Don’t let the modest exterior of The Chania Design House fool you. Behind that neat, unassuming front door lies a distinctly contemporary living space quite unlike many of the private rentals on Crete. Dare one even say… arty? One dares.
Originally a Turkish house built in the early 20th century, this two-bedroom residence has been completely renovated by charismatic owner Nikos (of Ammos Hotel fame) to welcome those who like their accommodation funky, modern and a bit quirky. It’s divided into two floors and has a lovely outside terrace on the upper floor, including a sunny wall-hung garden. But it’s the design that startles. The house is an open-plan series of contrasts where stone meets concrete, exposed brickwork, cement, mortar and wood. The postmodern aesthetic runs throughout, from the carefully curated artworks (local artist Antonis Houdalakis helped with the renovation) to the achingly stylish furniture and objets. Clean lines abound, bursts of colour pop; there’s always something to catch the eye.
Equally pleasing is the setting in Chania's Koum Kapi district. You're a short walk from the city's Venetian quarter, with its stunning harbour, pedestrian lanes and bustling shops and bars; and an even shorter walk the other way (2 mins) to the sheltered sandy beach. The town boasts some of the best food on the entire island (a crossing point of three continents – Europe, Africa and Asia) – and the cuisine reflects these Arabic, Venetian and Ottoman influences. We can't wait to try it all out!
Highs
- Great location – in a quiet residential street, but close enough to wander into the heart of the action (or to the beach); you could easily manage without a hire car
- The hanging garden on the rooftop terrace is beautifully designed and a great place to sunbathe or enjoy a sundowner
- It looks fantastic and is filled with artworks and pieces from the owner’s own private collection; a very different vibe to traditional Greek getaways
- Living areas and bedrooms are split between both floors, making this a great set up for couples holidaying together
- Charming local hosts Rea and Katerina are helpful with recommendations and arrangements; you're in good hands from the moment you arrive
Lows
- At the pricier end of the accommodation spectrum around these parts, and there’s no swimming pool
- The roof terrace can get very hot in the daytime, plus there's no table to eat dinner al fresco
- The lower floor, while cool and comfortable, can also feel a little dark during the day; and the front door opens up to a road
- The prevalence of artworks means there’s a minimum age of 12+
Best time to go
Chania has a Mediterranean climate with hot dry summers and mild winters. If you're a sunseeker the best time to visit is between June and September. The hottest month of the year is July, with an average daily maximum of 32C and an average low of 22C. However, it is a popular tourist destination so early spring and autumn will be less crowded. The Chania Design House is open year-round.
Our top tips
If you have a spare day, book a trip (don’t drive) to the 16km-long Samaria Gorge on the opposite side of the island. It’s a stunning national park, only open from May to October, and has some jaw-dropping scenery. However, once you’re in there’s no turning back, so go very early before the sun hits its peak, and pack good shoes and plenty of fluids. This is a true hike but very much worth it.
Alternatively, if you're an experienced hiker head to the Aradaina gorge; the end of your 3-hour hike brings you to spectacular Marmara beach.
Alternatively, if you're an experienced hiker head to the Aradaina gorge; the end of your 3-hour hike brings you to spectacular Marmara beach.
Our guests' ratings...
Based on 1 independent review from i-escape guests
A lovely, stylish house away from the touristy part of Chania. Having last visited Chania 30 years ago, tourism has increased so we loved being in this more residential, less developed area but within ten mins walking distance of the old centre.
Right by the sea and with some lovely places to eat on the doorstep (especially enjoyed Maiami) and also close to the old tannery area which now hosts the new archeological museum and some wonderful restaurants on the rocks.
The house, owned by Nikos, is super clean and beautifully furnished with his distinctive eye for design classics, rustic/atomic look. Nikos also owns the Ammos hotel, a 20 minute drive away, where he welcomed us to use the pool and private beach. He was a great host giving us helpful information as did Rea, his wonderful colleague who met us at the house, responded to all our questions and generally looked after us and made sure we had a wonderful stay.
Feedback is only from guests who have booked and stayed through i-escape