, translated into a form of luxury that is rooted in experience rather than display.

all images by Vice Versa Photography

The Monk Blends Island Tradition with Contemporary Design

The architecture of The Monk is not just a shelter; it is a narrative. A story of light shifting through the day, of tactile sensations unfolding in linen, of silence embracing the guest. A house that reflects the dialogue between the island’s history and today’s quest for depth and essence. The design team at a+ architects considers The Monk as not a hotel, but a living organism of hospitality, an experience shaped by space and detail, ultimately leaving guests with the feeling of having stayed in a house with a soul.

a distinct bright blue color defines the exterior

The Monk by a+ architects stands on the island of Leros

island modernism is blended with minimalist lines

linen fabrics emphasize authenticity and timelessness

stone, wood, and linen connect design to landscape

handcrafted objects anchor the space in tradition

monastic simplicity redefined as experiential luxury

a dialogue between island history and contemporary design

a house with the essence of soul and memory

project info:

name: The Monk Leros
architects: a+ architects | @alta_plus_architects

lead architect: Ioannis Zacharakis

location: Leros, Greece

photographer: Vice Versa Photography | @viceversa.gr