restored kaimakli residence in cyprus develops around two internal courtyards

Anastasiou Misseri restores and extends listed building in Nicosia

Anastasiou Misseri studio’s Kaimakli Residence project sees the restoration and extension of an abandoned listed building in Nicosia, Cyprus. Located in the area of Kaimakli, at the end of a row of single-story terraces that maintain large Mediterranean gardens at the rear of their plots, the structure transforms into a modern residence for the new owners.

The listed building underwent a comprehensive restoration, including structural repairs, stone restoration, and plaster replacement using traditional techniques, along with the complete renewal of the roof and wooden beams. The restoration remained faithful to the original design, with timber window frames reconstructed and handmade cement tiles replaced.

all images by James Retief

Kaimakli Residence harmonizes historic and modern elements

The main entrance room was repurposed as a dining space, while the adjacent rooms were converted into a living room and study. An extension at the rear accommodates a spacious kitchen, utility room, and guest bathroom on the ground floor, with two bedrooms and a bathroom on the first floor. A clear distinction between old and new was maintained in both form and materiality, with a corridor bridging the two volumes and creating two internal courtyards. Constructed with a steel frame, the extension features exposed beams that enhance the sense of space.

To create harmony between the historic structure and the addition, the design team integrated colors from the original building into the extension’s finishes, including terrazzo flooring, staircase details, bathroom features, and kitchen design. Large openings across four functional facades connect indoor and outdoor spaces, providing unobstructed views from the main entrance to the back garden. The design enhances spatial transitions, incorporating natural light and the surrounding landscape as integral elements of the home.

the Kaimakli Residence restores and extends a listed building in Nicosia, Cyprus

the residence reinterprets traditional Cypriot architecture through a modern lens

located at the end of a row of historic terraces, the residence integrates old and new

a corridor links the old structure with the new, creating two internal courtyards

large openings connect indoor and outdoor spaces, integrating light and landscape

the restoration respects the original structure while introducing contemporary materials

open courtyards enhance natural ventilation and spatial fluidity

the careful restoration ensures longevity while preserving historic integrity

project info:

name: Kaimakli Residence
architect: Anastasiou Misseri | @anastasiou.misseri

structural engineer: Michael Pittas

consulting structural engineers M&E engineer: Louis Vakanas MEP Consulting Engineers

area: 180 sqm

location: Kaimakli, Nicosia, Cyprus

photographer: James Retief | @james_retief

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edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom