Activity - Stone House

It looks easy and effortless, believe me it is the oposite. Each stone is hand chiseled and carefully placed not exposing a great deal of pointing. A fine Art. 

One of the experts chopping away in mid-day sun. Last day of September and the temperature is still very high. Everyday on my visits they ask if I am going for a swim. Being close to the sea, hearing waves and gurgling water bashing against rocks must make you wont to jump into this wonderful clear and refreshing sea. 

Side view

Half front view

Back view

The beginning of the main house. Digging should finish early this week. Excavating large rocks, useful for stone walls.  

These two impressive rocks located on the front right corner of the main house make a natural divide, securing privacy between the main and stone house. The overhanging rock  an ideal place for a backgammon table. Cool and shaded. Imagine steps going up from the left side of the pyramid shaped figure to a covered outdoor sitting area. The outdoor sitting, cooking and eating area I assume is going to be the heart of Itha108.  

     

Stone House under Construction

Stone House containing indoor Kitchen and Dining

Seeing the beginning of each stone laid is exciting. The back of the house and it's surrounding supporting dry stone walls are first before sides and front walls are covered. The stone is from the land, each piece selected, cut into shape and placed.  

  

View from the terrace in front of the stone house where breakfast is served enjoying the morning sun. 

A natural rock is screening the stone house with the main house. This area is going to be covered and used for lunch as it has an outdoor kitchen and living area.

Standing mids the outdoor living area pointing where the main house with bedrooms, library, indoor yoga shala and out door living/dining terrace is going to be.  

Walking towards one of the many beaches in walking distance away, looking back and pleased about how secret and hidden Itha108 is going to be. 

Spoiled by choice, water, sun and remoteness. 

Finally the building work has started

The New Road

The compliments received by the locals is overwhelming. The road towards the retreat is new, but some people from the nearby hamlet Agios Ioannis are stunned and say "hasn't it been a road all along?" Big thanks to my architect brother in finding the right spot.  

The stone wall supporting the road is new, blending in well

It feels and looks as if it has been there for centuries. 

New road leading towards the houses

View from the main road leading to the hamlet Agios Ioannis

Yoga 2012 on Ithaca

From June 11 all through 2012, immerse yourself in yoga asanas, pranayama and philosophy in sunny Lahos, North Ithaca. Transform your practice through in-depth, tailored lessons with weekly themes. Join Ithaca’s yoga community classes or private lessons with Ingrid Gottschalk, aka Yogu, at a peaceful yoga shala. Your summer treat.