Moonhouse Paros: Where Minimalism and Soulfulness Collide
In the Cycladic hills of Paros, overlooking the luminous Aegean, a new sanctuary is quietly redefining the island’s allure. Moonhouse, designed and owned by ceramic artist Christiane Smit, offers travelers a glimpse into the soul of Paros through its understated elegance, deeply personal story, and a design philosophy rooted in harmony with nature.
Christiane’s path to Moonhouse was as unconventional as it is inspiring. A former model in the 1990s, she cultivated her aesthetic sensibility in a world that valued clean lines and striking simplicity. But her creative journey truly began in Curaçao and Holland, where the vibrant landscapes and tactile beauty of her upbringing inspired her lifelong fascination with the raw, organic forms found in nature.
“My work and my spaces are about finding balance,” she reflects. “It’s not about excess; it’s about simplicity that feels intentional and soulful.”
Today, her ceramic collection, aptly titled EARTH, is a study in that balance. Each piece, handcrafted using ancient coiling techniques, celebrates raw textures and bold, modern forms. These creations echo the design of Moonhouse itself, where architecture and nature flow seamlessly together. Built into the hillside, the villa feels like an extension of its environment, with windows framing the shifting light of the Aegean as if it were an ever-changing work of art.
Moonhouse’s interiors reflect the same thoughtful simplicity. Three bedrooms in the main house and two private guest houses are designed with muted palettes, tactile materials, and curated objects, many of them locally sourced or handmade. A saltwater pool glistens beneath the Greek sun, while expansive terraces offer the perfect perch to watch the moon rise over the sea—a nod to the villa’s evocative name.
But what truly sets Moonhouse apart is the way it invites guests to experience Paros anew. Beyond its serene beauty, the villa is a gateway to the island’s essence: the cosmopolitan buzz of Naoussa, the quiet charm of Parikia, and the allure of nearby Antiparos. Here, travelers are encouraged to slow down, reconnect with the land, and embrace the luxury of simplicity.
“Beauty should never feel complicated,” Christiane says. “Moonhouse is about creating space—both physically and emotionally—for simplistic living.”
Rates at Moonhouse range from €8,500 to €16,000 per week, making it a truly exclusive retreat for those seeking to immerse themselves in the spirit of Paros.
ABOUT MOONHOUSE, Paros, Greece
This magical villa sits high above Paros and was lovingly created by resident, and friend, the gorgeous, minimalist Christiane Smit. Echoing a serene sensibility, and a zen-like ambiance, Moonhouse is one of the island’s newest villas. With striking views spanning to the sparkling Aegean Sea, the sprawling home is built into the hillside, seemingly one with nature. Watch the sun set as the moon rises, while the mystical Greek light evokes a sense of place found only here. Design is minimal, with important architectural touches, well-defined living areas, and windows that frame the landscape beyond, creating a living art installation that calms the soul. Set high above the island—yet minutes away from both Naousa and Parikia with its lively restaurants and charming ambiance—Moonhouse allows you to embrace its natural environs, reconnect with the land and enjoy the slow-paced luxury that epitomizes Cycladic island living. The three bedrooms in the main house are havens of comfort and style, each boasting its own en-suite bathroom, while the separate guest house offers an additional retreat, ensuring privacy and convenience. With its own kitchen and living room, two bedrooms, and a shared bathroom, you have the beauty of friends without sharing your immediate space. Private bookings only. moonhouseparos.com