JW Marriott in Marathi, Crete Block722’s latest project for JW Marriott in Marathi, Crete, redefines sustainable hospitality on the Mediterranean coast. Nestled on a steep, rocky hillside above Souda Bay, the 5-star resort blends seamlessly with its wild surroundings, drawing inspiration from local tradition, craftsmanship, and the slow rhythms of Cretan life. Spanning 59,700 m², the resort features 160 rooms and suites, integrated harmoniously into the natural terrain. The layout offers uninterrupted sea views, privacy, and immersion in the landscape, with sunken seating islands, shaded terraces, and private pools that create natural cooling zones. Public spaces flow organically from indoor to outdoor, with natural light, local materials, and native planting creating a serene and tactile environment. Architecture is inspired by Doric simplicity, with geometric volumes, pergolas, and water features connecting the built and natural worlds. Sustainability is central to the design. Materials were sourced locally—many directly from the site—while passive and active environmental systems ensure minimal impact and regenerative effect. Stone walls from on-site excavation, green roofs, solar panels, and drought-tolerant plants help preserve and enhance biodiversity. The result is a resort that feels “born from the land”: an authentic, respectful, and luxurious destination that reflects Block722’s ethos of refined simplicity and environmental integrity. This is not just a hotel—it’s a living blueprint for responsible architecture and immersive travel, offering guests not only comfort, but a deeper connection to Crete’s elemental spirit. Location: Crete, Greece Type: Resort Area: 13.600 m² - Plot: 59.700 m² Status: Completed Opening Date: June 2025 FACILITIES No. of Guestrooms: 160 F&B: Restaurants (Fayi, Anoee, Onalos, Cuccagna), Bar & Pool Bar Spa & Wellness: Pool & Thermal facilities, Treatment rooms, Beauty Treatment, Gym Other Facilities: Kids Club, Outdoor yoga area, JW market, Retail KEY PARTIES Client: Marriott Hotels & Resorts Hotel Owner: Vasilakis SA Brand: JW Marriott Operational Manager: SWOT Hospitality Creative Direction, Architecture & Interior design: Block722 Block722 Leaders: Sotiris Tsergas, Katja Margaritoglou, Christina Kontou, Elena Milidaki Design Team: Apostolos Karastamatis, Eirini Tsakalaki, Danai Lazaridi, Electra Polyzou, Marilena Michalopoulou, Xenia Bouranta, Georgia Nikolopoulou, Tzemil Moustafoglou, Gregory Bodiotis Architectural visualization: Block722 Landscaping: Doxiadis + Planting: M&M Constructions Ltd Construction & Project Manager: Vasilakis SA, Yiannis Poulianakis, Sofia Papavasileiou Procurement: Vasilakis SA Lighting Design: L+DG Lighting Architects Structural: PLINTH MEP Eng: AGAPALAKIS & ASSOCIATES L.P. Spa & Wellness consultants: Eminence Hospitality and Andrew Gibson Art direction: Block722, Efi Spyrou Photographer: Ana Santl Styling: Priszcilla Varga Aerial videographer and photographer: George Pappas