The Owners
Tim and Rebecca discovered Hydra Island on a short holiday in 2010. Struck by the timeless serenity, natural beauty and culture, they returned each year for longer and longer stays, each time discovering more of the archaeologically protected island. One day they spotted a small stone house, sadly neglected, perched on the water’s edge near a tiny fishing village.
The house was built in the 1870s, likely by a fisherman or ceramist, on a promontory that juts into the sea. One side abuts the fishing pier for Kamini, a tiny fishing village, where fishermen still tie-up their caiques (kaiki)— traditional brightly painted wooden fishing boats. The other side faces the home’s private gardens and looks out over the islands dotted in the sea. Each evening, the home is graced by the setting sun.
Two years after spotting the dilapidated ‘rock by the sea’, Tim and Rebecca had the good fortune to buy it. In desperate need of restoration, they embarked on a five-year journey to restore the home to its glory. They passionately delved into designing, making and creating the project. Local Hydriots helped, and many new friends were made.
Meticulous restoration was essential. The owners used traditional materials – stone, wood, lime, marble. They followed traditional methods in building. Exceptionally skilled stonemasons restored the stone walls, terraces and solid-marble basins for the bathrooms and kitchen; local carpenters made the floors, ceilings, windows, doors and furniture. In time-honoured tradition, the exterior is repainted every year with natural lime-wash.
The stone terraces and balcony were rebuilt, as were the walkways to the sea and private pier and swim cove. The garden was replanted with Mediterranean species: a blend of flowers (bougainvillea, jasmine), fruit trees (pomegranate, fig, olive) and herbs (rosemary, thyme, laurel, mint, coriander). Furniture was sourced from local carpenters; the lead carpenter made the outdoor dining table by hand. New touches were added to make the home even more special – a complete and full kitchen, an outdoor kitchenette, a refurbished bench, a steam shower and more.
Tim and Rebecca love to share their home with friends and family. Join us in making your memories at Petras Private Residence.
Tim and Rebecca welcome you