Home designs

In Cyprus one will find a wide variety of properties bearing architectural features which are varied. These are traditional village style characteristics, English style ranging from say the Swiss Alps to Colonial Style English architecture or neoclassic buildings incorporating Ionian Columns in the ancient Greek Style.

Modern standards are applied concerning electricity and water supply, sewage disposal, telephone and satellite connections, central heating and air conditioning.

Since early days the form of housing styles has changed with the influences of the various cultures that were introduced by their settlement and occupation in Cyprus. The most important of which was the Greek Classical era with the decorated temples. The new architecture consisted of austere planning arrangement using carved local limestone masterfully placed in symmetrical proportions and with the addiction for the first time of interval sanitary spaces such as lavatories and bathrooms.

Later on we find the Byzantine influence with the doomed Basilicas and in the middle Ages the Genoas and Venetians with their Gothic Style and heavy fortifications again using local limestone and sand stone.

Finally a more oriental influence arrived with the occupation of the island by the Ottoman Empire with the various examples of mosques.

Today we find well-designed and ergonomically homes for a modern family. There is a breath of fresh air of freedom in the styling of houses but also strictly governed by planning laws controlling the expansion of residential areas and restricting commercial and other form of developments.

Foundations and superstructures adhere to strict revised anti-earthquake regulations. For walls either high temperature fire earth bricks and/or imported insulating and lightweight Ytong blocks are used.
For floors there is a wide variety of materials available such as granite, marble, porcelanato, terra cottas, mosaics, ceramic tiles, wood floors laminate etc. Carpentry works are done in pure wood of various types such as beech, pine, oak and maple and in synthetics such as laminates and MDF. Kitchen and bedroom cupboards are all factory produced locally or imported in kit form from Europe in a variety of designs.

Important factors in the construction of homes in Cyprus are the electromechanical instillation such as electrical works to the electricity authority's rules and plumbing works executed in high pressure plastic or copper pipes for fresh water supplies.

Various other considerations are solar water heating systems, roof combination systems such as flat roofs, sanitary ware generally imported from Europe.

We will endeavour, drawing from our experiences, to bring to you the latest designs and know how relating to the construction industry in Cyprus.

Building your dream home?

Great ideals to consider...

A home can offer years of enjoyment to you and your family if done properly - quite often at less costs and with no need for major updating.

Before you get started it is vital you spend sufficient time researching and choosing the precise details of your dream home both internal and external. The exterior details are just as important if not the most important aesthetic and value-influencing aspects of the home. In most cases the exterior details are often overlooked. Design each room individually; decide on the correct colour, kitchen appliances, lighting, colour schemes etc.

The exterior of a home is the picture it presents to the world, defines character of the home and reflects the image desired by its owners.

To maximize your home's appeal, remember these important ideals:

There is no doubt that often there is a key reason why some homes appear more serene than others are. More than likely, the setting incorporates designs and materials embracing the natural environment, thus creating an outward appearance that is a harmonious blend of architecture and nature. This concept is especially important when considering what material to use for your home's exterior.

Exterior accent details are the differentiating touches on a home of distinction. They really set the home apart. Giving your home that elegant appeal of hand crafted beauty with decorative accents like: shutters, gables, cedar soffits or dentil moldings, these upgrades all provide an affordable, yet beautiful complement to your home's design and individuality. Exterior decorative accents offer homeowners a choice in their home's appearance so they feel like their home is not only unique to them on the inside, but on the outside as well. They customize the home so when you drive thorough the community the house doesn't look like everyone else's on the block.

Choose materials that are known for their ability to stand up to the elements. Specifically, you need to make sure a high-quality weather barrier to help block moisture and air from entering the home. There are a number of excellent weather resistant barriers on the market designed to provide superior water drainage, combat moisture and help prevent air infiltration - creating a more comfortable, energy-efficient home.

Homes of distinction increasingly have a similar attribute in common -they utilize materials that are environmentally responsible and sustainable. Whether interior features like hardwood flooring or exterior elements such as siding or stone, today's dream homes are being constructed with long-term consideration of the environment in mind.

So when moving forward with renovations surrounding your home's exterior to blend architecture and nature, taking the time to do some thoughtful planning and creative thinking will pay off in a big way.