Peppas N Architects, Hirsch Bedner Associates (HBA) and Constantina Tsoutsikou are working together to create Royal Senses Resort & Spa Crete for Troulis Royal Collection, with a design inspired by the Cretan heritage.

The aim has been to go above and beyond a typical luxury family resort while combining Crete’s rugged landscape and the character of its people with a cosmopolitan style.

"The landscape’s rough beauty creates a wonderful juxtaposition with the clean, minimal lines of the buildings," said Nikos Peppas and Katerina Tsiolaki of Peppas N Architects. "We designed and positioned all buildings in a way that ensured unobstructed views to the endless blue of the Aegean Sea, wherever you are."

Due to open in June, the resort will feature 179 suites and villas ranging from 35sq m (377sq ft) rooms with sea views and natural furnishings up to 200sq m (2,150sq ft) villas with private infinity pools carved into the island rock.

HBA and Constantina Tsoutsikou have sought to create interiors that are modern but authentically local, with earthy and textural design elements, carpentry and furniture from local craftsmen and textured, painted, Cretan-patterned walls.

Zacharias, Kostas and Manolis Troulis, co-owners of the Troulis Royal Collection, said: "We are fully committed to our responsibility to the island, its people and our cultural heritage. We wish to show guests all sides of the Cretan identity and embed ourselves purposefully into the texture of the island."

In addition to 74 private infinity pools, the resort will feature four large communal pools and an activity spa offering therapies that exclusively utilise Cretan herbs. There will also be three restaurants, four bars and "marketplace" that hosts pop-up food stalls.