Ritualistic process

LOULOU, an iconic boutique dedicated to rare and avant-garde eyewear, introduces its new space in Lyon, conceived as a spatial showcase that reflects both the exclusivity of its collections and the identity of the brand. Recognized internationally and ranked among the top five optical boutiques worldwide, the project articulates a synthesis of design, craftsmanship, and curated retail experience.

The boutique presents a carefully assembled selection of eyewear from international designers, emphasizing rarity, innovation, and the art of detail. Brands originating from diverse cultural contexts, including Japan, France, the United States, and Brazil, are brought together under a unified curatorial vision that foregrounds material precision and aesthetic clarity.

 

Retail Concept

Situated in a new address in Lyon, the store establishes itself as a destination for design-conscious audiences. The relocation marks a strategic evolution, transforming the boutique into a spatial narrative where objects are revealed progressively, fostering a sense of discovery. The retail experience departs from conventional optical environments, instead embracing a philosophy of “quiet luxury,” where discretion, refinement, and personal interaction define the product engagement.

This approach reframes the act of selection as an intimate and almost ritualistic process, where eyewear is introduced gradually, echoing gestures of hospitality and attentiveness. The boutique operates not only as a commercial space but also as a platform supporting independent design and local craftsmanship.

 

 

Spatial Organization

The proposal articulates a contemporary interior language through a restrained yet expressive palette of materials. Pink concrete, dark wood, and brushed metal are combined to construct a layered spatial environment that balances tactility with visual coherence.

The spatial organization unfolds as a sequence of intimate zones, culminating in a boudoir-like setting that enhances the experiential dimension of the visit. This configuration allows for both display and consultation, integrating functional requirements, such as eye testing, within a cohesive and refined architectural framework.

 

 

Material Palette

Materiality plays a central role in defining the identity of the space. The juxtaposition of raw and refined surfaces establishes a dialogue between permanence and precision, while the controlled use of color and texture contributes to an atmosphere of understated sophistication.

The detailing of the interior reinforces the brand’s commitment to craftsmanship, translating the qualities of the eyewear collections into spatial form. Through this approach, the boutique transcends its commercial function, becoming an architectural expression of curated design culture and sensory experience.

 

Shared core

The redesign of the Wealth Management department offices of a dynamic securities company in Athens presented an opportunity to upgrade employees’ everyday experience by improving the qualitative and functional aspects of their working environment. The offices occupy the ground floor of a six-story building dating back to the 1990s, where the existing condition served as the basis for a contemporary reinterpretation of the space.

 

Design Philosophy

A primary objective of the study was to provide sufficient workstations for a continuously expanding team, while also addressing needs for comfort, sound insulation, collaboration, and flexibility. The main challenge lay in accommodating a large number of users within a limited floor area, further complicated by the team’s hybrid working model.

The spatial organization is structured around an elongated, communal “core,” which functions as the main axis of circulation and activity. This core incorporates workstations, a lounge area, storage units, and auxiliary functions, while the more private workspaces are arranged around it. These include offices of varying capacity, an executive office, a meeting room, and supporting spaces such as a kitchenette and WC.

 

 

Material Palette

The dissolution of rigid boundaries is achieved through the use of glass partitions, enhancing visual continuity and reinforcing the perception of the space as a unified environment. At the same time, the “stripping back” of the building envelope – through the removal of suspended ceilings and the exposure of the structural and mechanical systems – introduces an aesthetic of honesty and industrial clarity.

In contrast to the exposed structural elements such as concrete, metal, and visible installations, the material palette is enriched with warm and tactile qualities: woven vinyl flooring in sandy tones, natural walnut veneer surfaces, upholstery fabrics with subtle color accents, and integrated greenery. The result is a balanced composition between technical austerity and spatial warmth.

 

 

Lighting & Acoustic Design

Lighting design played a crucial role, given the uneven distribution of natural light within the ground-floor space. Through a combination of direct and indirect artificial lighting, adjustable shading systems, and specialized window films, a balanced luminous environment is achieved while minimizing glare.

At the same time, acoustic comfort is ensured through the use of sound-absorbing materials, such as perforated surfaces, fabric shades, and specialized flooring, contributing to a calm and productive working atmosphere. Guided by the principles of clarity, transparency, and honesty, the project shapes a multifaceted and flexible workspace that encourages interaction, supports concentration, and enhances the overall daily experience of its users.

 

Biophilic design

The company’s offices, belonging to a global leader in the food industry, have been fully renovated, transitioning from a traditional layout to a biophilic, innovative work environment. Moving away from the conventional closed-office typology, the new space adopts a variety of scenarios. Centered around an open plan logic, the design introduces flexibility, enabling the creation of spaces that support diverse modes of collaboration.

 

Design Philosophy

Materials assume a defining role, shaping atmospheres that encourage a sense of engagement – an essential catalyst for fostering creativity. At the same time, sustainability is embedded as a key component, aligned with the company’s philosophy throughout the entire design process. Upon entry, the reception area conveys a welcoming character, with soft, curved wooden lines that gently embrace the Nestlé logo. Elements such as marble and an olive tree are incorporated to reinforce local identity, while the material and color palette subtly reference local brands. The company’s values are dynamically communicated through an LED wall that adjusts its lighting according to the time of day.

The overall design is organized around a layout accommodating approximately 50–60 workstations per floor, complemented by alternative work areas tailored to the needs of different departments. The workspace prioritizes the open plan concept and the diffusion of natural light through perimeter openings, minimizing visual barriers. At the center of the design lies the “core” – a closed, dynamic form that defines Nestlé’s new era while hosting a variety of functions across distinct zones.

 

 

Spatial Organization

Collaboration rooms, focus booths, pet corners, and recreational areas respond to the diverse needs of the workplace. The aesthetic of the core, linked to the motto “Growing Tree of Good Life,” aligns with the company’s work strategy, while relaxation areas and soft corners distributed throughout the layout promote a sense of comfort, facilitating dialogue and collaboration.

At the main entrance of each floor, a lounge meeting point welcomes visitors, functioning as a flexible space for waiting, relaxation, or informal meetings. Adjacent to it, the “Amphitheater” – inspired by Greek sculptural architecture – offers the possibility of large-scale open gatherings for idea exchange, combining physical presence with technology. Thematic leisure areas on each level act as landmarks that embrace the brand represented by each floor. The meeting room on the north side draws inspiration from the deep blue of the Aegean, symbolizing the dynamism of technology as a medium for next-generation communication and collaboration. Descending to the semi-basement level, users encounter the restaurant, which operates as a space for dining, meetings, or assemblies.

 

 

Materiality & Sustainability

Aiming to support this multifaceted narrative, the restaurant is equipped with flexible furniture that allows for alternative configurations, while plants, in combination with the surrounding outdoor environment, complete the design.

Across the project, 90% of the flooring consists of recyclable materials, wall claddings are made from natural materials such as wood and cork, and acoustic panels are constructed from recycled plastic bottles.

Sustainability lies at the core of the design, with each floor featuring dedicated recycling points for waste separation. The office is also pet-friendly, the first of its kind in Athens, featuring pet corners and a dedicated check-in/check-out system for companion animals.

 

Digital ecosystem

The Viva Wallet headquarters constitute a model working environment, with sustainability at the core of the architectural design. By maximizing natural light and introducing 2,234 plants from 35 different species, an artificial landscape is created that promotes wellbeing and team cohesion.

 

Brand Identity

Mediterranean gardens, lush with lavender, thyme, olive trees, and almond trees, articulate an architecture with a strong ecological consciousness, offering ideal conditions for creativity and innovation within the fast-paced context of the fintech world.

The twin-building complex, organized around a central atrium, operates as an administrative hub for the company’s European activities, accommodating 450 of its total 1,000 employees.

The architectural branding strategy developed for this project established the foundations for a unified corporate identity, applied across all 24 countries where Viva Wallet operates.

 

 

Spatial Organization

The transformation of the workplace model after the pandemic calls for new approaches to spatial design. The new headquarters is thus conceived not only as a place of work, but as a hub for interaction and creative exchange.

Flexible collaboration zones encourage communication and interaction, while areas for individual work provide conditions for focus and seclusion. Meeting rooms, defined by glass surfaces with varying degrees of transparency, maintain spatial continuity while ensuring privacy.

The working environment is further enriched through multifunctional configurations such as brainstorming caves, lounges, and a planted roof, offering alternative modes of working, coexisting, and relaxation. The atrium hosts the “Code Bites” restaurant, promoting gastronomic wellbeing as an integral aspect of corporate culture, while the rooftop café functions as an alternative social hub. Both facilities are designed to transform into amphitheatrical layouts for presentations and corporate events.

 

 

Materiality & Bioclimatic Design

The building’s aesthetic balances technology and nature, with a color palette that combines the deep blue of the corporate identity with earthy tones and natural materials. The bioclimatic design integrates a wide variety of plants, functioning as a living filter that purifies the air and reduces noise pollution. Large glass surfaces allow abundant natural light to penetrate the interior, significantly reducing energy consumption and enhancing indoor environmental quality.

The new Viva Wallet headquarters is not merely a workspace, but a complex ecosystem designed to respond to the evolving demands of the digital era. It reflects the transition from a static, linear model of work to a dynamic, sustainable, and adaptable environment, where physical presence acquires new meaning.

Its architecture serves not only productivity but equally wellbeing, creativity, and sustainable development, shaping a holistic model that supports contemporary professional life and anticipates the future of work.

 

Extroverted geometry

Simple linear geometries, clarity of form, brightness, and a sense of freshness are combined with functionality and warmth to shape the design of the “Pick Up” all day coffee & brunch. Conceived through an extroverted spatial approach, the project emphasizes the relationship between interior and exterior, establishing an active dialogue with the street and the surrounding neighborhood. By employing a restrained palette of low-cost materials – terracotta brick, glossy white ceramic tiles, polished cement screed, and birch plywood – the space articulates a timeless aesthetic through a contemporary architectural lens.

 

Spatial Organization

The composition is structured into two primary zones: an open bar dedicated to coffee and food preparation, and a seating area for guests. This clear functional division enhances usability while maintaining visual continuity across the space. A linear built-in bench in terracotta, fixed constructions clad in ceramic tiles, and a custom-made installation composed of reused broken tiles contribute to a cohesive and adaptable interior environment. The arrangement prioritizes both efficiency and comfort, reinforcing the social character of the café.

 

 

Material Palette

White-painted interior surfaces operate as a neutral background, allowing the tactile presence of terracotta and the reflective quality of glossy ceramic tiles to emerge as dominant elements. The polished cement screed flooring, rendered in a concrete tone, introduces a sense of material density and continuity, grounding the interior composition. The integration of greenery further enhances spatial freshness, strengthening the connection between inside and outside while softening the mineral palette.

 

 

Brand Design

The design logic extends seamlessly to the exterior, where the façade becomes an active component of the project’s identity. A custom-made circular sign, crafted from terracotta and white ceramic tiles, serves as a focal point, visually anchoring the café within its urban context. This gesture consolidates the project’s material language and reinforces its presence in the streetscape, completing a unified architectural narrative that bridges interior atmosphere and public interface.

 

Spatial mediator

Set within the tall perimeter walls of a disused factory, the project unfolds as a carefully orchestrated intervention that redefines the relationship between domestic life, industrial memory, and landscape. Rather than demolishing the existing structure, the proposal preserves its masonry enclosure, transforming constraints into spatial opportunities. Hidden behind a modest entrance, the residence reveals itself gradually, structured around a central open-air garden that becomes the core of the architectural composition.

 

Renovation Strategy

Facing a public square in Lendinara, the project presents a restrained and almost opaque exterior. A tall wall, marked by an irregular profile, recalls the layered history of industrial constructions in the area. The only visible opening – a small iron door – conceals the spatial richness beyond. Once inside, the perception shifts dramatically, revealing a lush, enclosed garden defined by high walls and climbing vegetation.

Located in a context where traces of past industrial activity coexist with residential fabric and green spaces, the project engages directly with its surroundings. The proximity to the public park and the historic garden of Ca’ Dolfin-Marchiori informs the architectural strategy, introducing landscape as an essential component of the dwelling experience.

 

 

Landscape Design

At the heart of the project lies the garden, conceived as an open-air room that organizes the entire domestic program. Created through the partial demolition of the factory roof and the repositioning of the new volume, this green courtyard introduces light, air, and visual continuity into an otherwise introverted structure.

The house develops as a compact, two-level volume inserted within the preserved perimeter walls. Its spatial configuration establishes a continuous dialogue with the garden, most notably through a double-height living space that opens fully onto it via a large, glazed façade. Framed by a timber lattice structure, this transparent surface mediates between interior and exterior, reinforcing the vertical rhythm of the composition and extending into the roof geometry.

 

 

Design Philosophy

The project is defined by a deliberate interplay between openness and enclosure, visibility and concealment. From the street, the house remains entirely hidden, while internally it unfolds through carefully framed views toward greenery. This sequence of spatial transitions constructs a controlled yet dynamic experience of movement and perception.

Materially and structurally, the intervention balances timber, steel, and glass within the existing masonry framework. The new construction echoes the industrial profile of the former building, while introducing a refined architectural language that emphasizes lightness and spatial continuity.

Guided by the notion of landscape as an architectural device, the design moves beyond nostalgic references to industrial heritage. Instead, it repositions the garden as a fundamental condition of contemporary dwelling – not as a decorative element, but as a necessary spatial and environmental mediator that defines the identity of the house.

Flow and Tranquility

On Hudayriyat Island in Abu Dhabi, between the desert and the sea, the Ilios Beach Club and the Nalu Surf Club redefine the experience of surf culture and hospitality. The two luxury venues are located at the heart of Surf Abu Dhabi, the largest and most advanced artificial wave facility in the world.

 

Design Philosophy

The conceptual starting point was the dynamic moment when the surfer meets the wave – immersion, resistance, flow and the eventual return to calm. This sequence of intensity and release is translated into an architectural narrative, where rhythm, pause and movement organize the transition between the two venues and guide the visitor’s spatial experience.

 

 

Spatial Organization

Ilios Beach Club expresses the harmony and elegance of surf culture. The ground floor opens visually towards the surrounding landscape, while the first-floor lounge functions as a point of pause, offering panoramic views of the setting. Throughout the day, lighting and atmosphere gradually shift, creating a transition from daylight conditions to a more theatrical nighttime environment.

In contrast, the Nalu Surf Club embodies the vibrant and unpretentious energy of the surf lifestyle. Warm tones and textures reminiscent of sand, salt and weathered wood create a more grounded atmosphere. The ground floor remains active throughout the day, while the first-floor VIP lounge provides a more private and inward-looking experience.

At the center of the complex lies the striking wave pool, measuring 65m in length and 14m in width, which defines the scale, rhythm and intensity of the architectural composition. The curves of the waves are translated into undulating ceilings, fluid lines, multiple levels and axial pathways that shape movement throughout the complex.

 

 

Materials & Lighting

The material palette reinforces this sense of flow and continuity. Travertine, oak timber, teak and iroko, ribbed glass, sculptural details and finishes made from natural fibers create a warm and tactile environment.

Natural lighting and cross ventilation are maximized, strengthening the connection between the space and the elements of wind and sun – essential aspects of the surfing experience. At the same time, a multilayered artificial lighting scheme highlights the curves and geometries of the architecture, emphasizing the spatial composition during nighttime hours.

Through Ilios and Nalu, a unified architectural ensemble emerges, balancing flow and stillness. The result is a multisensory hospitality experience rooted in rhythm, equilibrium and the authenticity of surf culture.

 

Spatial scenography

The aim of the project was the complete conversion of a residence originally designed in the early 1980s by architect N. Valsamakis. Located in Panorama, Thessaloniki, the building now accommodates the Siskou Derma Clinic, a contemporary dermatology center that seeks to redefine the typology of the medical space in Greece, creating an environment of refined familiarity, far removed from the conventions of the typical medical office.

 

Design Philosophy

The original residence is a characteristic example of the modern movement in the city, defined by clear geometric compositions, balanced volumes and a striking white plaster finish that emphasizes the plasticity of its form. The intervention sought to preserve the architectural identity of the initial design while introducing new elements that ensure functional upgrading and spatial coherence.

The design strategy focused on reinterpreting the experience of a medical environment, drawing references from contemporary European clinic architecture. Through subtle interventions and a careful management of materials and proportions, the project achieves a balance between respecting the existing building and accommodating a new functional program.

 

 

Spatial Organization & Materials

The interior environment is organized around the idea of domestic comfort, creating spaces that convey calmness and trust to visitors. The spatial atmosphere draws inspiration from refined modernism and the aesthetics of mid-century design, with materials and objects acting as key carriers of the overall ambiance.

Oak wall paneling, velvet armchairs and carefully selected lighting fixtures compose a palette of materials and textures that expresses understated luxury. The composition remains strictly minimal, allowing the materials to stand out through their texture and natural presence without unnecessary formal gestures. Each object is carefully placed within the space, contributing to a coherent spatial experience defined by clean lines and balanced aesthetics.

 

 

Lighting Design

The scenography of the interior unfolds through subtle shifts of light, textures and visual focal points that guide the visitor’s movement through the space. Lighting operates as a primary tool for shaping the atmosphere.

The lighting design enhances the sense of privacy and comfort while simultaneously highlighting architectural surfaces and interior details. Through discreet lighting interventions, a balance is achieved between functionality and spatial experience.

The final spatial composition is complemented by selected artworks that are integrated into the architectural narrative of the project.

 

Industrial Aesthetic

In the center of the city of Volos, a specialty coffee shop with a strong urban character is introduced to the public through its clearly defined design identity. The core concept focuses on the creation of a minimal and fresh space, enriched with discreet industrial elements that convey energy and an intense morning atmosphere.

 

Spatial Organization

Within a compact area of 35m2, which includes spatial units such as the bar, preparation area, customer circulation zone, seating area, as well as auxiliary spaces for storage and WC, particular emphasis is placed on the formation of a functional and ergonomic layout.

Inside, the centrally positioned bar operates both as the main functional production element and as a point of daily social interaction. Behind it, compositions of metal shelving structures arranged in a grid highlight the interior height of the space, while suspended circular metal elements add an additional industrial character.

 

 

Façade Design

The extroverted character of the space is largely defined by the design approach of the façades. Slender white metal frames open the interior towards the urban environment, transforming the coffee preparation process into a daily urban experience. In addition, the handmade pine wood entrance doors introduce a distinctive sense of warmth and a gentle contrast to the predominantly white composition.

 

 

Materials, Lighting & Constructions

Both externally and internally, white surfaces dominate, while characteristic metal elements in a vivid yellow color introduce a pop-like quality. In between, the use of oak textures adds a sense of calmness and balance. The material palette is completed by the targeted use of white square tiles.

Special emphasis is placed on construction details. From the laser-cut entrance handles to the rounded planters and fluid decorative forms, all elements are the result of deliberate design, aiming to shape a unified and coherent identity.

Finally, artificial lighting plays a significant role, following a laboratory-inspired approach through the use of suspended linear lighting above the bar, as well as neon-type signage and light boxes, completing the urban character of the project.

 

Targeted interventions

Athena Residence is the renovation of a 1960s apartment in central Athens, conceived as a small-scale hospitality project within the dense urban fabric of Kolonaki.

 

Adaptive Reuse

Located in Kolonaki and completed in 2024, the project responds to the evolving reality of contemporary Athens, where domestic interiors are increasingly required to accommodate hybrid modes of inhabitation – daily life alongside short-term stays. Working within the constraints of an existing building and a tightly defined budget, the project adopts a strategy of light yet decisive intervention. Rather than pursuing formal transformation, the design prioritizes reuse, spatial clarity and long-term performance.

The original timber flooring was carefully retained and restored, grounding the apartment in its material past. New bespoke joinery elements in timber and brass organize the kitchen, storage and wardrobes as fixed architectural components rather than loose furnishings, reinforcing a sense of permanence and cohesion. Subtle reconfigurations of the layout enhance circulation, daylight penetration and spatial flexibility, allowing the apartment to adapt to shifting patterns of occupation without altering its structural logic.

 

 

Sustainability Approach

Operational energy formed a central pillar of the project’s sustainable agenda. In a city where much of the residential stock remains energetically inefficient, the renovation focused on substantially reducing operational demand instead of relying on superficial upgrades. High-performance glazing, low-energy lighting, photovoltaic provision and the replacement of the existing gas heating system with an air-source heat pump collectively led to a reduction of more than 65% in operational energy consumption. The apartment’s energy classification was upgraded from Z to B+, marking a significant environmental improvement within the existing shell.

 

 

Design Philosophy

Athena Residence reflects a broader architectural attitude emerging in Athens, one that values continuity, responsibility and careful engagement with the existing built fabric. Rather than extracting value through spectacle, the project demonstrates how targeted, precise interventions can enhance comfort, environmental performance and longevity. In doing so, it proposes an alternative model of small-scale hospitality: one embedded in the city’s everyday life, respectful of its material history and oriented toward durable, long-term use.

 

Prefabricated elements

The project exemplifies an approach to residential architecture in which buildings are conceived as integral parts of their landscapes, while simultaneously advancing sustainable construction methods and future-oriented living models.

 

Design Philosophy

The residence was developed in close collaboration with the clients and explored on screen as part of a nationally recognized architecture and design program, marking a milestone in the adoption of prefabricated residential construction within a mainstream context. Particular emphasis was placed on the clarity and predictability of the construction process, with off-site fabrication allowing for strict cost control, precision, and consistency between design intent and delivery. The approach demonstrated a forward-looking model for self-built housing, in which efficiency, quality, and economic certainty are aligned.

 

 

Spatial Layout

Set within a private rural plot, the single-storey dwelling is organized to support long-term adaptability and contemporary family living. The program unfolds across four bedrooms, generous living, dining, and kitchen areas, complemented by a snug, office, and utility spaces. Additional functions are accommodated within a series of outbuildings, including a garage, gym, and workshop, which are arranged around landscaped garden zones. These outdoor spaces are shaped by the subtle rotation of the floor plan, creating varied orientations, framed views, and sheltered external areas.

 

 

Material & Construction

The building envelope is clad in black charred timber sourced in the UK, allowing the dwelling to visually recede into its natural surroundings. This material strategy balances contextual sensitivity with a strong contemporary presence, reinforcing the relationship between architecture and landscape.

The house was delivered as five prefabricated volumetric modules, installed on site within a single day. This off-site construction strategy enabled high levels of build accuracy, reduced on-site disruption, and minimized embodied carbon. Sustainably sourced timber, integrated solar systems, and a lightweight structural assembly further reinforce the project’s environmental performance.

 

Visual permeability

A compact hair studio of just 28m2 has been transformed into a spatial experience defined by clarity, warmth, and highly intentional material choices. Located in the commercial heart of Melissia, the project explores how light, color, and structure can work in concert to elevate a small-scale program into an expressive and memorable interior.

 

Design Philosophy

The design approach is defined by precision and visual permeability. Fluted glass panels and glass blocks – used both on the façade and within interior partitions – are employed to gently filter natural light, creating a softly illuminated environment that feels more expansive than its physical footprint. This controlled transparency enhances depth and atmosphere while ensuring privacy where required.

The façade is articulated as a striking composition of bold red steel framing, curved profiles, and translucent glass blocks, establishing a distinct and recognizable identity. A pivoting window allows the threshold to remain fluid and inviting, while an integrated outdoor bench extends the interior experience toward the street, fostering a dialogue between the studio and its urban context and offering a place for brief pauses by clients or passersby.

 

 

Functional Layout

The spatial layout is organized with clarity and efficiency. A primary wall accommodates a sequence of full-height mirrors and black styling chairs, positioned to maximize light reflection and maintain unobstructed circulation. Storage is seamlessly integrated through tall cabinetry and discreet product shelving, preserving a clean and orderly workspace. Throughout the interior, red accents are introduced as intentional focal points – from equipment details to the warm glow of lighting in the side room – echoing the exterior language and infusing vibrancy into the muted interior setting.

 

 

Material Palette

Within the interior, the material palette reinforces a sense of quiet confidence. Surfaces are finished in soft grey tones, forming a calm and cohesive envelope. An exposed cement ceiling introduces a raw, tactile quality that contrasts with the smoothness of the walls and mirrors, grounding the space while emphasizing its vertical dimension. This restrained backdrop is designed to support, rather than overpower, the daily activity of the studio.

Through the careful orchestration of materiality, structure, and light, a space is formed in which each element remains in constant dialogue with the others. Minimalism is balanced with character, precision with warmth, and efficiency with atmosphere. The result is a thoughtful interior that demonstrates how even the most compact spaces can be imbued with depth, identity, and a sense of calm refinement.

 

 

Playful light

The project concerned the renovation of a 70m² second-floor apartment near Lycabettus Hill. The design follows an open-plan layout, allowing natural light to penetrate deeply into the interior. To organize the unified space, emphasis was placed on transitional areas through the use of vibrant colors and textures. The kitchen was treated as an integrated piece of built-in furniture, while metal partitions and doors were designed to accommodate different living scenarios. Distinctive features of the 1970s apartment were preserved and complemented by more vibrant and industrial elements, resulting in a layered collage of materials.

 

Renovation Strategy

The primary intervention was the relocation of the kitchen in order to optimize the apartment’s spatial organization. In its original position, the kitchen obstructed the entrance, lacked visual and functional connection with the rest of the apartment, and suffered from insufficient light and limited size. Its relocation enabled the creation of an elongated entrance hallway and a generous, multifunctional storage element incorporating an entrance bench, wardrobe, washing machine, and general storage. The kitchen was conceived as a functional object rather than a separate room – integrated into the open plan and discreetly supporting everyday activities. It is directly connected to the dining area and positioned opposite the balcony door to benefit from improved natural light.

 

 

Functional Layout

The apartment is organized into three distinct zones. The first zone, comprising transitional spaces such as the hallway and storage areas, functions as a chromatic frame for the more restrained main spaces. A key intervention involved the removal of the wall separating the bedroom from the living area, revealing the building’s structural elements, including the central column and beams. In place of the original partition, a four-leaf metal door with fluted glass was introduced, referencing traditional wooden sliding partitions commonly found in Athenian apartments. The ribbed glass enhances the 1970s aesthetic while allowing light to diffuse throughout the space and providing privacy when needed.

 

 

Material Palette

The original mosaic floor, uncovered but heavily damaged by previous interventions, was replaced with turquoise tesserae tiles that enhance light reflection in these intermediate and darker areas. Birch veneer, selected for its expressive grain and warm yellow tones, was used for the woodwork, while the entrance threshold is defined by a burgundy accent.

The second zone includes the primary living spaces – living room, dining area, and bedroom – where the existing oak parquet flooring was repaired and retained. Other elements were designed to contrast with and emphasize the warmth of the wood, incorporating industrial finishes such as exposed concrete, metal elements (including sliding doors and shelving), glass, and chrome glossy details in lighting fixtures and hardware.

The third zone, encompassing the kitchen and bathroom, features Dionysos marble as the dominant material, a reference to materials already present in the apartment. In the kitchen, the marble was applied to both countertop and backsplash, creating vivid reflections that contrast with the matte off-white lacquered cabinetry. In the bathroom, 40×40 cm marble tiles were used to introduce a more playful interpretation of this timeless material.

 

Daily living

The overall approach conveys a contemporary residence of high aesthetic quality, where comfort, functionality, and materiality coexist in harmony, offering a living environment characterized by identity, calmness, and timeless value.

 

Design Philosophy

The apartment is located in the heart of Thessaloniki, on Palaion Patron Germanou Street. The new floor plan has been organized into distinct zones, responding to the everyday life of the family. A spacious common area, with direct access to the two openings on the main façade, accommodates a large kitchen with an island and dining area, along with a comfortable living room. A concealed bar and a small home office, flanked symmetrically by storage units for daily use, stand out for the character they add to the space.

Particular emphasis was placed on storage solutions, which were carefully designed both in terms of their external appearance and internal configuration, ensuring maximum spatial efficiency. The master bedroom includes a walk-in wardrobe, an additional workspace, and a private en-suite bathroom. Two children’s bedrooms and a larger shared bathroom complete the layout of the residence.

 

 

Custom Elements

Starting from the apartment’s existing morphology, a series of custom-built elements were designed to “dress” and resolve areas that required intervention. A characteristic example is the large structural beam that interrupted the open-plan space, which was reinterpreted as a coffered slab and seamlessly integrated into the overall composition. The decision to rely exclusively on custom-made furniture allowed for complete design freedom, without constraints in materials, dimensions, or standardized solutions, ensuring spatial coherence, functionality, and a unified aesthetic identity.

 

 

Materiality and Lighting

The combination of distinctive and diverse materials formed the core of the design concept, adding character and visual interest throughout the apartment while maintaining a balanced and harmonious result. Material transitions were used as a narrative tool, marking the passage from one space to another – such as the patterned tile in the entrance and hallway, which acts both as a clear threshold and as an introductory element to the living areas. Natural and artificial lighting were carefully studied to enhance textures and materials, while also shaping the appropriate atmosphere for everyday living.

 

 

Three design phases

The project focuses on the redesign of the living area, guided by the principle of preserving the existing floor plan to the greatest possible extent. The original layout comprised a clearly defined entrance hall and a closed kitchen, connected to the private quarters via a corridor. The main challenge lay in reorganizing the shared spaces to create a more open, functional, and contemporary environment, without compromising the apartment’s inherent character.

 

Functional Layout

The first phase of the intervention is defined by targeted, small-scale operations with a substantial spatial impact. The removal of the door leading to the private areas allows for the reconfiguration and functional enhancement of the kitchen. The demolition of the entrance hall partitions unifies the space and strengthens the spatial sequence from the entrance toward the living area. Simultaneously, the kitchen is directly linked to the dining and living zones, forming a continuous, open-plan environment for everyday life.

A defining feature of this phase is the introduction of sliding plywood partitions. Operating as a flexible spatial filter, they allow the kitchen to be visually and functionally concealed, when necessary, while adding material depth and warmth to the otherwise restrained, predominantly white interior.

 

 

Custom Elements

Following several years of inhabitation, the need for additional storage emerged in the form of a bookcase along the wall adjacent to the entrance. The proximity of the door to the private areas presented both a limitation and a design opportunity. In response, the second phase introduces a modular shelving system composed of three interconnected units of increasing scale. This gradual progression accommodates books of varying sizes, with the largest module positioned closest to the door.

Constructed from plywood and grey-blue Formica, the bookcase introduces a subtle chromatic accent while remaining consistent with the material language established in the first phase. The door, initially white and visually disruptive, is clad with vertical plywood strips, allowing it to dissolve into the overall composition.

 

 

Ancillary Spaces & Materials

A third phase of design and construction addresses the growing need for additional storage through an extension of the existing shelving system. The new intervention adheres to the proportions and formal logic of the original structure, while responding to the evolving functional requirements of the residents.

The extension integrates multiple functions: generous book shelving, enclosed storage, a dedicated area for removing and storing shoes upon entry, and a discreet arrangement of coat hooks. Rather than introducing a conventional wardrobe element, the design proposes a solution that maintains its spatial clarity and visual balance whether in use or left empty.

The seamless integration of the extension into the existing system is critical to the project’s success. Particular attention is given to the calibration of width and depth, ensuring continuity and coherence. The three central shelves of the new structure echo the proportions of the three sliding plywood partitions introduced in the first phase, establishing a subtle dialogue between different temporal layers of the project. A corner shelf acts as a connective element between old and new, while mobile plywood boxes on castors beneath the main shelves provide flexible and adaptable storage solutions.

 

Functional coexistence

Ergon Bakehouse operates simultaneously as a hotel, artisanal bakery, retail space, and restaurant – a multifaceted destination for gastronomy and hospitality in the historic center of Athens. It occupies a listed early-20th-century building designed by Vasilis Tsagris, where heritage architecture and contemporary use coexist in balance.

 

Design Philosophy

Originally housing residences and offices, with a commercial shop at ground level, the building stands as a representative example of classical Athenian architecture. Its architectural character has been carefully preserved, allowing the new design to integrate seamlessly with the existing fabric. Today, traces of both the building’s aesthetic and functional past remain visible, including plaster ornamentation, one of the original staircases, and the historic elevator. From the main entrance through to the guest rooms, the design narrative is guided by the life cycle of dough and the atmosphere of a traditional bakery.

The ground floor hosts the 72H Artisanal Bakery, where bread and baked goods are prepared and baked following a 72-hour resting process. A generous storefront draws visitors into three distinct zones: the retail area offering products for home baking, the cooking area, and the 72H Lab – the preparation space. Through existing openings, the open-plan workshop is fully visible, revealing processes that are typically concealed in conventional bakeries.

At the heart of the building lies the original entrance hall, which connects three key destinations: the retail shop and 72H Eatery, the hotel reception, and the waiting area. Vertical circulation is organized through two staircases and two elevators – one preserved from the original structure, and one newly introduced to meet contemporary circulation demands.

 

 

Functional Organization

Guest rooms are arranged across three floors, respecting the building’s original architectural layout and aligning with the existing façade openings that define their generous proportions. Each room reinterprets elements drawn from the world of the bakery and the professional kitchen. Dark firebrick surfaces, wall claddings, stainless steel worktops, and linen textiles come together to form a restrained yet tactile interior language.

Custom Elements & Lighting

Interior shutters were designed as an integrated blackout solution, fitted within the existing openings to modulate daylight and create a calm, intimate atmosphere. A defining feature of the rooms is the “ontas”, a multifunctional element that serves both as an additional sleeping surface and a place of rest – an architectural reference rooted in traditional Greek domestic spaces.

Lighting is intentionally minimal, precise, and atmospheric. A network of slender stainless-steel pipes runs throughout each room, supporting a variety of lighting applications. Due to structural reinforcements along the building’s perimeter walls, conventional cable routing was not possible. Instead, the piping system accommodates electrical wiring while simultaneously acting as a framework for lighting and textile suspension.

 

Spatial transitions

Set within the distinctive setting of the Astir Vouliagmeni Marina, Bagatelle Athens redefines the relationship between architecture, the natural environment, and cultural heritage. The elegance of the French Riviera meets the geometric harmony of Greek architecture, shaping a space that goes beyond visual impact to engage all the senses.

 

Design Philosophy

The restaurant is located in Building B of the commercial zone, drawing primary inspiration from the sculptural forms of the yachts moored in the marina. Echoing their language, the façades are articulated through curved and folded planes -inclined or vertical- formed in smooth, white, exposed concrete, conveying a sense of movement and fluid energy. The luxury and brilliance of the yachts inform the material palette, expressed through striking glossy canopies made of specially treated aluminum that frame the retail units, as well as green Tinos marble pilasters that define and separate them.

Bagatelle Athens is conceived not merely as an elegant dining venue, but as a layered architectural experience -a stage for life composed of sequences, transitions, and strong spatial narratives. Transition is a key compositional principle: visitors do not simply enter the space but move through a succession of scenes that gradually unfold the overall experience. The massing is fluid and multi-layered, allowing the space to be perceived alternately as a lounge, a theatrical setting, or a serene, sunlit deck.

 

 

Functional Organization

The various zones -including the entrance, bar, dining area, terrace, and relaxed lounge- are not divided by rigid boundaries, but are seamlessly connected through subtle transitions, changes in level, and carefully choreographed lighting. Natural light is allowed to penetrate and diffuse without overwhelming the space, while artificial lighting operates scenographically, creating pockets of warmth and intimacy. The overall spatial journey, from the entrance to the terrace, is designed as a sensory progression, where materials, light, and atmosphere invite visitors to explore the space gradually. The first level of the restaurant functions primarily as a transitional threshold.

 

 

Furniture & Materials

The cloakroom, bar, and intimate seating areas establish an atmosphere of calm and privacy. The central staircase, defined by its dynamic form, acts as an acoustic capsule, offering a gradual transition into the vibrant environment of the upper level. There, the dining space, shaped by sculptural forms and refined detailing, emerges as a dialogue between cosmopolitan sophistication and Mediterranean restraint. On the terrace, the 360-degree panoramic views and direct engagement with natural light reinforce the connection between the architecture and the Vouliagmeni landscape. The Lounge, more relaxed yet equally refined, completes the concept of “Bagatelle on a Boat.”

Materiality reflects a contemporary reinterpretation of Mediterranean aesthetics: natural oak, woven cane, ceramics, and earthy tones such as terracotta and olive green, complemented by patinated metal elements and subtle geometric motifs inspired by Greek antiquity. The color palette balances organic warmth with atmospheric elegance, incorporating Aegean blues, ochres, and metallic reflections reminiscent of sunset hues over the sea. Ultimately, the space distinguishes itself through its restraint and the deliberate absence of thematic excess.

 

 

Domestic origin

The new Daras Dental clinic in Piraeus challenges the conventions of a typical clinical environment, redefining it as a place of healing rather than discomfort. Bright surfaces, warm wooden tones, semi-transparent materials, and domestic details come together to soothe patients’ anxiety and create a more welcoming atmosphere.

 

Spatial Organization

Housed in a 1960s apartment building near the port, the 110 m² residence is transformed into a multi-dental clinic for three dentists and their staff. The original living–dining area is removed and replaced by a timber-and-glass module made of channel glass, accommodating the reception, office, CT scan room, waiting area, and the main treatment room. Two additional treatment rooms, the restrooms, and staff areas are organized within the apartment’s existing partitions.

Materials & Construction

The clinic’s identity emerges from the combination of wood and glass, blending the typologies of clinic and home. Rather than concealing the conversion, the design embraces the space’s domestic origins, fostering a sense of comfort. Contemporary details subtly reference the modernism of the 1960s – the decade in which the building was constructed.

 

 

Form & Lighting Design

Piraeus itself – the busiest passenger port in Europe and a gateway to the Aegean Sea – also served as a source of inspiration. Luminous glazed surfaces evoke the depths of the sea, while circular openings and finely crafted joinery recall the craftsmanship of yachts. A discreet mint-green floor bridges the clinical and nautical references. Above all, light animates the space: luminous ceilings provide a clean, fresh counterpoint to the more domestic service areas.

 

“Soul-specific” design

“An interior design project, even for a single apartment, carries with it the same complexity and responsibility as larger projects: it means interpreting desires, memories, and aspirations to transform them into space. It’s never about applying a pre-established model, but about building, step by step, a unique identity capable of generating quality of life. Each time, the result is different, surprising, and, to use a term from contemporary art, truly ‘soul-specific’.”

Pier Currà, Founder Pier Currà Architettura

 

Design Philosophy

Every corner of this apartment in the historic center of Forlì tells a story of creativity, color, and memory. The renovation transforms a 1960s home into a vibrant living space where a vintage soul meets contemporary pop accents, resulting in interiors that are both surprising and expressive.

 

 

Functional Layout

The double-height living room, flooded with natural light from a large window, forms the heart of the home. Morning light bounces off surfaces and details, enhancing the bold chromatic contrasts. The space is shaped by custom-made furniture that becomes architectural in itself: the striking orange staircase doubles as a sculptural bookcase, while the bespoke storage unit at the entrance acts as a visual and functional filter between the lowered hallway and the living area.

The kitchen celebrates color and craftsmanship. Entirely custom-designed, it is defined by deep blue cabinetry paired with a stainless-steel worktop. The flooring pays explicit homage to the 1970s through optical-patterned tiles, while a glass-brick wall filters light and introduces rhythmic geometric textures.

 

 

Materials & Furnishings

Throughout the apartment, interior design oscillates between memory and innovation. Original elements, such as the large window and the ceiling clad in exotic wood slats, have been carefully restored and enhanced, while bold color choices and bespoke furnishings create a cohesive narrative across the spaces. Pastel-toned bathrooms with cement tiles and red taps, a master bedroom distinguished by a custom burgundy wardrobe and white paneling, and an upper floor featuring a study that overlooks the living room and opens onto a balcony with a flower box, all contribute to a layered and imaginative domestic landscape. The result is a home that embraces its original identity while reinterpreting it with energy, personality, and lightness.

 

Contrasting shapes

On the main street of the Havana district -an area of particular interest for food and beverage venues- a new contemporary Italian trattoria takes shape, emphasizing a balanced dialogue between materiality and form.

 

Exterior Design & Layout

Along the sidewalk, the restaurant unfolds with its first outdoor dining area. During the summer months, the metal pergola opens, allowing the large plane trees lining the street to provide natural shade throughout the day, while leaving the sky visible at night. Perimeter planting functions as a natural filter from passersby and street traffic, complemented by marine plywood panels which, through their carefully considered design and placement, allow natural light to penetrate the space, casting dramatic shadows and creating a layered atmosphere.

The main dining hall coexists with the open kitchen, where a low counter in front of the chefs’ workspace enhances a sense of immediacy and informality -core principles of the design concept. Comfortable rosewood sofas are arranged along the perimeter, oriented toward the heart of the restaurant, the kitchen, evoking the feeling of a large communal living room. Tables for both small and larger groups are interspersed throughout the space. The existing central column, a dominant feature of the hall, is embraced by a custom-made marble table and serves as the structural base for a suspended metal planter.

Material Palette

The interior is clad with symmetrical perforated panels crafted from oak and rosewood, integrated with concealed lighting that bathes the space in warm wooden reflections. Upholstery fabrics draw inspiration from Italian elegance, both in their combinations and in the detailing of their stitching. Walls finished with hand-applied plaster gain luminosity from embedded, scattered mirrors, while material contrast is further reinforced by the use of construction planks on the floor and the brass cladding applied to all industrial stainless-steel kitchen equipment. Overall, the dialogue between raw materials -such as construction planks and plaster- and more refined ones -such as marble and brass- achieves a balance that reflects the spirit of the restaurant.

 

 

Morphology & Color Scheme

Circular elements and curves dominate the composition, both in plan and in the finer design details, from the shapes of tables and lighting fixtures to the perforations in the wooden wall panels. The circle is employed repetitively to establish a strong visual motif, while the square tile used in the preparation areas, combined with exposed green grout, was selected to introduce geometric contrast.

The color palette is led by green -featured on the entrance door, tables, selected walls, seating, and tile joints- and yellow, present in the sofas and the tones of the wood. These are complemented by brass accents, visible in elements such as the bar cladding and selected lighting fixtures.

 

Careful restoration

In the heart of Corso Italia in Milan, a small yet highly significant interior within Casa Sissa – a residential building by Gio Ponti and Emilio Lancia – has been given renewed life and purpose. The architecture of the residence balances Rationalist, eclectic, and Novecento elements, emblematic of Italian design of the period. The intervention addresses the theme of conservative restoration with philological rigor, while carefully accommodating new functions related to contemporary professional use.

 

Spatial Organization

The studio occupies a wing of the building facing Corso Italia. The plan is organized around an entrance hall equipped with full-height cabinetry, leading to a large, luminous open workspace. This is complemented by a more intimate meeting room overlooking the internal garden, a coffee area, a bathroom with an antechamber, and discreetly concealed technical zones. The original layout is respected throughout: double-leaf glazed doors, reconstructed after the loss of the originals, open onto the principal spaces, while smoked oak boiseries line the entrance, adding warmth and depth.

 

Material Palette

All design decisions stem from close engagement with the existing fabric. The original oak floors, laid in a herringbone pattern in the meeting room and in 40×40cm diamond-patterned parquet tiles in the work area, were carefully recovered, reassembled, and integrated where necessary to accommodate new technical systems. This rare flooring, discovered beneath later coverings, was restored with meticulous attention. In other areas, black cementine tiles imitating Belgian Black marble were retained; where suitable replacements could not be sourced, continuity was ensured through slabs of actual marble matched in tone and finish.

Wall surfaces were treated with an almost archaeological approach. Original 1930s plasters and decorative finishes, concealed beneath subsequent layers, were revealed, consolidated, and reintegrated where lacunae existed. In the meeting room, the green wall tone recalls the chromatic palette of the era. Windows, handles, and hinges were also restored: each metal element was dismantled, cleaned, and, in some cases, recast from molds, revealing the variety of original brass and iron finishes. Positioned between Modernism and Novecento taste, these details testify to a project in which elegance and technical precision intersect with material culture.

 

 

Furnishings & Restoration Practices

The built-in furnishings, entirely custom-designed, define functions with discretion. Storage units, consoles, and worktables in bleached ash articulate the space without interrupting the historical legibility of the interiors. The condominium entrance hall is conceived as an integral part of the project. Though still awaiting restoration, it preserves original wall cladding in Palissandro Blu marble – a rare Italian stone from Piedmont – laid in a diamond pattern, a motif echoed in the office flooring.

Other notable elements include the striped plaster ceiling, a recessed lamp beneath a marble bench, and a large, glazed window that floods the staircase with light, all poised between Novecento and Modernist sensibilities. The intervention stands as both an act of care toward the historic fabric and a clear declaration of method.

 

Urban energy

Located at one of the city’s most iconic and vibrant intersections, the project redefines the concept of fast food through a bold, design-driven approach that fuses contemporary aesthetics, urban energy, and the unmistakable identity of the brand.

 

Design Philosophy

More than a destination for burger lovers, the space unfolds as a modern, dynamic, and visually striking experience – one that mirrors the city’s pulse and vitality. It proposes a new way of engaging with urban life, where design meets flavor, community meets culture, and every visit becomes a celebration of Argentine identity expressed with confidence, attitude, and style.

 

 

Materials & Color

From the very first moment, the venue captivates with its lively yet welcoming atmosphere. Clean architectural lines, industrial materials softened by warm tones, and carefully curated lighting work together to accentuate textures and spatial depth. A generous glass façade invites passersby inside, revealing an open and spacious interior articulated through metallic finishes and the brand’s signature red accents, which energize the space with bold character.

 

 

Lighting & Signage

Lighting plays a central role in shaping the experience. Soft, diffused panels combined with golden neon highlights create an ambiance that is both urban and refined, echoing the rhythm of the surrounding streets. Every detail – from furniture and signage to graphic elements – contributes to a strong, contemporary, and cohesive identity, designed to deliver a memorable visual and sensory experience.

 

Sculptural retreat

The project reimagines an unused 70 m² space on the ground floor of a private villa, transforming it into a sculptural wine cellar and gym. The result is a raw yet refined interior, where craftsmanship and material expression elevate a once-neglected service area into a striking, atmospheric retreat.

 

Renovation Strategy

Previously sealed off, the space was challenged by irregular geometry, high humidity, and insufficient ventilation. The intervention began with comprehensive hydro-isolation works and the installation of a new ventilation system, establishing the conditions for a stable and controlled microclimate. Significant variations in floor levels, ranging from 1m to 2.5m, along with narrow corridors, were synthesized into a cohesive spatial strategy.

 

 

Design Philosophy

The design draws inspiration from ancient Greek theatres, where tiered seating generates depth and visual drama. This reference informed the project’s sculptural language, shaping the relationship between light, materiality, and elevation. The dynamic front composition accommodates the wine fridges and is clad in brushed, fire-treated solid wood, offering a rich, tactile surface. Along the perimeter, wine bottle storage is formed from exposed structural reinforcement bars – an approach echoed in the oxidized metal shelving designed for glassware.

 

 

Material Palette

Handcrafted elements play a central role in defining the atmosphere. The wine cellar unfolds in a palette of grey and amber tones, contrasted by Corten-effect metal sliding doors that discreetly conceal all technical equipment. At its core, a monolithic bar table carved from black lava stone anchors the space as a powerful focal point.

 

Spatial transparency

The calmness, transparency, and clarity of this project create an atmosphere of repose within the heterogeneous and burdened environment of the city and the apartment building.

 

Existing Layout

The apartment is located in an apartment building dating back to 1967, in Kolonaki. The typical floor plan of the period defined five distinct spaces: bedroom, living room, kitchen, bathroom, and entrance hall. A double-leaf sliding door between the bedroom and the living room unified, to a certain extent, the two main spaces, while all areas were connected through the hall. Under these conditions, the service zone of the entrance and wet areas was cut off from natural light and from views toward the exterior environment. The equal distribution of surface area between the two main spaces, along with their rigid boundaries, limited habitation to small rooms with restricted visual connections and natural light.

 

 

Spatial Organization

The new layout unifies all individual spaces of the apartment, retaining only the bathroom as a separate room. From the entrance, the city becomes visible through the balcony door and window, which are now aligned consecutively along the interior façade facing the street. Solid partition walls are replaced by perforated metal elements of slender sections, such as the bookcase that occupies the center of the plan, as well as by movable elements, including sliding and concealed doors, allowing natural light to diffuse throughout the space and visual connections to multiply. All new vertical surfaces -sliding partitions, metal bookcase, wardrobes, cabinets, and curtains- extend from floor to ceiling, unifying the space in section as well and creating hidden niches and storage areas.

 

 

Materials & Custom Structures

Each individual point of this small dwelling accommodates more than one activity. The kitchen worktop also functions as a dining table, while the desk doubles as a seat for gazing out of the window. During the day, the bed becomes part of the living area, while at night it is isolated within a quiet white sleeping box. The central metal structure has two faces, and the television, as part of it, rotates 180 degrees around a vertical pole.

The walls, ceiling, structures, movable partitions, and fittings are all white, aiming for homogeneity and clarity within a small space composed of multiple elements. A mirror surface, placed perpendicular to the exterior façade, expands the space, multiplies the opening of the balcony door, and reflects the city’s exterior into the interior.

 

 

The shelter of an imprisoned spirit

The project is a photography studio that goes beyond being a purely functional space, unfolding instead as a deeply introspective environment inspired by the concept of intrauterine habitation and prenatal comfort.

 

Design Philosophy

The design employs symbolic elements that convey warmth, protection, and a cocoon-like sense of enclosure, aiming to foster creativity within a calm and intimate atmosphere. Central to the concept is the interplay of light and shadow, a deliberate choice that reflects the photographer’s expertise and creative journey. The space becomes a sanctuary: a place where creativity can be nurtured and where personal and artistic paths intersect within a meaningful, womb-like environment.

 

 

Custom Structures

Specifically designed custom metal structures were developed for the studio, serving the organization and storage of equipment while playing a decisive role in enhancing the visual dynamics of the space. These restrained, reflective surfaces capture and modulate light, producing striking reflections that shift according to the time of day and the position of light sources. The use of metal fulfills both functional and aesthetic objectives, offering durable and practical solutions for everyday needs while contributing to the overall artistic atmosphere. As light interacts with these structures, it rebounds in unexpected ways, casting delicate patterns onto the surrounding walls and further emphasizing the play of light and shadow that lies at the core of the architectural composition.

 

 

Materials & Lighting

The selected materials achieve a subtle balance between opacity and translucency, reinforcing the relationship between light and darkness. This design approach not only enhances the spatial aesthetics but also alludes to an inner tension experienced by the photographer – described as a “prisoner of spirit,” engaged in an ongoing dialogue between light and shadow. This poetic tension is visually articulated through the thoughtful placement of windows, skylights, and lighting elements, creating layers of illumination that shift and transform throughout the day.

Both natural and artificial light play a crucial role in the studio, not merely as functional components but as expressive tools in their own right. The way light filters through the materials generates a meditative atmosphere that encourages reflection and the exploration of creative depth. Extending beyond pure utility, the design transforms the studio into a symbolic space that promotes deep, inward-looking creativity.

 

Work Container

The new offices are housed within an industrial shell of 1,200 m², where tall metal racks for cable storage dominate the space from floor to ceiling. The central design idea focuses on the strategic placement of “work containers” that accommodate the staff offices.

 

Corporate Identity & Design

The container form was chosen as a characteristic expression of the company’s industrial identity and environmental ethos. Just as the company’s products are designed to be fully recyclable, the container, originally used for their storage and transport, is repurposed and transformed into office space. Two distinct zones are created on either side of the central storage and packaging area to ensure the uninterrupted circulation of machinery and personnel.

 

 

Spatial Organization

On the west side of the building, the largest container is positioned to function as a customer waiting area and goods reception zone, along with a dispatch office, staff locker area, and archive. On the east side, a cluster of containers arranged across two levels accommodates the remaining needs of the administrative staff, positioned to ensure optimal visual connection with the production area.

On the ground floor of the eastern cluster are two sales offices, a dining room, staff restrooms, and storage. The upper level includes two offices, a meeting and presentation room, and additional storage space. Access to the offices is provided through two opposing entrances, with an internal metal staircase connecting the two floors.

 

 

Materials & Lighting

The material palette consists of metal, wood, and glass -materials commonly used in industrial environments. Metal and glass surfaces form the architectural volumes, while wood is applied in flooring and furniture to complement the construction. The exterior white and gray tones highlight the wooden finishes used inside.

Linear warm-white lighting follows the rectangular surfaces of the containers. Containers serve as a contemporary method of creating workspaces in facilities requiring direct proximity to production. With the appropriate configuration, they allow for efficient workflow while offering the possibility of expansion to meet a company’s future needs, without compromising the overall design.

 

Baroque reflections

Semiramis, owned by collector Dakis Joannou, belongs to a portfolio of unique hotels designed by internationally acclaimed designers. When it first opened in the early 2000s, Karim Rashid’s bold interior design caused a stir in Kifissia, challenging the prevailing suburban aesthetics. Over time, a series of renovations gradually disconnected the bar-restaurant from the hotel’s original identity. The new space, Koumkan, is once again woven into the DNA of Semiramis, reflecting contemporary cultural, gastronomic, and social trends of Athens.

 

Design Philosophy

Koumkan combines the singular identity of Semiramis with the timeless atmosphere of grand hotel lounges, reframed through a minimalist lens. By staging a sequence of distinct atmospheres, it creates a microcosm that encapsulates the character of iconic hotel reception spaces around the world. Visitors descend a travertine staircase toward a garden that is reflected in the mirrors cladding the wall.

A large revolving door leads into the Foyer, a soft pink reception space illuminated by gentle, diffuse lighting. Two symmetrically composed travertine slabs, framed by mirrors, articulate the notion of luxury through an emphatic gesture, highlighting the inherent value of an almost empty space. A concealed door opens to the Parlor, the first bar area, entirely clad in dark green Tinos marble. This stone -long considered inexpensive due to its irregular discolorations- is transformed into banquettes, a DJ booth, shelving, and a bar, as if all had been carved from a single monolith. The mirrored ceiling expands the space, while vintage stainless-steel sconces and a custom chandelier offer warm, indirect light.

 

 

Spatial Organization

The room, reminiscent of an underground chamber, has an enclosed atmosphere that juxtaposes raw materials with refined details. Beyond the Parlor, two corridors frame the Grande Salle, a lounge, cocktail bar, and restaurant defined by its kaleidoscopic atrium, lined with 7-meter-high mirrors. Custom pendant lights with reflectors create the effect of a disco ball turned inside out. Curved banquettes form boomerang-shaped arrangements that appear to float above a light pink coconut-fiber carpet.

Freestanding banquettes in the center become focal points, while the tables along the walls offer enhanced privacy. A “banana bar” in pink travertine emerges within the space, accentuating its dynamic curves. The aesthetic of the Grande Salle draws inspiration from the abstract paintings of British artist William Streng, characterized by dark and light fleshy tones in patterns resembling skin markings.

 

 

Materials & Furnishings

Custom fabrics dyed using traditional techniques and textured plaster finishes intensify the space’s raw character. The Grande Salle extends into the Grotto, a sheltered outdoor lounge that connects the interior to the pool area. This cave-like environment is formed through the use of local materials and handcrafted treatments.

The Grotto wraps around the curve of the pool, evoking tropical modernism and the architectural heritage of the West Coast. Walls of peach-toned terracotta and pastel pink travertine amplify the warm hue of the lighting, while the pool bar, shaped like an inverted ziggurat, complements the laid-back, elegant design. Its level sits slightly below the pool waterline, positioning the eye at swimmer height and staging an intriguing visual interplay alongside the social ambiance. Throughout the project, a blend of antiques, commissioned artworks, and custom furniture revives the retro-futuristic character of the original Semiramis.

Standout elements include chrome-plated stainless-steel chairs inspired by the 1950s Mediterranean Riviera style, oversized ceramics by Elina Vassilaki, and mirrors by Olga Miliaressi-Foka. The space also features works by emerging artists from the Joannou collection, such as Elli Ioannou’s black chairs and Alexandra Ndore’s provocative Mama Issues at the entrance. Koumkan preserves the spirit of an interwar bar in Milan or Vienna, replacing traditional décor with an idiosyncratic architectural approach. Its spatial layout -with multiple sequential rooms, reflective ceilings, and a contemporary baroque sensibility- creates a new destination in Athens for both visitors and locals.

 

Subdued atmosphere

The project was conceived as a calm, cohesive living environment where the interior reinforces a sense of clarity and visual ease.

 

Design Philosophy

The aim was to create a home that feels open and grounded, allowing the surrounding landscape to guide the mood of the interior spaces. The approach emphasizes clean lines, gentle transitions, and a subdued atmosphere that invites reflection and comfort.

The design strengthens the relationship between the house and its surroundings. The long terrace becomes an intermediary zone that blurs the boundaries between interior and exterior. Framed views, generous glazing, and thoughtful orientation ensure that the natural landscape remains an integral part of the living experience.

 

 

Functional Layout

The house unfolds along a linear circulation axis, with all primary rooms arranged in sequence. This layout supports intuitive movement while preserving visual continuity between the interior and the outdoors. Large openings frame the surrounding landscape, enabling natural light to define the spatial experience throughout the day.

All living functions are organized along a main corridor that connects the entrance area with the communal zones and private rooms. Each space is clearly defined yet visually linked, allowing for smooth transitions and unobstructed flow. The large terrace running the length of the house extends daily life outdoors and reinforces the connection with the garden.

 

 

Materials & Colors

The atmosphere is shaped by natural textures and a restrained palette of muted tones. Surfaces emphasize warmth and tactility, creating a sense of calm. The neutral composition provides a backdrop that allows art, light, and shadow to play an essential role in the perception of each space.

 

A vessel of life and play

And what if the home is not merely a protected and secure shelter, a “vessel of life,” as it has been described, but a space that generates a rich spectrum of sensory stimuli?

 

Design Philosophy

The project is conceived as an everyday living environment that nurtures the user’s experiential relationship with space. The composition aims to heighten sensory awareness and activate the “muscle of initiative,” establishing conditions that encourage participation, play, and spontaneous expression, not only for children, but for all residents. The home is organized as a flexible field of experiences, where movement, perception, and interaction form essential components of daily life.

 

 

Materials & Furnishings

Materiality and furnishing function as active agents of the architectural experience. Clear, legible geometries are selected, with alternating solids and voids reminiscent of spatial sorting games, encouraging exploration and continual discovery. Mirrored surfaces appear unexpectedly, expanding the perceived depth of the space, while glass panels and chalkboard surfaces act as canvases for everyday creative expression. Materials are chosen for their sensory qualities: variations in texture, temperature, and sheen create an environment that invites touch, observation, and interaction.

 

 

Lighting Design

Lighting operates as a fundamental tool for shaping the spatial narrative. Concealed artificial lighting, activated through automation systems, creates scenographic transitions and adapts to the users’ movements and needs. The interplay between light and materials enhances contrasts and surface qualities, generating tactile anticipation and new sensory cues. Large, shifting shadow projections trace the course of natural light throughout the day and the year, forming a poetic interpretation of time within the space. Thus, the home becomes not only a framework for contemporary living but also a stage for unique, lived experiences, especially for the youngest members of the household.

 

Well-being as design principle

The design of the pharmacy seeks to shape a spatial environment that surpasses the conventional association of pharmacies with clinical sterility. Its architectural approach is anchored in the concept of well-being, which serves as the project’s guiding design principle.

 

Design Philosophy

Inspired by the broader idea of living well, the composition develops through natural textures and warm tonalities, creating an atmosphere that is both inviting and human-oriented. This holistic view of health, embracing physical, psychological, and social dimensions, is translated into space through subtle references to nature, which act as the conceptual and aesthetic foundation of the project.

 

 

Spatial Layout

The 67 m² program is organized into two distinct zones: the main pharmacy and product-display area, and a sequence of auxiliary rooms including a workspace, kitchenette, restroom, and storage. At the core of the primary space, a low central island structures circulation while incorporating both display and storage functions. The service counter is aligned axially with the entrance, ensuring a direct visual connection and a seamless flow between interior and exterior. Perimeter shelving is arranged in precise geometric lines with integrated storage components, supporting both functional clarity and a clean visual identity.

 

 

Materials & Façade Design

The selected palette and color strategy aim to foster an atmosphere of warmth, familiarity, and calm. Soft green hues, neutral beige surfaces, transparent elements, and subtly textured finishes create a balanced dialogue throughout the space. Additional custom-designed furnishings – including the central island, the service counter, and seating pieces – follow a shared design language composed of a green base, a storage volume, and a wooden top, forming a cohesive functional ensemble.

The façade is defined by a green metal lattice divided into four panels that symbolically reference the form of herbal leaves, an aesthetic and conceptual nod to the natural origins of pharmaceutical products. Acting as both an expressive surface and a protective screen, the metal structure alludes to nature and the idea of wellness while providing the necessary security of the premises. By replacing the conventional shutter with a more organic gesture, the design allows the spatial narrative, one that connects health with balance, nature, and serenity, to be perceived even before entering the store.

 

Symbolic routes

The redesign of the interior of Minos Palace Resort aimed to create an experience that activates emotion and the senses, marking the transformation of a traditional hospitality space into a curated world of emotional, physical, and spiritual renewal.

 

Project Aim

Designed as a “place of well-being,” the project reflects the international shift toward a lifestyle model grounded in scientific principles and serving as the foundation of a comprehensive hospitality experience. The brief called for the redesign of the common areas and wellness spaces as immersive, safe environments for personal transformation.

The masterplan was implemented in two phases: first with the renovation of the lobby, restaurant, bar, and pool lounge, and later with the development of Nao, the emotional core of the resort. The design translated the journey of self-awareness into an architectural experience through open-air panoramas, serene interiors, and earthy tones that evoke calm.

Introducing an element of surprise into a historically strict, rectilinear building posed a significant challenge. Built in the 1980s, the resort presented substantial constraints: immovable structural columns and an outdated circulation logic. Breaking free from this rigid framework was both a technical challenge and an innovative ambition.

 

 

Design Philosophy

To achieve this, a design approach of flow and continuity was adopted, visually embodied by the spiral—the symbol of the resort. The spiral inspired organic lines, fluid pathways, and sculptural forms that dissolve static geometry and reflect the infinite movement of life and nature. Architecture thus becomes an evolving experience: a 360° environment that flows inward toward introspection and outward toward the sea.

A similarly decisive intervention was the redesign of the entrance. The original staircase was replaced with an extended ramp, while the reception level was lowered and brought into alignment with the exterior floor, allowing visitors to immediately connect with the horizon, architecture, and sea upon entry. The result is a moment of revelation where the boundaries between built and natural environments dissolve. Moreover, the Nao facilities are accessible to both the local community and the staff, promoting a culture of care and solidarity.

Service flow in the restaurant and bar was subtly optimized for greater efficiency and connectivity. Service points were strategically positioned to improve circulation, while the open kitchen enhances transparency and direct interaction with guests, creating a more experiential gastronomic encounter.

 

 

Vegetation & Materials

To balance minimalism with warmth, soft lighting, natural textures, and curved lines were incorporated, ensuring a design that is both sustainable and welcoming. Materials such as polished concrete, soft plaster, large glass surfaces, and custom metal structures were selected for reasons of sustainability and tactile experience. In the outdoor areas, the integration of water and fire required precise mechanical design to ensure both safety and elegance. Dense bamboo planting created natural sound barriers and visual privacy. Lighting followed the same intent: suspended lanterns and illuminated pathways enhance the sense of calm and immersion.

 

Historical stratification

The restoration of the listed building by E. Ziller and its transformation into a hotel offered an opportunity to examine the architectural dialogue between new and old. At the core of the design process was the question of how the new interior layer could be articulated with clarity against the pre-existing structure so that the historic elements would remain visually and conceptually prominent.

 

Renovation Strategy

A single gesture within the renovation encapsulates the overall design intent. On the second floor, along the perimeter of the gypsum ceiling decoration, the project’s conservator removed a small section of the later white paint to reveal a rectangular fragment of the original, richly coloured ceiling painting beneath. This intentional “witness” preserves both the authentic layer and the later intervention, making visible the shifting aesthetic preferences of the neoclassical home’s former inhabitants.

This carefully curated “peeling”, creates a momentary opening into the past, exposing successive historical layers with clarity. Across the entire project, the distinction between new and old was primarily expressed through two elements: the axial layout and the ceilings.

 

 

Functional Layout & Materials

The original plan organized the rooms axially, with tall double doors allowing them to interconnect. This configuration was carefully preserved, as was the fundamental rhythm of the rooms. New bathroom spaces were positioned alongside the axial circulation and were designed as freestanding boxes that do not touch the painted ceilings. Clad in mirror, they visually recede, doubling the perceived volume and reinforcing the separation between old and new.

Most rooms in the neoclassical building featured colored ceiling paintings of high artistic value, though many showed signs of age – repairs, cable routes, cracks, and areas where the lath-and-plaster substrate was exposed. The conservator restored the damaged sections by extending the original artwork in full, while deliberately maintaining a light patina acquired over time. Crucially, the aim was not to produce a flawless, freshly painted ceiling.

Finishes & Custom Elements

In other words, the intention was not to create the impression of a ceiling that could have been painted “yesterday,” as is common in some Byzantine church restorations. A similar conceptual reference to the neoclassical façade was made on the ground floor, within the hotel’s shared spaces. The façade, unusual in that it faces three streets, features a distinctive arcade, which inspired the arched configurations of the high-ceilinged interiors.

The preserved architectural elements guided the colour selection for each room. By taking cues from the ceiling artwork, the wall finishes were chosen accordingly, while contemporary furniture was introduced – pieces that do not attempt to replicate the past, but instead establish a respectful dialogue with the neoclassical shell.

 

 

Design equilibrium

Vibrant colors and textures converge to create an immersive living experience withing the apartment. Specifically, by blending lightness, functionality, and a contemporary approach to materials, the project celebrates creativity in every detail.

 

Design Philosophy

Occupying 97m2, the apartment distinguishes itself through a bold color palette and visual composition strategies that explore contrast, layered surfaces, and geometric forms. The result is an atmosphere that feels both dynamic and meticulously composed.

 

 

Spatial Organization

The social areas are seamlessly integrated, with subtle zoning achieved through ceiling color variations. The entrance features a white ceiling, while the living, dining, and kitchen spaces are unified under a green one – a visual transition that preserves openness while defining distinct functions. Organic, lightweight furnishings reinforce the apartment’s identity and contribute to an inviting, balanced ambiance. The layout harmonizes aesthetics with practicality, supporting everyday living while maintaining a sense of vibrancy and expression.

 

 

Material Palette

A dialogue between bold geometries, contemporary materials, and an emphasis on well-being establishes a refined balance between functionality and creative intent. The project embodies the essence of contemporary living, offering a fluid, expressive environment where comfort and design coexist in equilibrium.

 

Sensory design

The 100 m² residence occupies the sixth floor of a typical 1960s apartment building in central Athens, enjoying unobstructed views toward Mount Hymettus.

 

Renovation Strategy

Originally, the apartment consisted of a living–dining area, hall, enclosed kitchen, and two small bedrooms sharing a single bathroom. During the renovation, the internal partitions were removed to reposition the main living area at the front, allowing it to fully benefit from the eastern light of the building’s primary façade. The two bedrooms were reconfigured to include en-suite bathrooms, while the internal stair leading to the rooftop was relocated to the hall, providing direct and more functional access from the entrance.

 

 

Functional Organization

The interior is conceived as a composition of reflections and subtle transitions. The design aims both to expand the perceived scale of the space, creating visual depth, and to establish a dynamic environment shaped by the shifting qualities of natural light and the mirrored presence of the city. Large sections of the walls are clad in translucent mirrors to create a seamless visual connection between inside and outside, while colored or metallic glass surfaces further reinforce this spatial continuity.

To mark the transition into the private zones (the bedrooms) the rear part of the apartment adopts a calmer rhythm, with a softer palette and minimal, discreet furnishings, creating a space that absorbs the noise of the city and encourages a sense of retreat.

 

 

Material Palette

The original wooden flooring was replaced with wide, matte-finished oak planks, while the bedrooms were fitted with off-white carpeting. Dark-stained oak defines the cabinetry and built-in elements of the shared areas, complemented by matte and glossy beige lacquered surfaces in the more private rooms. Grey-brown marble and textiles in varied textures were chosen for the living room and kitchen, whereas beige and off-white marble and soft fabrics characterize the bedrooms and bathrooms. Smooth beige plaster covers all interior walls, bringing visual unity throughout the apartment. Ceramic, metallic accessories and colorful lighting fixtures serve as subtle accents that complete the overall atmosphere.

Through its sensory approach, engaging sight, touch, and sound, the redesign seeks to cultivate a more profound and enduring connection between the home and the ever-changing urban context in which it exists.

 

Historical continuity

The traditional guesthouse occupies one of the most iconic buildings in the Old Town of Chania, dating back to the late 16th or early 17th century. The structure has been meticulously restored to preserve and showcase its historical character. Distinguished by the original stone columns on its façade, Aisha exudes a unique charm, specifically a refined blend of architectural influences that narrates the rich history of the area.

 

Functional Layout

The hotel features seven suites, five on the ground floor and two on the upper level, each named after the original function of the space in the historic building. The new layout embraces natural materials such as stone, wood, marble, and metal, while an earthy, neutral palette ensures a sense of warmth and luminosity. The design philosophy is rooted in the harmonious coexistence of old and new, aiming to evoke a subtle sense of nostalgia while offering contemporary comfort and elegance.

 

Adaptive Reuse Strategy

In keeping with this vision, several materials discovered on-site were carefully restored and repurposed, including the traditional cement tiles of the courtyard and a marble sink transformed into a washbasin. Original features, such as the wooden tsatmas (partition wall) along the first-floor corridor, the old fireplace in the “Fournos” suite, and the stone washing basin, also adapted into a washbasin, were reconstructed and preserved in their authentic form. The restoration process was carried out in close collaboration with local craftsmen, whose artistry and technical knowledge played a vital role in reviving the building’s historic essence.

 

 

Design Philosophy

The overall design strikes a delicate balance between contrasts, creating an atmosphere that feels simultaneously warm, authentic, and inviting. Every detail, from furniture and materials to decorative accents, has been thoughtfully selected to ensure a cohesive spatial narrative that encourages relaxation and a connection to the past. The intention behind Aisha Hotel is to offer guests a truly distinctive stay, immersed in the timeless beauty and tradition of Chania’s Old Town.

 

Strict geometries

Lucky No 5 is an espresso and aperitivo bar housed within a two-story building. Situated in the heart of the city, the project reimagines the urban bar as a space that breaks from convention, merging industrial rawness with a vivid pop sensibility. The result is an interior that feels both authentic and playful – a setting where everyday ritual meets expressive design. The concept sought to create a venue with a distinctly urban character, defined by strict lines, essential geometries, and an absence of decorative excess. The aesthetic draws from industrial influences infused with pop-inspired energy, resulting in a space that is direct, structured, and visually engaging.

 

Design Philosophy

Within the 38m² ground floor, the layout was carefully organized to accommodate the main bar, the product preparation zone, and a compact support area for production. The first floor, spanning 25m², houses the restroom and an additional open space. Located at the corner of a narrow urban arcade, the bar fully embraces its distinctive position. Large window frames and a continuous counter dissolve the boundary between interior and exterior, inviting guests to sit comfortably both inside and along the façade. This gesture transforms the small footprint into an open, fluid environment, extending the café-bar’s atmosphere into the public realm and creating a lively interaction between the sheltered arcade and the vibrant interior.

 

 

Spatial Organization

At the heart of the composition lies the bar, the social and visual nucleus of the space. Its green metal base and crisp, minimal surfaces convey strength and precision, while slender blue stools with circular seats introduce a light, playful rhythm. Behind the counter, open deep-blue shelving integrates functional elements – glasses, tools, ingredients – into the visual identity of the bar, blending utility and design.

Lighting defines the atmosphere and transitions of the space. Linear fixtures accentuate the exposed industrial ceiling, while spherical wall lamps soften the mood with a theatrical note. A violet LED strip behind the bar adds depth and a subtle club-like character, allowing the ambiance to evolve fluidly from daytime espresso bar to nighttime aperitivo lounge.

 

 

Branding & Materials

Light blue metal chairs and tables echo the cheerful tones of the interior, while a striped orange-and-blue awning lends the façade a recognizable, upbeat identity. Illuminated signage above the entrance and the violet glow emanating from within draw attention to the energy of the space. Upon entry, the eye is immediately caught by the bold three-dimensional signage on the mezzanine; more than a branding element, it serves as an architectural centerpiece and a defining visual landmark.

The material palette is guided by contrast. Exposed concrete and worn plaster reveal the building’s history, forming a raw, industrial backdrop that lets color and light take prominence. The terrazzo-style flooring introduces subtle texture and resilience, balancing the intensity of the surrounding hues. Together, these elements establish a dialogue between permanence and playfulness.

Green, blue, and orange dominate the space’s chromatic identity. These vibrant tones infuse the space with pop dynamism, while the neutral terrazzo flooring and raw architectural surfaces maintain visual balance. This interplay of opposites – industrial honesty and pop exuberance – shapes a bar that is more than a place for coffee or cocktails. It becomes a design experience: a microcosm where structure meets spontaneity, precision meets play, and urban authenticity finds expression in color and light.

 

Sequential experience

The project explores the relationship between architecture, craftsmanship, and the experiential dimension of space, moving beyond mere composition or addition. The design unfolds beneath a sequence of vaulted ceilings that define the atmosphere of each room while uniting them into a continuous whole. Instead of dividing the interior, these curved forms guide the gaze, extend perspectives, and introduce a sense of lightness and fluidity throughout the space.

 

Layout Organization

Central to the spatial concept is a piece of custom-designed fixed furniture, conceived as both a storage element and an architectural device. It traces a continuous path from the entrance through the living area and onward to the private quarters, establishing a seamless spatial narrative. This uninterrupted flow organizes the domestic landscape with clarity and coherence, allowing functions to transition naturally while maintaining visual and physical continuity.

 

 

Material Palette

The material selection emphasizes natural refinement and balance. Marble introduces depth and variation through its texture and veining, while its dialogue with warm wood tones and soft light generates subtle contrasts. These interactions enhance the character of each space, reinforcing its identity without overpowering the overall harmony of the interior.

 

 

Custom Structures

Craftsmanship permeates every aspect of the project. Meticulously executed joinery adds warmth and tactility, complementing the apartment’s precise geometries. Ornamentation is deliberately restrained, replaced instead by a disciplined language of proportion, clarity, and material authenticity. By aligning spatial rhythm with artisanal precision, the design achieves a luminous and coherent domestic environment – an apartment that embodies both the rigor of architectural design and the sensitivity of handcrafted creation.

 

Natural line

Overall, the project proposes an architectural language that is minimal yet expressive, where form, materiality, and light engage in dialogue to shape a holistic experience that transcends commercial function and highlights the space as a bearer of aesthetic and semantic value.

 

Design Philosophy

The store’s design is based on the curve, as a reference to the natural line of the female body. The space’s flow and the organic forms in earthy tones – with microcement as the dominant material – shaped a clean, unified, and minimal aesthetic result. This simplicity of lines and the selected materiality simultaneously function as a backdrop, highlight the garments as protagonists, and offer visitors an experience of calm, elegance, and aesthetic continuity.

 

 

Spatial Organization

The compositional intent relies on shaping a spatial shell where curves operate not merely as decorative elements but as tools for organizing movement and prioritizing sightlines. The integration of lighting, natural and artificial, was approached as an architectural medium that reveals textures, intensifies the plasticity of surfaces, and defines different atmospheres during the visit.

 

 

 

Material Palette

The materiality of microcement, combined with a warm palette of tones, establishes a sense of monolithic character while simultaneously maintaining the softness and fluidity required by the space’s concept. Through this balance, the store’s architecture does not function simply as a backdrop for the exhibits but as a spatial narrative in which the visitor’s body becomes part of the compositional process.

 

Urban cavern

Building upon post-pandemic public health concerns, the project redefines residential living by emphasizing spatial openness, air circulation, and natural light. The aim was to create a home that offers both protection and psychological relief, combining the solidity of a cavern with the warmth and tactility of natural materials. This approach reconsiders how urban apartments can balance seclusion and connectivity within dense city environments.

 

Design Philosophy

Situated in the dense urban context of Taipei, the apartment becomes a microcosm of retreat within the city. Natural light enters through filtered openings, while ventilation paths ensure fresh air circulation throughout the interior. The project embodies the notion of balance between protection and exposure, redefining how urban residences can nurture both physical and emotional well-being.

 

 

Spatial Organization

The residence is organized as a continuous flowing space where boundaries between rooms dissolve. Curved walls and interconnected volumes encourage natural movement and visual continuity. The central living area acts as the core, connecting secondary spaces such as the kitchen, dining area, and bedrooms. Through this fluid organization, the apartment achieves both privacy and openness without relying on rigid partitions.

Each functional zone was designed to respond to daily rituals while maintaining flexibility. The living area, dining, and kitchen form an interconnected communal zone, while private areas are subtly defined through level changes and lighting. Hidden storage systems and integrated furniture enhance efficiency without visual distraction. Underfloor heating and acoustic treatments improve comfort and environmental quality.

 

 

Material Palette

A restrained selection of materials defines the project’s sensory experience. Smooth plaster surfaces, terrazzo flooring, and curved joinery create a continuous tactile flow. Stone, timber, and bronze accents contrast with soft fabrics and diffused lighting. This material palette reinforces the idea of an ‘urban cavern’ – a sanctuary shaped by texture, reflection, and silence.

 

Natural textures

The project introduces a new architectural paradigm within the realm of luxury retail. The space functions not merely as a point of sale but – through meticulously detailed design – as a complete spatial experience that celebrates minimalism through the refined elegance of natural materials.

 

Material & Color Palette

At the core of the store’s identity lies the use of natural materials, with luxurious onyx stone in green and blue tones as the dominant element. Wall claddings, countertops, and display plinths form a framework of understated luxury with an earthy character, while light reflections on the surfaces reveal their natural depth and texture.

The warm color palette serves as a calm backdrop, allowing the garments to take center stage. The restrained aesthetic is enhanced by clean lines and geometric clarity, enabling effortless movement and a sense of freedom. Floating shelves and stainless-steel structures emphasize lightness, while mirrors with golden frames introduce a subtle radiance and expand the spatial perception.

 

 

Lighting Design

Lighting design, with warm 3000 Kelvin tones, creates an atmosphere of intimacy, highlighting the fabrics’ textures with precision. Through carefully defined zones, light directs the visitors’ flow, accentuating both products and architectural features. High-CRI fixtures ensure accurate color and material rendering, reinforcing the sense of quality throughout the space.

 

 

Custom Elements

As an unexpected touch, the fitting rooms deviate from the dominant palette, adopting a soft green hue that evokes warmth and privacy while maintaining harmony with the store’s natural character. This contrast adds visual interest and functions as a spatial threshold that enriches the visitor’s experience. The design demonstrates that minimalism – when paired with natural materials and refined detailing – can become synonymous with luxury. A space that transcends the act of consumption and transforms into a complete design experience, where fashion and architecture coexist in perfect balance.

 

Calm minimalism

Located within a residential complex in Chalandri -comprising two identical buildings with a shared multi-purpose ground floor area designed by architect Ioannis Vikelas in 1972- the apartment retained the essence of its original layout, even as its interior was reimagined.

 

Renovation Strategy

To accommodate the modern lifestyle of the owners, most of the interior partitions were removed and replaced with new configurations. However, the design aimed to preserve the logic of the original plan. The apartment’s core remains the central hall that connects the entrance with the living and dining areas, while the rest of the spaces are organized symmetrically on either side. The bedrooms and bathroom occupy the north-facing side, while the kitchen, WC, and utility room are positioned to the south.

The existing hallway was slightly narrowed and transformed into a corridor, with the reclaimed space used to introduce new storage areas, built-in wardrobes, and entrance furniture with integrated seating, as well as a WC. On the southern side, the former service room was removed to expand the kitchen, creating space for a coffee area and dining nook. The bedroom wing was redesigned to provide each room with its own bathroom, built-in storage, and either a desk or a dressing table.

 

 

Spatial Layout & Lighting

One of the apartment’s greatest assets is its sense of openness and light. The living and dining areas are bright and airy, with dual orientation -north and south- and balconies on both sides enhancing cross-ventilation. The kitchen, illuminated by southern light, creates a welcoming first impression as it opens directly onto the hallway. Conversely, a small intermediate hall separates the private quarters from the common areas, ensuring privacy and a sense of retreat.

 

 

Materials & Custom Design

The aesthetic direction focused on calm minimalism, achieved through a consistent palette and discreet detailing. Built-in wardrobes, concealed doors, and custom carpentry were all finished in an off-white tone matching the walls, creating a seamless visual flow. Oak wood was selectively used in elements meant to stand out -the kitchen island and coffee bar, entrance furniture, and main door- adding warmth and texture.

Light oak laminate flooring unifies the apartment, excluding the bathrooms, which feature tiles suited to each room’s character. In the kitchen, beige quartz complements the earthy palette, while the master suite continues this calm atmosphere with travertine-look tiles. The second bedroom introduces contrast through deep blue accents in both the woodwork and bathroom finishes. Glass bricks were incorporated into the bathrooms and WC to bring natural light into these windowless spaces. Finally, gently curved walls replace sharp corners, softening the overall geometry and enhancing the apartment’s serene, cohesive atmosphere.

 

Pure hierarchy

The project reflects an approach focused on redefining interior space through the subtle interplay of geometry, proportion, and material. The concept emerged from the need to reconfigure an existing apartment into a contemporary living environment that combines warmth, precision, and flexibility. Attention to detail guided every stage of the process, from spatial planning to the selection of textures and colors.

 

Design Philosophy

The apartment’s layout was redesigned to establish fluid connections between areas while maintaining a sense of privacy where needed. Walls were repositioned to optimize circulation and to allow natural light to permeate deeper into the space. Transitions between rooms were carefully considered to create a continuous flow that enhances the perception of openness.

 

 

Spatial Organization

The program is organized around a clear hierarchy of spaces. Public areas such as the living room, kitchen, and dining zone are visually connected, forming a coherent ensemble for daily activities. Private areas, including the bedrooms and bathrooms, are strategically separated to provide comfort and intimacy. Every element, from furniture placement to lighting, was designed to promote functional clarity.

 

 

Material Palette

Red birch wood plays a central role in defining the character of the apartment, adding depth and warmth to the minimal composition. Its natural grain and color variations create a visual rhythm that contrasts with neutral surfaces and fine details. Stone, metal, and light were integrated as complementary elements, emphasizing craftsmanship and tactile quality.

 

Colorful route

The Happy Tooth pediatric dental clinic occupies a 230 m² space on the third floor of an office building in Voula.

 

Design Philosophy

The central design idea was to create a welcoming and playful environment that reduces children’s anxiety, while at the same time conveying professionalism and functionality for the medical staff.

 

 

Spatial Organization

The layout was organized around a central corridor that connects the reception, waiting areas, and examination rooms. Spaces are arranged to allow direct access while clearly separating public and private functions. Treatment and examination rooms were designed with both children’s comfort and dentist ergonomics in mind. The use of colors and playful elements contributes to creating a positive experience for young visitors.

 

Material Palette

The choice of materials focused on durable and child-friendly surfaces. Wood, warm colors, and textures were combined with modern elements to create an environment that balances familiarity with hygiene and safety. The clinic takes advantage of its third-floor location to allow natural light to flood the interiors. The views toward the city create a sense of openness, while the interior layout reinforces feelings of calmness and protection.

 

Undoing typologies

The project concerns the renovation and expansion of a dental clinic, aimed at accommodating a greater number of patients. The clinic’s original area was 60m², while the final surface now reaches 85m².

 

Design Philosophy

The main concept was to create a space that conveys cleanliness, while simultaneously breaking the mold of typical medical spaces, as medical advancement should now be in harmony with architecture. The clinic features a comfortable waiting area, the central element of which is an oak table that visually extends into the office space and transforms into a workstation for the doctor. Vertical wooden elements frame the waiting area, with the wooden screens standing out as their arrangement subtly guides patients towards the examination rooms.

 

 

Spatial Organization

The office is enclosed by glass, designed with custom delicate vertical lines that ensure privacy while allowing light beams to enter, giving the impression of a constantly transforming space. Directly next to the office is the entrance to Examination Room 2, which is also internally connected to Examination Room 1 via a sliding door. For Examination Room 1, which was the new addition, a construction of vertical slats extends up to the ceiling, with dimmable LED strips placed in between at varying heights. This way, the patient’s experience -typically oriented toward the ceiling- changes radically.

 

Material Palette

The materials and tones used throughout, such as gray tiling and white-painted walls, play the most important role, as they allow continuous light reflection, resulting in a timeless space that radiates cleanliness.

 

Materiality as narration

The architecture does not seek to dominate the landscape but rather to integrate into it with discretion. Volumes and openings adapt to the natural slope of the land, while planting complements and unifies the composition. The result is an architecture where living is experienced as an extension of the landscape, embracing both nature and the site’s inherent spirituality.

 

Design Philosophy

The project’s architectural approach was guided by the power of simplicity and the preservation of the site’s memory. The intervention sought to respect the authenticity of the monastic character, emphasizing spirituality and tranquility. The design philosophy embraced principles of minimalism, shaping a space that encourages silence, focus, and inner exploration. The decision to maintain clean lines and restraint was not merely aesthetic but a deliberate strategy that emphasizes the essence of architecture.

 

 

Spatial Organization

The spatial organization drew from monastic typologies, with clear functional axes that connect the main areas. Circulation was carefully choreographed to guide visitors through a gradual sequence of revelations, moving from public to private realms. Openings were positioned to frame views of the Leros landscape, enhancing the relationship with light and the sea. This arrangement establishes a harmonious dialogue between inside and outside, where the architectural shell acts as both frame and threshold.

The interiors were designed to support multiple uses without losing a sense of unity. The main gathering space serves as a central point of hospitality, while private areas preserve the sense of retreat. Transitions between spaces were designed to be fluid, supporting the visitor’s journey -from collective engagement to moments of solitude. Architecture here operates as a backdrop for life, allowing occupants to experience the place with flexibility and authenticity.

 

 

Material Palette

Material selection was guided by a strategy of balance between the old and the new. Stone walls were preserved and restored to highlight the building’s authenticity, while new insertions were made in wood, metal, and exposed concrete. Natural tones and textures enhance the sense of grounding and create an atmosphere of serenity. Materiality functions as a narrative tool, where each element carries the memory of place and bridges past with present.

 

Pure brickwork

The residence unfolds beneath the generous canopy of a leafy São Paulo neighborhood near Parque Ibirapuera. Designed for a family that values openness and an abundance of natural light, the 560m² residence reflects a philosophy rooted in harmony with nature and sustainable living.

 

Design Philosophy

Instead of demolishing the existing structure, the project sought to preserve and reinterpret it -reducing environmental impact while honoring architectural memory. This approach resonates with the owners’ longstanding commitment to environmental protection and animal welfare, turning the residence into both a home and a statement of values. The proximity to Parque Ibirapuera reinforces the home’s connection to urban vegetation. Existing trees were preserved, new tropical species were introduced, and the landscape was designed as a seamless extension of the architecture -transforming the house into a tranquil urban refuge.

The residence respects both the physical and cultural context of the neighborhood. The design retains original proportions and openings, subtly integrating contemporary interventions with restraint. The result is a home that enhances aesthetics and functionality without erasing its identity. By preserving the essence of the existing building and complementing it with modern architectural gestures, the project achieves a balance between conservation and innovation.

 

 

Functional Layout

The residence is organized across two volumes: a primary two-story block at the front of the lot and a secondary annex at the rear. A central courtyard connects them physically and visually, encouraging cross-ventilation and strengthening the dialogue with the garden. The annex accommodates an office and service areas on the ground floor, while the upper level houses a private guest suite, offering both comfort and seclusion. Inside the main volume, fluid social spaces promote interaction and continuity. The ground floor features luminous interiors where large, glazed openings and strategically placed skylights flood the home with daylight. A sculptural staircase commands attention at the core, guiding the eye and circulation upward.

The kitchen, dining, and gourmet areas align along a shared axis. Designed with flexibility in mind, the kitchen comprises two zones: a social area with a dining counter and a separate technical area for preparation, connected by a sliding door. The living room is defined by poetic lighting effects -circular ceiling apertures filter daylight softly, while a central fireplace anchors the space. Upper floors host the private and leisure areas. Three bedrooms occupy the first level, while the rooftop is dedicated to contemplation and relaxation. The home theater and game room extend the social atmosphere, combining daylight and intimacy.

 

 

Material Palette

The primary volume is clad in white-painted brick, evoking purity and timelessness. At key points, this brickwork continues indoors, reinforcing the dialogue between past and present. Warmth is introduced through wood details -seen in the entrance door, façade windows, rear deck, and interior millwork- that harmonize with the lush greenery.

Inside, a unified palette of monolithic flooring, stucco walls, and neutral brick details enhances spatial continuity and amplifies natural light. Bathrooms follow a similar clarity, combining terrazzo or stone floors and countertops with off-white tiles and wooden cabinetry. Furniture selections celebrate icons of modern and contemporary design. Together, these pieces curate an atmosphere of refinement, comfort, and timeless style.

 

Contrast and rhythm

The project is conceived as an immersive architectural project where experience and brand power converge. The ambition is to create not just an educational space for hair styling but a symbolic environment that reflects the values and identity of the company. Architecture here becomes a strategic tool, reinforcing brand presence through atmosphere, materiality, and spatial sequencing. The concept transforms education into a lived experience, highlighting the inseparability of design and identity.

 

Spatial Organization

The academy unfolds as a carefully structured environment where circulation, orientation, and visibility are designed to enhance engagement. Spaces are distributed to encourage interaction and participation, offering visual continuity between different programs. The sequence of spaces guides users through a journey, framing each moment as part of a narrative that communicates the brand’s values.

The building accommodates diverse functions: classrooms, laboratories, exhibition spaces, and gathering areas. Each program is integrated within a continuous flow, ensuring that learning, experimentation, and interaction coexist. The flexible layout allows for adaptation to different activities, supporting both individual focus and collective experience. Social spaces are interwoven with educational ones, reinforcing the sense of community.

 

 

Material Palette

The material palette was chosen to reinforce the immersive character of the project. Textures, colors, and finishes create atmospheres that resonate with the brand’s aesthetic language. Concrete, wood, glass, and lighting are used strategically to generate contrast and rhythm, enhancing both intimacy and monumentality within the academy.

 

 

Context Integration

Located in São Paulo, the Truss Academy is deeply connected to its urban and cultural setting. The project embraces the city’s energy and integrates it into an environment of learning and creativity. By merging architecture with brand identity, the academy becomes a landmark not only for the company but also for the city, demonstrating how design can shape cultural and educational presence in an urban context.

 

Spatial experiment

The project reflects Shanghai’s evolving urban culture. By creating a curated immersive environment, the café acts as both a neighborhood gathering place and a statement of global coffee culture. It connects the local context with international design trends, enriching the city’s cultural fabric.

 

Design Philosophy

The project was conceived as a commercial space that transcends traditional functions. Instead of a conventional café, it represents an immersive curatorial experience, where design, commerce, and community intertwine. The design emphasizes a new urban lifestyle -open, experimental, and centered around creative exchange.

The original building’s spacious design and rugged industrial features offered both challenges and opportunities for the project. Instead of using traditional walls, the design features low, wooden walls and modular display racks to create a space that feels both open and organized. The plant installations at the entrance and the creative exhibition square blend together, marking the start of the commercial transformation while also telling a cultural story. The space is designed to grow organically: the modular racks can be rearranged to update product displays, and the central area can be quickly changed into a conference or event space by moving the coffee cart and adjusting the seating. This flexibility is key to balancing the space’s function and aesthetic appeal.

 

 

Spatial Organization

The spatial concept blends circulation, display, and social interaction. Multiple levels of platforms and corridors connect seamlessly, allowing people to experience the café dynamically from different perspectives. The arrangement encourages movement, interaction, and exploration, making the space part café, part gallery, part social hub. Zones for coffee, exhibition, and creative workshops are integrated within a single cohesive narrative. Flexible furniture and modular installations allow the space to adapt to different events and activities. The functional design ensures both day-to-day café operation and the potential to host curated events or art showcases.

 

 

Material Palette & Sustainability

Natural textures like wood, stone, and metal are layered with experimental finishes. Contrasts of raw and refined materials reflect the blend of commerce and creativity. Lighting plays a key role, highlighting architectural gestures while shaping intimate atmospheres. Finally, the modular display systems and flexible plant arrangements make the space adaptable to seasonal changes, events, and the natural rhythms of the plants. This method goes beyond traditional design, giving the space the ability to adjust and stay lively. It’s sustainable not only because it uses natural elements to save energy, but because the design allows commercial activities to blend with the space’s natural flow.

 

Framing the City

The space is comprised of continuous visual transitions, standing at the threshold between nature and culture.

 

Design Philosophy

“In the beginning, there was… the view,” echoing the words of Hesiod. A singular, breathtaking panorama unfolds -the urban tapestry of Thessaloniki merging with the Thermaic Gulf. In contrast, a landscape of dwarf conifers, blooming native shrubs, and natural stones composes a vivid, crafted natural scene. In medias res -in between- emerges a residence of simplicity, designed to frame the visual experience of these two (non)limits.

 

 

Spatial Organization

A central box-shaped piece of furniture defines the residence (entrance, living room, kitchen, utility room) without strict limits, guiding circulation and creating targeted ‘windows’ to view the (non)limits. In parallel, an interplay of absence and solid material, combined with a ‘non finito’ metal grid, forms a ‘memory wall’ in the living room. Here, travel memories are displayed, creating a sensory connection with the past. Finally, a desk with dual use -as workspace and seat- offers views of sunsets over Mount Olympus, enhancing the experience.

 

 

Material Palette

Contrasts of absence and materiality, along with the metal grid, create atmosphere. Mirror surfaces add shifting perspectives, making reflections vanish as users leave, returning the view as the final image. The design frames the duality of natural and urban landscapes, embedding the panoramic view as the essence of inhabitation.

 

Athenian Patchwork

This duality -restrained elegance meeting bursts of energy- makes the home both timeless and full of personality, seamlessly woven into the fabric of Athens while remaining a deeply personal retreat.

 

Design Philosophy

SItuated in the dynamic neighborhood of Pagkrati, this renovation is an exercise in balance -between refinement and vibrancy, subtlety and expression, quiet backdrops and bold statements. Designed for a young family of three, the home adapts to its inhabitants, allowing them to shape their space while embracing moments of architectural playfulness.

 

 

Spatial Organization

The main living spaces are kept deliberately understated, their muted material palette and clean lines forming a canvas for personal expression. Signature furniture pieces find their place alongside a growing collection of paintings and sculptures. These spaces are meant to be lived in, evolving over time as layers of objects and memories accumulate.

 

 

Custom Structures & Materials

In contrast, the terraces, kitchen, and bathrooms take a bolder stance. The terraces, in particular, embody the extroverted character of Athens, where life spills effortlessly between indoors and out. A perforated yellow staircase zigzags upward, a ciel blue BBQ anchors gatherings, red-tiled benches invite conversation, and colorful outdoor furniture completes the collage -an architectural nod to the city’s patchwork of balconies and rooftop additions. The same spirit infuses the kitchen and bathrooms, where vibrant colors and patterns break the neutrality of the home, creating playful, unexpected moments.

The material palette contrasts muted tones in the main living areas with bold colors and textures in the terraces, kitchen, and bathrooms, balancing calm neutrality with moments of intensity.