JW Marriott Crete Resort and Spa

Block722's new 5-star resort for JW Marriott in Marathi, Crete is a benchmark for sustainable Mediterranean hospitality. Set on the steep hillside above Souda Bay, the project combines contemporary architectural precision with the spirit of the Cretan landscape. Spanning 59,700 sqm and accommodating 450 guests in 160 rooms and suites, the resort incorporates traditional elements, regenerative design strategies, and local craftsmanship to form an authentic experience for guests. Passive and active environmental systems - from green roofs and photovoltaic panels to native plantings and locally sourced stone - allow the resort to minimize its footprint while enhancing the biodiversity of its region. A respectful blend of tradition and innovation, this landmark development exemplifies Block722's ethos: refined simplicity, environmental integrity, and restorative luxury.

Year: 2025

Location: Crete, Greece

Type: Resort

Build Area: 13.600 m² - Plot: 59.700 m²

Status: Completed

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Client: Marriott Hotels & Resorts

Hotel Owner: Vasilakis SA

Brand: JW Marriott

Operational Manager: Swot Hospitality

Creative Direction, Architecture & Interior design: Block722

Block722 Design Leaders: Sotiris Tsergas, Katja Margaritoglou, Christina Kontou, Elena Milidaki

Block722 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