Ria Xenou on Elastic Architects' Instinct-Driven Design
In an interview, Ria Xenou, the co-founder and CEO of Elastic Architects, shares insights into the philosophy and growth of her firm. With locations in Athens, Toronto, and London, Elastic Architects has undertaken projects for Aman Resorts and is presently engaged in developing Nammos Maldives. Inspired by her husband, Alexandros Xenos, Xenou transitioned from civil engineering to architecture. She reflects on her correspondence with hotelier Adrian Zecha, which led to a significant opportunity to design villas at Aman Sveti Stefan in Montenegro, where she developed a deep appreciation for nature and local architectural styles. Elastic Architects, which now employs over 100 individuals, paused new projects three years ago for reflection, emphasizing a commitment to nature and the modern interpretation of traditional architecture across all offices.
Key facts
- Ria Xenou is co-founder and CEO of Elastic Architects.
- Elastic Architects has studios in Athens, Toronto, and London.
- The studio has designed Aman Resort properties and hotels in Miami Beach, Dubai, and London.
- Xenou initially studied civil engineering before switching to architecture.
- She sent many emails to hotelier Adrian Zecha, who eventually gave her a ten-day challenge to design three villas at Aman Sveti Stefan.
- During the Aman project, the team studied Villa Miločer's original drawings.
- Elastic Architects grew from a small practice to over 100 people.
- The studio paused new work three years ago to reassess its organization.
- Nammos Maldives is Elastic's most ambitious project, involving seven private islands.
- Xenou emphasizes proportion, material, and light in her design process.
Entities
Artists
- Ria Xenou
- Alexandros Xenos
- Enrique Mangalingdan
- Dimos Georgiou
Institutions
- Elastic Architects
- Aman Resorts
- Aman Sveti Stefan
- Nammos Maldives
Locations
- Athens
- Toronto
- London
- Miami Beach
- Dubai
- Montenegro
- Maldives