Architect Iliana Kerestetzi is constructing partially buried, earth-sheltered houses on the Greek island of Serifos to integrate buildings with the natural landscape.

This approach to architecture matters as designers seek sustainable alternatives to traditional construction. By utilizing the earth's natural thermal properties, these structures reduce the environmental footprint and energy requirements of residential living.

Kerestetzi's work in the Cyclades is featured alongside other underground projects in Helsinki, Finland, and various sites in Switzerland. These examples demonstrate a global shift toward subterranean design, which minimizes visual impact on the environment and leverages soil for insulation.

In Switzerland, the work of architect Peter Vetsch is highlighted as another example of this movement. Vetsch focuses on the intersection of structural engineering and landscape integration, a method that allows buildings to blend seamlessly into the terrain.

The documentary showcasing these projects is available for viewing until Sept. 11, 2026 [1]. The footage provides a detailed look at how earth-sheltering can be applied across diverse climates, from the arid environment of Serifos to the colder regions of Northern Europe.

These projects emphasize the use of the earth as a primary building material. By burying portions of the structure, architects can create spaces that remain stable in temperature throughout the year without relying heavily on mechanical heating or cooling systems.

“Architect Iliana Kerestetzi is constructing partially buried, earth-sheltered houses on the Greek island of Serifos.”

The shift toward earth-sheltered architecture represents a move away from the 'monolithic' building style toward biomimicry and landscape integration. By utilizing the thermal mass of the earth, these designs address the urgent need for energy-efficient housing in the face of climate volatility, offering a blueprint for reducing the carbon footprint of the global construction industry.