Architecture
- Τhe buildings follow the principles of bioclimatic architecture: The size and orientation of the openings, as well as the 60 to 110 centimeter stone walls, allow for natural lighting and airing and for stable temperature levels
- The new low height cubic buildings are positioned in a way that, they do not impose on the existing Τhemonies and the landscape, but also they interrelate harmoniously with them
- The stone comes from nearby excavation – blending ideally with the environment – and has been built in accordance with the local techniques
- Ecological paints have been used everywhere, allowing for the natural respiration of the buildings
- The openings frames provide high level of sound-, thermo-, and air-insulation, thus contributing to healthier living conditions as well as substantial savings on A/C usage
- The outdoor lights have been discretely positioned, in order to form the lowest number possible and to preserve the simplicity of the place
- With great respect for the ambience of the old buildings, the ceiling timber of “feides”, originating from the rare, nowadays, Cycladic bush, were carefully restored, without being removed
- Xeric or low water consumption landscaping, selected from the local flora, has been installed
Further care for water consumption reduce
- Rain water collection tanks have been constructed, to provide water for plant watering or for cleaning
- The original “sterna” (water tank) of the complex of Themonies has been preserved and is being used
- Water supply has been set lower than 10 lt/min (Ecolabel certification requirement)
- Sheets and towels reuse option for two night stays is in policy
- The water boiler is supplied with thermostat and water circulation automation system
Further care for energy conservation
- Electricity supply systems cards have been installed in all apartments: when guests leave the apartment, electricity shuts down
- Energy efficient lighting is being utilized in all outdoor and parking areas, as well as in selected places in central building and suites
- A/C interruption automation system has been installed in all suites’ doors and windows
Property care and cleaning
- Environmentally friendly chemicals are used in cleaning
- Environmentally friendly detergents are used for laundry
- Entire property is non-smoking
- Linen and cotton bedding and towels are utilized
Public and personnel information
- Guests are informed of environmental initiatives at check-in
- We promote our eco-initiatives via our web, our brochures and the media
- We train our staff to implement, evaluate and improve environmental performance
Reduce - Reuse
- Whenever possible, we follow the “reuse – reduce” practice – since there is no infrastructure for recycling on Folegandros yet
- We recycle the batteries (out of the island)
- When possible, we send hotel leaflets in electronic way (pdf) rather than paper
- We reuse printer printouts for notes
- We preferably purchase supplies that can be reused (reuse soft drink and beer glass bottles, e.tc.)
- We purchase fresh and local traditional products to include in our breakfast options
- We do not make use of products in individual packaging for breakfast
- We only use non-disposable products (except for paper napkins) in servings
- We only use bulk soap in both public and private areas, and we provide bath amenities in larger packaging (350 ml)
- Our proficient bar list includes, when possible, Greek products
Hotel contribution το "sense of place"
- Through the preservation οf an original 19th century agricultural unit, which provides valuable information on past economic and social structures
- Through the revival of the old complex of Τhemonies into a completely functional, contemporary hub of life
- Through hotel architecture, which embraces the philosophy of simplicity and measure, characterizing Folegandros
- Through the organization of the complex around a central “square”, as a reminder of the traditional social needs of the island
- Through staff devotion towards the essence of hospitality, that has made Folegandros so beloved to so many faithful friends