Bronze Hospitality, Recreation, Travel and Tourism Design · 2026
Oreno Mountain Retreat Hospitality Project
by Giannis Efthymiadis - G2Lab
- A' Design Award 2026 Bronze Winner in Hospitality, Recreation, Travel and Tourism Design
- Awarded April 15, 2026
- CLIENT: Oreno Retreat
- Estimated Number of Design Views: 7,056
- Verification code 9357783B33 · Verify this award
About Oreno Mountain Retreat Hospitality Project
Oreno Mountain Retreat is a hotel located in Tsepelovo, Zagori. The building continues the surrounding landscape by reinterpreting local principles of proportion, material, and spatial hierarchy. Load bearing stone walls and timber roof systems apply traditional techniques to contemporary standards. High thermal mass improves energy efficiency, while controlled openings guide daylight and ventilation. Integration into the slope reduces excavation. The design creates a quiet, refined atmosphere rooted in local memory and craft.
G2 LAB's Oreno Mountain Retreat Hospitality Project occupies a distinctive position within contemporary hospitality architecture, engaging the longstanding dialogue between vernacular building traditions and modern design sensibilities while addressing the enduring human desire for sanctuary spaces that harmonize cultural intervention with natural setting. The architectural achievement demonstrates sophisticated formal resolution in its massing strategy, where the substantial two-story stone volume achieves visual groundedness appropriate to its mountainous context while maintaining welcoming approachability through carefully calibrated proportions, the generous glazing ratio, and the rhythmic articulation of the facade that prevents monolithic severity. The stone masonry construction, executed in warm ochre and sienna tones with meticulous horizontal coursing, evidences both technical mastery of traditional building methods and thoughtful material selection that establishes chromatic and textural dialogue with the surrounding landscape's geological character. Compositionally, the work achieves refined balance between symmetry and variation, the near-bilateral organization anchored by the central entrance providing psychological stability and formal clarity while asymmetrical window groupings and the varied terrace levels introduce visual interest and spatial complexity. The chromatic accomplishment lies particularly in the sophisticated orchestration of warm-cool color temperature contrast, where the amber interior illumination at dusk creates luminous focal points that activate the stone mass and establish emotional warmth against the serene lavender-gray atmospheric envelope of the mountain twilight, this complementary relationship between interior incandescence and exterior cool tonality achieving both aesthetic beauty and symbolic resonance regarding shelter's fundamental meaning. The generous fenestration strategy demonstrates understanding of prospect-refuge theory, the expansive glazing offering visual access to the dramatic mountain panorama while the substantial stone construction and carefully scaled openings maintain the psychological security of enclosure, this balance between outlook and protection central to restorative hospitality environments. The terraced exterior organization creates graceful transition between architectural intervention and natural topography, the stone platforms descending in measured increments that mediate the threshold between built environment and landscape while providing intimate outdoor gathering spaces furnished for contemplative relaxation. The work appears to reference regional mountain building traditions, perhaps evoking Mediterranean stone construction heritage while translating vernacular wisdom into contemporary hospitality typology that serves the modern traveler's need for both comfort and authentic material experience. The twilight capture moment proves significant, the civil twilight period when interior lighting becomes visible yet natural illumination remains sufficient creating ideal conditions to appreciate the architectural orchestration of transparency and mass, warmth and coolness, culture and nature. Thematically, the project invites consideration of hospitality's essential nature as the architectural expression of welcome, the creation of threshold spaces that mediate between journey and arrival, between exposure and shelter, and between the sublime scale of natural landscape and the intimate scale of human habitation, suggesting that thoughtful design can honor both vernacular building wisdom and contemporary experiential aspirations while creating environments that restore and renew the mountain visitor.
Press Kit
- Unique Properties
- This design explores architecture as an extension of place rather than an imposed object. Oreno continues the Zagori landscape by reinterpreting local principles of proportion, material, and spatial hierarchy. Its strength lies in balancing memory with contemporary living, solidity with openness. Through restraint, material continuity, and controlled light, it creates a quiet, refined atmosphere rooted in authenticity.
- Dimensions & Packaging
- Constructed with load bearing stone walls and timber roof systems, the building employs traditional techniques adapted to contemporary standards. High thermal mass improves energy efficiency, while controlled openings optimize daylight and ventilation. The integration into the slope minimizes excavation and enhances environmental performance, supported by passive design strategies.
- Tags
- stone, wood, heritage, environment, local, fireplace, wellness, interior
- Production Technology
- The design was developed through analysis of Zagori architectural principles proportion, material logic, and spatial hierarchy, rather than formal imitation. Local stone and timber systems informed both structure and envelope. Iterative modeling and section studies ensured integration with the terrain, while light and material continuity were refined to create a cohesive, atmospheric spatial experience.
- Design Challenge
- The main challenge was integrating Zagori historical and social context with modern hospitality standards. Internally, respecting local architectural memory and community traditions guided design decisions. Externally, strict heritage regulations, limited construction technologies, and site constraints demanded careful material selection, precise geometry, and iterative modeling to achieve a balance between authenticity, comfort, and environmental integration.
- Project Duration
- The project started in September 2023 in Tsepelovo, Zagori and finished in Janaury 2026
- Inspiration
- The inspiration for Oreno emerges from the quiet continuity of life in Zagori. It draws from the memory of people and their rhythms. Gatherings in village squares, the echo of music across the mountains, the slow passage of seasons. Tradition is not treated as a fixed image, but as a living presence, embedded in craft, in material, in proportion. Stone and earth become both structure and story, grounding the hotel in its place, while the spirit of local life shapes spaces that feel familiar, warm, and enduring.
- Image Credits
- Photographer Dimitris Spyrou
Colors of Oreno Mountain Retreat Hospitality Project
Grand Interview about Oreno Mountain Retreat Hospitality Project
For us, tradition is not a fixed image of the past but a living architectural language. In Zagorochoria, historic buildings are characterized by strong volumes and clear proportions. While the hotel's program required multiple functions, we avoided fragmenting the project into separate buildings. Instead, we designed a unified structure articulated into two distinct volumes that organize the ground-floor functions: reception and spa on one side, restaurant and kitchen on the other. These volumes are connected by a large stone arch, a defining element inspired by local architectural heritage.The balance between tradition and contemporary hospitality is also expressed through the openings. While the suites follow the traditional proportions of Zagori architecture, the shared spaces required larger openings to maximize daylight and frame the mountain landscape. To preserve the building's local identity, these openings are divided with traditional wooden mullions, maintaining the rhythm and character of the region's architecture while meeting contemporary expectations of comfort and experience.
Zagorochoria is a unique region recently recognized by UNESCO for both its extraordinary natural landscape and its remarkable stone-built settlements. These villages are defined by a strong architectural identity, where stone architecture and the surrounding environment exist in complete harmony. Visitors who travel to Zagorochoria do not simply seek accommodation; they seek an authentic experience deeply connected to the spirit of the place.We believe this reflects a broader shift within the hospitality industry. Travelers increasingly value destinations that offer genuine local character rather than generic luxury. They are looking for places where architecture, culture, history, and landscape form a coherent experience.At Oreno Mountain Retreat, our goal was to create a building that feels naturally rooted in its setting, embracing the architectural language and materials of the region. This contextual depth transforms the guest experience, creating a stronger emotional connection with the destination. The result is not only a memorable stay, but a deeper understanding and appreciation of the place itself.
The environmental constraints of the site were not obstacles but valuable design parameters that helped shape a stronger architectural solution. From the beginning, our objective was to minimize excavation and integrate the building naturally into the existing terrain. The organization of the ground floor was carefully planned so that all primary shared spaces face the landscape, allowing them to benefit from natural light and views. Areas with limited access to daylight were allocated to service and support functions, reducing the need for unnecessary openings and interventions.Local regulations and the architectural character of Zagorochoria encouraged a unified building volume rather than a fragmented composition. Initially, this presented a challenge, as the hospitality program required distinct functions. The solution emerged through the introduction of the central stone arch, which visually divides the building into two interconnected volumes while maintaining a single architectural entity. This approach significantly reduced the impact on the landscape compared to multiple separate structures and ultimately led to a more coherent and contextually sensitive design.
From the earliest discussions with our clients, we established a clear design principle: Oreno Mountain Retreat should fully respect the architectural heritage of Zagorochoria while offering a contemporary hospitality experience. Our goal was to create a building that feels as if it has always belonged to the place, following the local architectural language, materials, and proportions with absolute respect.At the same time, we wanted to avoid a common approach found in many traditional mountain hotels, where the heavy character of the exterior is replicated indoors. Instead, we used the same local stone both outside and inside the building, making it the element that connects architecture, landscape, and interior experience. Stone appears throughout the suites and shared spaces, creating a continuous dialogue between exterior and interior.To balance authenticity with contemporary comfort, we paired these traditional materials with clean lines, carefully crafted wooden elements, and a restrained design language. The result is a warm and welcoming atmosphere that remains deeply rooted in local tradition while providing the refinement and comfort expected from a contemporary hospitality environment.
One of the most defining aspects of designing in Zagorochoria is that every architectural decision must be fully resolved before construction begins. The region is governed by strict heritage regulations, and projects are reviewed by architectural committees that evaluate everything from geometry and proportions to materials and detailing. As a result, the design process demanded a high level of precision from the earliest stages, leaving little room for improvisation during construction.The moment that ultimately strengthened the project was our decision to visually articulate the facade without fragmenting the building volume. While local architecture traditionally favors monolithic forms, we sought to introduce a clearer distinction between the building’s functions. The solution emerged through the central stone arch, which connects two visually distinct parts while preserving a single architectural entity. This gesture allowed us to enrich the composition without compromising the coherence required by local regulations, resulting in a more balanced and architecturally expressive project.
Although the name G2Lab originates from the initials of its founders, Giannis and George, the word “Lab” has always been the most important part of our identity. From the beginning, our vision was to create a laboratory of ideas, perspectives, and experiences rather than a studio centered around individual names. Over the past fifteen years, this philosophy has evolved into a multidisciplinary team where different personalities, skills, and design sensibilities contribute to a shared architectural vision.The Oreno Mountain Retreat project benefited greatly from this collaborative approach. The project required attention at every scale, from the overall architectural composition and landscape integration to the smallest interior details. Some team members focused more on architecture and spatial organization, others on interiors, materials, and guest experience. What united these contributions was a common design philosophy. This collective process is reflected throughout the project, where every space, detail, and material decision contributes to a coherent and carefully crafted hospitality experience.
Receiving the Bronze A’ Design Award is one of the most important recognitions in our studio’s history and a significant validation of our design philosophy. What makes this distinction particularly meaningful is that Oreno Mountain Retreat is not a project that seeks attention through iconic or futuristic forms. Instead, it demonstrates that architecture rooted in local heritage, cultural identity, and respect for place can be equally relevant and valuable in contemporary design.The project reflects our belief that preserving architectural traditions does not mean compromising modern comfort or hospitality standards. On the contrary, it proves that contemporary experiences can be created within an architectural language that respects history, local materials, and regional character.We believe it is extremely important that internationally recognized awards highlight projects of this nature. Such visibility encourages clients, designers, and developers to appreciate the value of context-sensitive architecture and helps reinforce the idea that preserving local identity is not a limitation, but an opportunity to create meaningful and enduring places.
For our studio, every project is unique and every place has its own story to tell. We do not believe in applying a predefined architectural language regardless of context. Instead, our design process always begins with understanding the character of a place—whether it is located in a city, on an island, by the sea, or in the mountains.The most important lesson from Oreno Mountain Retreat is not a specific formal solution, but the value of carefully reading the site and allowing architecture to emerge from its cultural, environmental, and spatial qualities. Principles such as restraint, material continuity, and respect for local identity are not tied to a particular architectural style; they are tools that help us create meaningful and authentic places.As G2Lab continues to evolve, these principles will remain central to our work. However, their expression will always be shaped by the unique conditions of each project, ensuring that every design develops its own identity while remaining deeply connected to its context.
The moment when this philosophy becomes most tangible is the arrival sequence. Guests enter through a traditional stone gateway and follow a narrow stone pathway framed by the stone walls of the landscape design. This gradual approach introduces the architectural language of Zagorochoria before they even enter the building. The experience culminates at the central stone arch, a defining threshold that connects exterior and interior space.Once inside, visitors continue to encounter the same materials—stone and wood—that shaped their journey outdoors. The transition leads naturally toward large openings that frame the surrounding mountains and landscape, creating a constant dialogue between architecture and nature. A similar experience unfolds in the spa, where stone surfaces, natural textures, and carefully positioned openings maintain visual contact with the environment.These moments were intentionally designed to blur the boundary between inside and outside, allowing the building to feel less like an object placed in the landscape and more like a natural extension of it.
One of the most important lessons we learned from Oreno Mountain Retreat is that designing within a culturally significant landscape requires understanding the reasons behind its architectural rules rather than simply following them. Before drawing any line, a designer must study the history, climate, construction methods, and way of life that shaped a place over time.Today, construction technology often seeks to eliminate every visible structural element, creating increasingly large openings and seamless glass surfaces. In Zagorochoria, however, traditional architecture is defined by restraint, proportion, and relatively small openings. At first, such limitations may seem restrictive, especially to young designers who imagine uninterrupted views of the landscape. Yet the real challenge is to transform these apparent constraints into meaningful architectural qualities.Oreno taught us that serving a place is different from merely referencing it. Referencing a place means borrowing its visual elements; serving a place means understanding why those elements exist and allowing them to shape the experience of the building. Through this approach, architecture becomes not an object imposed on its surroundings, but an authentic continuation of them.