Two independent summer apartments reinterpret the landscape and cultural memory of Serifos through distinct colour palettes, natural materials and bespoke elements inspired by the island.

Seriphos Estate is a complete redesign of a 1970s building near Agios Ioannis beach in Serifos. The project by Ioli Chiotini Studio contains two independent residences: Kelyphos on the upper level and Edaphos below.

Rather than reproducing Cycladic architecture literally, the interiors translate characteristic impressions of the island into colour, material and form. The line between sea and sky, the roughness of the dry landscape and, above all, the intensity of summer light become recurring points of reference throughout the two residences.

 

 

Two residences, two colour identities

Although the apartments belong to the same project, each develops a distinct atmosphere.

Earthy and reddish tones dominate Edaphos on the ground floor, connecting its palette with the dry terrain. Kelyphos above is defined by blue-green hues that recall the sea and the changing colours of the horizon.

The contrast gives each residence an individual identity while maintaining a common conceptual framework. Across both interiors, colour operates less as surface decoration than as a means of abstracting familiar images and sensations from the island.

The project thus approaches place through memory rather than imitation. Serifos is present in the interiors without being reduced to conventional white-and-blue references.

 

Translating Cycladic forms

Built-in seating with organic curves, niches protected beneath arches and timber ceiling battens reinterpret elements associated with the traditional architecture of Serifos.

These references are simplified and incorporated into a contemporary interior language. Curves soften transitions between different functions, while recessed areas create more protected settings for sitting and resting.

Natural materials reinforce this sense of familiarity. Woven cane appears on wardrobe fronts and linen is used around the beds, introducing tactile surfaces and warmth within the restrained interiors.

Two-tone white and blue curtains establish a more direct relationship with the view. Their horizontal transition echoes the division between sky and sea and brings the distant horizon into the rooms through colour and fabric.

 

 

Cultural references as bespoke objects

A series of custom-made elements introduces more specific references to the history and culture of Serifos.

The island’s quarries, apiaries and mythology are abstracted into mirrors, articulated pendant lights and marble surfaces incorporated into the kitchen furniture. These pieces do not function as literal replicas of local objects. Instead, they transform recognizable associations into contemporary forms and details.

The strategy adds another layer to the interiors: the landscape is expressed through the overall palette, while cultural memory appears at the smaller scale of furniture, lighting and bespoke objects.

 

Outdoor living beneath timber pergolas

Both levels extend into outdoor spaces sheltered by timber pergolas covered with natural reed.

Built-in seating and generous cushions continue the colour palette of the interiors, making the terraces feel like extensions of the rooms rather than separate external areas.

On the ground floor, the outdoor kitchen and large dining table form a principal gathering space with open views towards the island landscape. Here, the design shifts from the more intimate scale of the apartments to collective outdoor life.

The use of reed, timber, built-in furniture and textiles also maintains continuity between the material character of the interiors and the exposed summer spaces.

 

 

Personal memory within the new interiors

Alongside the references to the wider island, the design incorporates personal objects belonging to the owner.

These pieces preserve traces of the earlier life of the property and introduce a more individual layer within the redesigned apartments. Rather than treating the renovation as a complete break with the past, the project allows old memories and new interventions to coexist.

Seriphos Estate consequently operates at several scales of memory: the landscape and light of the Cyclades, the cultural history of Serifos, and the personal history attached to the existing property.

Through colour, natural materials and purpose-designed objects, Ioli Chiotini Studio transforms these references into two contemporary interiors with separate identities but a shared relationship with place.

 

The project was first published in print in ek magazine 290 | September 2024, the monthly issue by ek Architectural Publications.

A series of light-touch interventions transforms a ground-floor apartment in Kolonaki into the architecture practice’s first permanent workplace, retaining the existing timber floors, glazed doors and arched entrance.

 

The Local Local workplace occupies a 77m² ground-floor apartment in Kolonaki, Athens. Designed by Local Local as the practice’s first permanent headquarters, the project adapts an existing residential interior through a series of non-structural interventions that preserve its previous architectural layers.

Before moving into the new office, the growing team had been working from founder Sofia Xanthakou’s own Plaka House. The new space provides a dedicated setting for collective work while translating the studio’s wider interest in context, material history and reuse into its everyday working environment.

 

Working with the existing apartment

As the property is leased, the intervention was deliberately restrained. Instead of substantially altering the existing plan, the design works with the qualities already present in the apartment.

The original timber floors were repaired and lightened to compensate for the limited direct sunlight reaching the ground-floor interior. White walls further increase luminosity, while the existing timber doors with rippled glazed panels were restored and finished in a slightly darker tone.

The arched entrance was also retained. Together, these elements preserve the domestic origins of the space rather than concealing them behind a conventional office fit-out.

The L-shaped plan is divided primarily between the main workspace and a meeting room with access from two sides. This simple organization allows the small office to accommodate different patterns of individual and collective work without introducing new permanent partitions.

 

Furniture as part of the workplace

A large solid-cypress table in the meeting room became the point of departure for the furniture designed specifically for the office.

Drawing on its material and proportions, Local Local developed a large communal worktable and two window-facing desks. Solid timber is combined with Formica to withstand the heavier daily use associated with the workplace.

The new elements coexist with chairs retrieved from storage rather than replaced with a complete new furniture set. This combination of bespoke pieces and existing objects gives the office an intentionally cumulative character.

The meeting room itself was formerly a bedroom. Its original wardrobe was retained, but its doors were removed and replaced with roll-up blinds. The simple alteration transforms the existing joinery into open storage for material samples and project documentation while keeping another layer of the apartment visible.

 

Books and collective design work

A Vitsœ shelving system occupies one of the main walls and holds Sofia Xanthakou’s architecture library, assembled over almost a decade of study and professional work.

Previously kept in storage, the books now form both a working resource and a visual backdrop to the studio. Their prominent position reflects the practice’s continued use of printed material as a tool for research and design.

Another wall is occupied by a long perforated-metal pinboard finished in pistachio green. Designed by Local Local, it allows drawings, references and work in progress to be displayed and reviewed collectively.

The element establishes an analogue counterpart to screen-based work. Projects can be pinned up, compared and discussed at a larger scale, turning the wall into an active part of the design process.

 

A more distinct entrance

The entrance was treated as an opportunity to give the workplace a clearer identity. The existing lobby had little natural light and lacked a distinct spatial character.

Local Local invited artist Theodore Psychoyos to create two site-specific marble pieces for this area: a sculptural console and a seat. Marble, already recurrent in the practice’s architectural work, introduces a denser material presence against the lighter background of timber floors and white walls.

The pieces are functional objects but also establish a more deliberate threshold between the street, the shared building and the studio.

Lighting contributes another precisely selected layer. Ceiling fixtures by Michael Anastassiades are used in the principal workspace, while a freestanding light by the same designer completes the meeting room.

 

An office designed to accumulate

The project does not pursue the image of a finished, immutable workplace. Existing architectural elements, restored furniture, new joinery, books, material samples and artworks are deliberately allowed to coexist.

This approach leaves space for the office to change as the practice develops. Objects and references can accumulate, work can occupy the walls, and individual areas can adapt to new routines without requiring substantial alterations to the apartment.

Through a limited number of interventions, the Local Local workplace demonstrates how an ordinary residential interior can acquire a new function while retaining its previous character. Rather than erasing the apartment, the design uses its existing features as the framework for a workplace shaped by collaboration, material research and gradual occupation.

Two concealed storage volumes organize the apartment into public and private zones, while visual axes derived from the building’s façade grid reinforce the transparency and architectural identity of the former Doxiadis headquarters.

 

Located in the One Athens residential complex in Kolonaki, the apartment occupies a building of distinctive typology and architectural significance that formerly housed the headquarters of architect and urban planner Konstantinos Doxiadis.

The renovation by Proplusma Architects approaches the interior with respect for this existing architectural identity. Instead of imposing an unrelated formal language, the design emphasizes the visual axes, transparency and structural elements already embedded in the building.

 

 

Two zones defined by concealed storage

Two continuous storage units run transversely across the floor plan and establish the principal organization of the residence.

The first zone contains the shared living spaces: sitting room, dining area and open-plan kitchen. The second accommodates the more private programme, including the children’s bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms and the principal bedroom with its walk-in wardrobe and bathroom.

Rather than functioning simply as cupboards, the storage units operate as architectural boundaries. Their scale allows them to organize circulation, conceal secondary functions and separate the two parts of the apartment without introducing a conventional sequence of corridors and isolated rooms.

 

A grid derived from the existing façade

The design takes the geometric pattern of the building’s façades as a point of departure. Imaginary axes derived from this grid determine alignments both horizontally and vertically throughout the interior.

These lines coordinate openings, joinery, ceilings and fixed elements. As a result, individual interventions remain connected to a larger ordering system rather than appearing as independent objects.

The strategy also reinforces the relationship between the renovated apartment and the architecture of the original complex. The building’s exterior logic is translated into the organization of its interior, establishing visual continuity across the plan.

 

 

Exposed concrete and continuous timber flooring

In the living room, a recessed ceiling exposes the original concrete beams. Their rhythm remains visible as a recognizable element of the building’s construction and becomes one of the defining features of the shared space.

Concealed lighting around the recess emphasizes the depth and repetition of the beams without visually separating them from the broader composition.

A herringbone timber floor runs continuously through the apartment. Its warm material character contrasts with the exposed concrete and the predominantly monochromatic joinery, while its uninterrupted pattern reinforces spatial continuity.

At the centre of the living zone, the kitchen island becomes a focal point. Its substantial marble countertop establishes a material counterweight to the darker cabinetry behind it and connects the kitchen with the adjoining dining and sitting areas.

 

White and black storage surfaces

The two concealed storage bands are clad in timber finished in white and black lacquer. A regular grid of vertical grooves organizes the long surfaces and subtly marks the functions hidden behind them.

On the lighter side, the television and a bar adjacent to the dining area are integrated within the white cladding. When closed, the units become part of a continuous architectural surface rather than individual pieces of furniture.

On the opposite side, black lacquer gives the storage wall a denser character. A concealed door within the same surface provides access to the private part of the apartment, allowing the transition between the two zones to remain visually discreet.

 

 

Individual character within the private rooms

The more private areas introduce greater variation while remaining within the overall design system.

The children’s bedrooms respond to individual requirements, with bespoke elements and distinct colour palettes extending into their bathrooms. This allows each room to develop a recognizable character without disrupting the wider material coherence of the apartment.

In the principal bedroom, the composition places greater emphasis on depth and reflection. Mirrors, transparent wardrobe doors and concealed lighting create overlapping visual layers that expand the perception of the space.

The combination of transparency and reflection continues one of the central ideas of the residence. Boundaries remain legible, but they are repeatedly softened through visual connections and changing degrees of opacity.

Through a controlled palette of timber, marble, lacquered surfaces, glass and exposed concrete, the renovation establishes a contemporary domestic environment while retaining references to the original building. The design is defined less by added decoration than by alignment, concealment and the careful management of transparency.

 

The project was first published in print in Apartments 2025, an annual edition by ek Architectural Publications.

Bespoke joinery and movable partitions replace fixed rooms, allowing a compact 1970s apartment to shift between open-plan living, work and privacy.

 

Kifisia Apartment is located within the “Stroggyli Polykatoikia,” or Round Apartment Building, designed by architect Nikos Despotidis and constructed in 1973–1974. The renovation by Georgios Apostolopoulos Architects reconsiders the internal organization of the apartment while maintaining a clear relationship with the geometry of the original building.

Before the intervention, the plan was divided into a sequence of enclosed spaces. Two narrow corridors led towards the bedroom and kitchen, while the bathroom occupied the centre. As a result, the principal living areas were compressed into a narrow zone with limited access to natural light.

 

 

Removing the internal divisions

The renovation began with the removal of all internal partitions. This process revealed the underlying geometry of the apartment and created the conditions for a continuous interior.

Instead of replacing the former layout with another arrangement of enclosed rooms, the architects organized the different functions through bespoke joinery and movable partitions. These elements define areas for living, sleeping, working and storage without interrupting the overall continuity of the plan.

The apartment can therefore be perceived as a single space or divided into more private zones. Its organization changes according to the time of day and the needs of its occupants.

 

Flexible boundaries of privacy

Despite the limited floor area, the programme required two bedrooms alongside the other functions of a complete residence. This condition led the architects to reconsider privacy as a changing spatial relationship rather than a fixed boundary.

The principal bedroom operates as an extension of the living room. A sequence of wardrobes stands between the two areas, providing storage while acting as a series of visual filters.

The joinery limits direct views without creating the sense of a fully enclosed room. Consequently, the bedroom remains connected to the broader interior while retaining a measured degree of separation.

 

A room that appears when needed

On the opposite side of the plan, a second flexible area can function as a dining room, home office or additional bedroom.

A continuous system of bespoke joinery incorporates storage, a fold-down desk and a retractable bed. When these elements remain closed, the room almost disappears and becomes part of the open interior.

Sliding partitions can isolate the area when privacy is required. The apartment thus gains an autonomous second bedroom without permanently surrendering space to a function that may only be needed occasionally.

This approach allows the same area to accommodate several patterns of use. The room appears when required and recedes once its temporary function has ended.

 

The kitchen as a social centre

The new kitchen occupies the centre of the plan, replacing the former bathroom. Its main functions are organized around a large island connected directly with the living and dining areas.

The island faces the existing fireplace and becomes a shared point within the residence. Cooking, conversation and everyday activity can develop around the same central element.

Relocating the kitchen also transforms the circulation. Instead of being reached through a narrow corridor, it now forms part of the continuous living environment and establishes direct relationships with the surrounding uses.

 

A nearly monochromatic interior

The material palette remains restrained and almost monochromatic. Microcement extends across the floors, walls and doors, reducing visual interruptions between surfaces.

This continuous treatment reinforces the unity of the interior. At the same time, it allows the original construction, curved geometry and architectural logic of the apartment building to remain legible.

The subdued material background gives greater emphasis to the changing arrangement of doors, partitions and integrated furniture. Spatial transformation, rather than applied decoration, becomes the defining feature of the project.

Kifisia Apartment ultimately proposes a compact interior without permanently assigned rooms. Areas can open, close or change function, allowing spatial continuity and privacy to coexist within the same domestic environment.

The renovation opens a compartmentalized 1970s residence to daylight and transforms part of its interior into a generous semi-outdoor living space.

 

Heraklion Summer House is the renovation of a two-storey residence built during the 1970s in a suburb of Heraklion, Crete. Designed by iLi Studio, the intervention seeks to give the existing urban house a stronger vacation-home character by reorganizing its interior and reinforcing its relationship with outdoor life.

The project is conceived in two phases. The first, completed in 2025, concerns the renovation of the upper residential level. A later phase proposes the addition of a new volume on the roof terrace.

Opening the existing plan

Before the renovation, internal walls divided the residence into a sequence of separate spaces, including an entrance hall and an enclosed kitchen. This organization limited visual continuity and prevented natural light from reaching the full depth of the floor plan.

The intervention removes these partitions and combines the kitchen, dining room and living area within a continuous shared space. Instead of being distributed among separate rooms, the main domestic activities now unfold within an open plan.

The new organization improves circulation and establishes longer views through the interior. It also allows daylight to enter from different sides and move across the residence throughout the day.

 

A continuous living environment

The open-plan arrangement does not eliminate all spatial definition. The different uses remain legible through furniture, fixed elements and changes in orientation rather than through enclosing walls.

The kitchen forms part of the shared living environment, while the dining and sitting areas maintain direct visual contact with one another. Movement through the house consequently becomes more fluid, and the interior is perceived as a continuous sequence rather than a collection of individual rooms.

This reorganization uses the existing building as a framework for a different form of everyday life. The renovation does not depend on increasing the enclosed floor area. Instead, it redistributes the available space and gives greater importance to shared use, light and visual connection.

 

Giving up interior area for outdoor life

The project’s principal intervention is the creation of a new semi-outdoor space in front of the living room. The existing balcony was too narrow to function as a substantial extension of the house. iLi Studio therefore chose to reduce the enclosed interior and convert part of it into a deeper, more usable covered terrace.

Although the gesture decreases the internal floor area, it expands the range of ways in which the residence can be inhabited. The new space can accommodate everyday activities outdoors while remaining protected from direct exposure.

A large opening connects the living room with this covered area. When opened, it strengthens both the visual continuity and the functional relationship between the two zones. The living room and terrace can therefore operate independently or as a single extended environment.

 

From an urban house to a summer residence

The semi-outdoor space changes the balance of the residence. Outdoor life is no longer confined to a conventional balcony attached to the façade. Instead, the covered terrace becomes a principal room of the house and a threshold between interior and exterior.

This approach gives the existing suburban building a more pronounced seasonal character without treating it as a new construction. The holiday-home quality emerges from the organization of everyday activities around light, openness and outdoor occupation.

Through a limited number of targeted changes, Heraklion Summer House demonstrates how an existing residential shell can accommodate a different way of living. The removal of partitions brings daylight deeper into the plan, while the new semi-outdoor space establishes a more direct relationship with the Cretan climate.

The renovation preserves the vaulted structure of existing summer residences in Oia, introducing precise functional changes, natural materials and selected colour accents.

 

The refurbished summer residences form part of a larger complex in the traditional settlement of Oia. Facing south, they overlook the volcano and the Caldera. Their existing shells are characteristic of the island’s more recent architectural heritage.

The intervention by Kapsimalis Architects focuses on the interiors. It preserves the original structure and spatial identity while adapting the residences to contemporary hospitality requirements.

Each unit includes a living area, bedroom and bathroom. The interiors extend into private courtyards with small pools and views towards the Aegean landscape.

 

Preserving the vaulted interiors

The principal objective was to retain and emphasize the existing vaulted forms. Domes, cross vaults and shallow concave ceilings give each residence its distinct spatial character.

Rather than concealing these elements, the redesign treats them as the starting point of the interior composition. New furniture and functional additions follow the existing geometry without competing with it.

The interventions remain deliberately limited. Small changes to fixed and movable furniture improve circulation, storage and everyday use while preserving the original proportions of the rooms.

Arched openings reinforce the continuity between adjoining spaces. Their rounded profiles repeat the geometry of the ceilings and allow the residences to be perceived as a sequence of connected vaulted chambers.

A restrained material palette

Smooth white plaster covers the walls and ceilings. Its continuous surface emphasizes the plasticity of the architecture and allows daylight to reveal the changing curvature of the interior.

Large slabs of light-grey marble define the floors. Their subtle tonal variations introduce depth without disturbing the visual unity of the rooms.

Built-in timber elements are finished in pale oak. Different varieties of marble are used for fixed furniture and counters, while ceramic claustra in a natural terracotta tone filter views between selected areas.

Off-white textiles complete the quieter material background. Together, the plaster, marble, oak and fabrics establish continuity between the different residences without erasing their individual spatial qualities.

 

Reflections and selected colour

Mirrored sections are introduced on walls and timber constructions to increase the perceived depth of the smaller rooms. Reflections multiply the vaulted forms, daylight and partial views of adjoining spaces.

Glass elements further reduce the visual weight of partitions. In bathrooms, transparent screens preserve the continuity of the vaulted interiors while allowing the different functions to remain clearly organized.

Against the neutral background, movable furniture in deep red introduces a concentrated colour accent. Metal-and-glass lighting fixtures and darker timber pieces add further contrast without fragmenting the overall composition.

The colour is used selectively rather than as a continuous decorative theme. As a result, the red elements become distinct points of orientation within the predominantly white and grey interiors.

Courtyards overlooking the Caldera

The external façades are retained and subtly repaired. The courtyards are reorganized through new dining areas, built-in seating and planting.

These outdoor spaces operate as extensions of the compact residences. Small pools, shaded seating and framed views towards the Caldera support everyday outdoor use without altering the established architectural character of the complex.

The relationship between the white interiors and the blue horizon remains central to the experience. Windows and doorways frame the sea, while daylight moves across the curved surfaces throughout the day.

Through restrained alterations, the renovation brings contemporary comfort to the existing residences without replacing their spatial identity. The vaulted structures remain dominant, supported by natural materials, reflective surfaces and carefully selected elements.

 

The project was first published in print in ek magazine 288 | June 2024, a monthly issue by ek Architectural Publications.

At Minos Palace Resort in Crete, spatial flow, controlled sensory transitions and a close relationship with nature shape an environment dedicated to personalised wellbeing.

 

 

Νao Longevity Hub is located at Minos Palace Resort in Agios Nikolaos, Crete. Designed by Stones & Walls, the project explores how interior design can contribute to a broader approach to wellbeing and longevity.

Movement through space, contact with the natural landscape, lighting, materiality and atmosphere are treated as interconnected elements. The interior does not simply provide a setting for treatments and assessments. Instead, it becomes an active part of the visitor’s gradual transition towards a calmer rhythm.

Flow as a spatial principle

The name Nao derives from the ancient Greek verb nao, meaning “to flow,” and recalls the principle of panta rhei: everything flows. This concept informs the organization of the interior and the continuous passage from one functional zone to another.

The visitor’s experience begins before arrival through a personalised assessment, which establishes the basis of the programme that follows. Once inside Nao, the succession of spaces, the relationship with the landscape and the gradual reduction of sensory stimuli create a process of decompression.

The entire programme is not revealed from a single point. Instead, it unfolds through an ordered sequence of thresholds. Variations in light, enclosure, texture and atmosphere mark the transition from one activity to the next.

Circulation therefore becomes more than a functional link between rooms. It forms part of the overall wellness experience and prepares visitors for a different perception of time.

 

Nature and sensory restraint

The design responds to the understanding that the physical environment can affect both mental and bodily states. Natural light, tactile surfaces and visual contact with the exterior contribute to a measured and progressively quieter spatial experience.

Rather than separating the different functions through abrupt boundaries, Stones & Walls establish continuity through a shared material and atmospheric language. Spaces for assessment, movement, treatment and relaxation maintain distinct identities while remaining part of the same route.

The natural landscape serves as more than a framed view. Its colours, rhythms and sense of openness inform the restrained character of the interior. In this way, the project introduces contact with nature without relying on literal decorative representations.

Five interconnected pillars

The spatial design operates alongside a personalised methodology structured around five principal pillars: Nutrition, Sleep, Movement, Self-Mastery, and Connection & Purpose.

Diagnostic tools and individual programmes establish a personal route for each visitor. The interior supports this process through spaces with different degrees of activity, privacy and sensory intensity.

More active or technologically supported functions are balanced by quieter environments dedicated to rest and contemplation. The transitions among them are designed to feel gradual, preserving the principle of continuous flow.

Architecture and methodology therefore have complementary roles. Assessment defines the individual programme, while the physical environment gives this programme a clear sequence and atmosphere.

 

A changing understanding of luxury

Nao reflects a broader shift in contemporary hospitality and wellness design. Luxury is no longer expressed only through material refinement or visual abundance. It is increasingly associated with time, privacy, personalised attention and the quality of the surrounding environment.

Within this context, the project brings together interior design, science and nature as parts of a single experience. The objective is not simply to create a visually controlled setting, but to establish an environment that supports a more balanced everyday rhythm.

The architectural contribution lies in translating the abstract concept of flow into a spatial experience. Arrival, evaluation, movement, treatment and rest become successive stages of a continuous route.

 

The project was first presented in print in ek magazine 302 | November 2025, a monthly issue by ek Architectural Publications.

Located in Patras, Dyo Exi Deka by KARN Studio transforms a 173 m² interior into an open and permeable space that mediates between the street and the activities within. Led by Nancy Karagianni, the design reinterprets the familiar typology of the neighbourhood store through transparency, spatial continuity and an emphasis on collective use.

Large openings, pivoting doors and low thresholds weaken the conventional boundary between inside and outside. Rather than functioning as an enclosed commercial interior, the space extends its activity towards the pavement, maintaining a continuous visual and physical relationship with the city.

 

 

An open interior without partitions

The interior is organized as a single flexible space. Instead of dividing the plan through walls, the existing structural columns articulate different areas while maintaining overall continuity.

A clear visual axis connects the entrance with the service counter, allowing the programme to unfold gradually and remain immediately legible. The generous ceiling height reinforces the sense of openness, while suspended linear lighting fixtures introduce rhythm and scale within the large volume.

The lighting system also contributes to the industrial character of the interior. Metal frames, visible installations and off-the-shelf elements are deliberately left exposed, establishing a direct relationship between construction, use and atmosphere.

Material zones within a continuous space

The material palette is deliberately restrained. Exposed brick gives the service counter a warmer and more tactile presence, contrasting with the continuous floor and the neutral surfaces of the surrounding envelope.

Near the façade, a zone of green-and-white tiles marks places for pausing and interaction. Rather than functioning as a physical boundary, the change in material subtly guides movement and distinguishes use within the otherwise continuous plan.

Different spatial conditions therefore emerge without compromising the openness of the interior. Materials, furniture and lighting become the principal tools of organization.

 

 

An interior connected to the city

Natural light enters through glazing along two sides of the space, maintaining visual contact with the surrounding streets. Planting softens the robust material character and introduces a more familiar, almost domestic scale.

The furniture arrangement remains adaptable, allowing the interior to respond both to everyday patterns of use and to larger collective gatherings. This flexibility reinforces the project’s understanding of the neighbourhood venue as a shared urban room rather than a fixed composition.

Dyo Exi Deka balances the directness of an industrial interior with moments of warmth and informality. Through its open edges and adaptable organization, the project positions everyday commercial activity within the broader life of the street.

Located in São Paulo, MAS House is the result of a complete remodeling by SUITE Arquitetos, conceived with spatial integration as its starting point and materiality as a structuring element.

The residence was reorganized around the family’s daily life, strengthening spatial continuity and the relationship between interior and exterior. Throughout the house, light, materials and furniture work together to create a calm and coherent living environment.

The Living Area as the Center of the House

At the center of the residence, the living area organizes the social program, bringing the sitting room, dining room, kitchen and outdoor space into the same spatial field.

Conceived as a versatile environment, it accommodates different forms of use, from everyday family life to quieter moments, always oriented toward the garden. Large openings expand the sense of space and make natural light an active component of the architecture, changing the atmosphere of the interiors throughout the day.

The outdoor area is therefore present from the main living spaces rather than treated as a separate part of the house. The garden becomes a constant visual reference and reinforces the continuity between domestic life and the surrounding landscape.

 

 

Material Continuity and Furniture

Materiality defines the identity of the project. Brushed Brazilian travertine establishes a continuous base across the social area, while cabinetry in dehydrated oak veneer extends through the interiors and reinforces the unity of the composition.

Woodstone quartzite, integrated into niches and the dining-room cabinetry, introduces texture and depth. Together with fabrics, smooth surfaces and carefully distributed lighting, the material palette creates a subtly golden atmosphere without visual excess.

Furniture operates as an extension of the architecture. In the living room, the side table and the lamp establish a balance between form and materiality.

The sofa was redesigned specifically for the project. Its straighter and more pronounced lines give it a central role in the composition and reinforce the project’s custom-designed character.

 

 

Private Rooms and the Garden

In the private areas, material continuity and chromatic neutrality create a quieter atmosphere. The primary suite combines woven textures, fabrics and timber flooring, with direct access to a balcony that re-establishes the connection with the exterior.

In the powder room, marble is used on the wall panel and for the sculpted basin with a honed finish. Diffuse lighting emphasizes the texture of the stone without dominating the space.

Outside, dense landscaping surrounds the pool and creates a private setting removed from the pace of the city. Furniture with simple lines and durable materials supports continuous everyday use.

Through the relationship between spatial integration, natural light and material continuity, MAS House proposes a fluid way of living in which the interior, garden, furniture and daily routines form part of the same domestic environment.

A 1970s Apartment Reorganized for Contemporary Living

The project concerns the renovation of an 85 sq.m. apartment on the first floor of a 1970s residential building in Neapoli, Nikaia. The owner’s main request was to keep the intervention as limited as possible, while also creating sufficient storage space for everyday use.

The design is based on an open plan that unifies the living areas, reinforces a sense of through-space and allows natural light to spread throughout the apartment. Through a small number of precise moves, the apartment is reorganized in a way that significantly improves its daily use.

One Unified Living Area

The main intervention involved removing the partition walls that separated the living room and dining area from the corridor and kitchen. This allowed the previously divided spaces to merge into a more connected and functional layout, bringing natural light even into the corridor at the center of the plan.

The demolition revealed the main structural elements of the building, including the column at the center of the unified space and the beam that runs lengthwise through the apartment, from the entrance to the bedroom. Rather than concealing these elements, the design incorporates them into the new spatial organization.

 

 

A Bookcase as Spatial Filter

The apartment is organized into three distinct zones: the entrance and living areas; the transitional zone leading to the private rooms, including the bathroom, storage room and corridor; and the bedroom with the auxiliary room-office.

A bookcase placed beneath the beam plays a central role in the new layout. It operates as a dividing piece of furniture, separating the living areas from the private zone without fully closing them off. Its ribbed-glass back allows natural light to diffuse toward the corridor, while limiting direct visual contact and preserving privacy. The material also refers to the aesthetic character of the original 1970s apartment.

The Kitchen as a Place of Gathering

The kitchen is treated as an integral part of the open plan. It is directly connected to the dining and living areas and develops along the north-south axis, becoming a vital component of the unified living space.

A secondary island provides additional work surface while allowing the kitchen to function as a place of gathering. In this way, its role extends beyond functionality and becomes part of the apartment’s everyday social life.

 

 

Storage Through Limited Interventions

The new organization responds to the initial request for improved functionality and storage, without requiring extensive construction work. A built-in wardrobe is designed at the entrance, part of the bathroom is used to create a storage room, and the lower section of the bookcase provides additional storage.

These solutions improve everyday usability while preserving the openness and continuity of the apartment’s new living core.

Earthy Palette and 1970s References

The material and color palette is based on soft, earthy tones, combining the grey of the structural elements with warm off-white shades and natural wood. Stronger color accents appear in the kitchen and bedroom, where green dominates, and in the bathroom, where blue is introduced.

In the bedrooms, the existing flooring was preserved after maintenance, while large-format ceramic tiles were used in the unified living area, reinforcing the sense of continuity and spatial integration.

 

 

Furniture, Objects and Personal Identity

Some of the furniture was custom-designed for the apartment, while a Danish armchair from the owner’s collection, lighting fixtures, artworks and handmade decorative objects with curved forms contribute to the space’s personal identity.

Through the composition of geometric forms, natural materials and contemporary design lines, the renovation achieves a balanced coexistence between old and new. The apartment is redefined as a flexible and ergonomic living environment, with clear architectural identity and functional organization.

A 1970s Apartment Reworked for Contemporary Living

Located in a prominent 1970s building in the city of Ioannina, Thalen Apt by Pantazi5 Architects is a 74 sq.m. apartment renovation designed for a sociable couple. The project brings together childhood memories, the existing character of the apartment and a forward-looking approach to everyday domestic life.

Rather than erasing the memory of the original space, the redesign acts as a bridge between what the apartment already carried and the future patterns of living it now needs to support. The result is a compact interior that combines hospitality, practicality and carefully controlled material contrasts.

One Intervention, One New Living Core

The project focuses on the apartment’s living areas. A single change to the existing plan allows previously separated rooms to merge into a more connected and functional layout, creating an extended naturally lit space that becomes the center of the home.

This new living core accommodates everyday use, gatherings and flexible domestic routines. It is organized not through rigid partitions, but through material definition, visual continuity and a clear relationship between open, transparent and enclosed zones.

 

 

Open, Glass and Wooden Areas

The unified space is visually divided into three distinct areas: the open area, the glass area and the wooden area. These correspond respectively to the living room, the kitchen and the service zone, which includes storage and a WC.

Although strongly differentiated in tone and texture, the three areas flow into one another. Existing uses, such as the dining area within the kitchen and the arrangement of the living room, are preserved and reworked, while new functions are introduced to support the apartment’s more practical and hospitable character.

Green Marble and a Parametric Mirror Installation

The open area forms the main living space of the apartment. Closely connected to the kitchen, it also provides access toward the private areas through the service zone.

Clad with green marble flooring, the bright living room includes furniture made from reused materials of the existing apartment. A parametrically designed mirror installation becomes the space’s most distinctive intervention, framing specific views toward the neighboring neo-Byzantine monument of the Zosimaia Educational Academy.

 

 

The Kitchen as a Transparent Room

The kitchen is part of the same unified living area, but it is defined through a glass screen that maintains visual contact and interaction between the two zones. Transparent and opaque cupboards form a flexible arrangement that supports both cooking and dining.

Black granite worktops give the kitchen a strong material presence, while light grey tiles and black steel shelving complete the palette. The shelving adds a sculptural quality to the room, while also functioning as storage.

Iroko Wood and the Introverted Service Zone

Next to the transparent kitchen area, the wooden zone is the most introverted part of the apartment. Finished with upcycled iroko wood from the original apartment, it accommodates storage and a WC, while also mediating access to the private rooms.

Through this compact service core, the renovation adds functionality without fragmenting the new living area. Thalen Apt therefore becomes a careful study in how a small apartment can be reorganized through one precise spatial move, turning existing materials, memory and contemporary use into a coherent domestic environment.

A Former Warehouse Transformed into a Wellness Space

In Metaxourgeio, Athens, Hekate Fitness Club by Studio Maneo transforms a former warehouse into a bright and calm wellness space. The project is guided by the architectural idea of disconnecting from the intensity of the city, creating an interior where exercise, safety and sensory decompression are brought together.

Although the owner comes from the world of sports, the ambition was not to create a conventional gym. The design instead seeks to shape a space that first conveys a sense of personal safety and respect for each visitor’s identity, while offering a moment of retreat from the dense rhythm and visual noise of the city center.

A Space of Disconnection from the City

The project approaches wellness as a broader physical and mental experience. The goal was for visitors to feel closer to nature, but also to their own physical and spiritual condition. In this sense, the interior is conceived less as a place of performance and more as a protective environment for movement, concentration and recovery.

This atmosphere is developed through natural materials, clean geometries and light as a primary design tool. Wood cladding, terracotta tones and earthy shades create a calm setting, where the balance between light and shadow becomes part of the spatial experience.

 

 

Natural Materials and Soft Opacity

The façade is treated with milky glass, establishing a balance between light diffusion and soft opacity. This gesture protects the interior from direct visual exposure while allowing light to enter gently, forming a secure and atmospheric environment for exercise.

Inside, the 140 sq.m. space is organized across two levels. The ground floor hosts the reception and workout areas, while the upper level contains support functions, including changing rooms and washrooms. The plan is structured through the idea of a “box within a box,” clearly defining uses without fragmenting the overall atmosphere.

The “Box Within a Box” and the Martial Arts Area

The martial arts area is defined by wooden wall panels, distinguishing it from the rest of the program and reinforcing the perception of an inner volume nested within the larger space. This architectural strategy gives the project clarity and depth, while preserving a sense of continuity between the different functions.

The reception is also conceived as a wooden box-like structure. Its clostra surface visually connects it with the rear martial arts area, allowing the idea of nested spaces to be repeated across the interior through material and rhythm.

 

 

Linear Skylights and the Stair as a Light Filter

Two key elements define the lighting qualities of the project: the linear skylights and the central staircase leading to the secondary level. The skylights allow natural light to enter softly throughout the day, gradually transforming the atmosphere of the interior as time passes.

The staircase is framed by a tall freestanding wall, which acts as a spatial filter between the two main uses. A vertical slit in the middle of the wall is fitted with clostra panels, creating shifting effects of light and shadow, opacity and transparency.

Indoor Planting as a Transitional Gesture

As visitors move through the space, they encounter indoor plants placed within built-in planting beds. This gesture introduces nature into the interior not as decoration, but as a transitional filter.

The planting supports decompression both upon entering from the intensity of the city and when leaving after physical exercise. Through this sequence, Hekate Fitness Club shapes wellness as an experience that begins before training and continues after it, connecting body, light, material and atmosphere.

An Architect’s Own Apartment in São Paulo

Designed as his own residence, AC Apartment by Arthur Casas is a synthesis of technical precision, functionality and personal narrative. Located in Praça Henrique Monteiro, a mixed-use complex also designed by the architect, the apartment is conceived as a direct extension of his thinking on architecture, design and urban life.

Every decision, from the organization of the plan to the detailing of the carpentry, reflects a conscious adaptation to everyday use. The result is a residence that combines spatial fluidity, integrated systems and aesthetic intention, while marking a significant shift in the architect’s way of living: from a 1940s house in Pacaembu, designed by Artigas, to a more compact, contemporary and practical urban apartment.

A 300 sq.m. Plan Without Residual Space

With an area of approximately 300 sq.m., the apartment was designed to eliminate unused spaces and prioritize direct circulation, functional clarity and versatile environments. Full automation, custom-made solutions and extensive use of natural materials create an atmosphere that is precise but welcoming, controlled but lived-in.

The interior also functions as a calm background for Arthur Casas’ personal collection of artworks, sculptures, books, photographs, cherished objects and design pieces. As the architect notes, designing for himself was, in his words, easy: he knew what he liked and how he lived.

 

 

A Continuous Social Area

Upon entering the apartment, the integration of spaces is immediately apparent. The door opens into a continuous social area, where the living room, dining room, home theater and kitchen are connected through a single architectural gesture. Circulation is fluid and unobstructed, while fixed elements organize the space naturally.

In the living room, the Fusca sofa by Arthur Casas for Micasa occupies a central position, accompanied by Bauhaus chairs by Franco Albini, the Elda armchair by Joe Colombo and a Desenho coffee table by Arthur Casas. The atmosphere is strongly shaped by art, with works by Mira Schendel, Carlito Carvalhosa, Anna Maria Maiolino and Waltércio Caldas, among others.

Dining Room, Kitchen and Integrated Carpentry

The transition to the dining room is seamless. A dining table in canela wood slats, designed by Arthur Casas, is surrounded by Flair’o chairs from B&B Italia, while sculptures by Rafael Oboé, Liuba Wolf, Ilha do Ferro and Rhodes contribute to the layered character of the space. A painting by Paulo Pasta marks the wall, while embedded fixtures in the continuous wooden ceiling provide precise lighting throughout the apartment.

The kitchen features the Disco stool by Arthur Casas for Studio Objeto and Neolith Basalt Grey countertops, integrated into a custom carpentry structure designed by the architect. The cabinetry conceals appliances and optimizes storage, allowing the kitchen either to merge with the social area or to be closed off by a sliding door, according to use.

 

 

Home Theater and Multifunctional Office

Adjacent to the kitchen, the home theater revisits the Fusca sofa, now combined with the Tavolino 1932 side table by Gio Ponti, the Marsala armchair by Michael Ducaroy for Ligne Roset and a tapestry by Henri Laurens. Shelves display sculptures, ceramics and plates by Livia Gorka, Pablo Picasso and Jean Lurçat, alongside books and personal objects.

Between the social and intimate areas, the office operates as a multifunctional room. It serves as a workspace, while also accommodating a bed for visits from one of the architect’s children. The room features the Pivot High stool by Vitra and a collection of Arthur Casas’ miniature cars, displayed in custom-designed niches.

A Wooden Transition to the Private Areas

The corridor leading to the bedrooms is lined in wood, creating a quiet transition toward the private areas of the apartment. Along the walls, a collection of photographs includes works by Pierre Verger, Mario Cravo Neto, Bob Wolfenson and Cristiano Mascaro, turning circulation into a gallery-like sequence.

In the master suite, the atmosphere is defined by subtle lighting, vintage table lamps, technical fixtures such as the Ledtube by Marset, a continuous wooden ceiling and custom-designed furniture. A Giuseppe Scapinelli armchair and a Via Appia marble nightstand complete the room, alongside works by artists including Tarsila do Amaral, Emiliano Di Cavalcanti, Athos Bulcão and Flávio de Carvalho.

 

 

Technology, Precision and Atmosphere

Every technical detail was integrated with precision: central vacuum, embedded sound system, invisible air conditioning, anti-moisture system, intelligent sensors and full automation. Lighting fixtures by XAL highlight the artworks and materials with precise light distribution, without competing with the architecture.

This technical control supports the apartment’s broader atmosphere. The project is not only about efficiency or display, but about creating a living environment where infrastructure disappears into the architecture and allows materials, art and daily life to take the foreground.

Architecture Experienced at Scale 1:1

Living in an apartment he designed himself, from the building and plan to finishes and furniture, gives Arthur Casas the opportunity to experience his architecture at full scale. Praça Henrique Monteiro, which brings together hotel, restaurant, boulangerie, jazz club and residences within one complex, is understood by the architect as a living organism in constant adaptation.

For Casas, the apartment could not be separated from the wider project. Its meaning lies in the continuity of language between the residence, the tower and the other programs of the complex. AC Apartment is therefore both a private home and a lived manifesto: a compact urban residence shaped by architecture, art, memory and the routines of everyday life.

A Compact Nail Studio in Pangrati

Located in Pangrati, Nailon Room by So Far Studio is a neighborhood nail studio developed within a compact space of just 20 sq.m. Rather than treating the limited area as a restriction, the project is conceived as a single atmospheric environment, where light, texture and spatial continuity define the experience of the interior.

The design focuses on softness and intimacy, creating a quiet pause within the rhythm of the city. Upon entry, the space is immediately shaped by a suspended textile installation at ceiling level, which introduces a sense of lightness and enclosure without reducing the clarity of the room.

A Suspended Textile Installation as Spatial Device

The translucent textile surface acts simultaneously as a light filter and a spatial device. It diffuses illumination across the interior, softening the atmosphere and transforming the perception of the room into something quieter, more immersive and almost scenographic.

This ceiling intervention becomes the defining element of the project. It gives the compact plan a sense of depth and continuity, while establishing an immediately recognizable identity for the studio.

Materials, Reflections and Pastel Tonalities

A restrained palette of cement plaster, plywood surfaces and pastel pistachio-toned details establishes a calm architectural language rooted in texture and tactility. Clean geometries and carefully balanced proportions reinforce the clarity of the interior, allowing the few material gestures to carry the atmosphere of the space.

Subtle reflections and layered transparencies continuously shift the perception of depth throughout the day. A large mirror positioned along the main axis visually expands the room, multiplying the presence of the textile installation and dissolving the physical limits of the compact plan.

A Linear Bar and Integrated Bench

The spatial organization is structured around a long linear bar element, which functions simultaneously as reception desk, manicure station and social threshold. This element concentrates activity and gives the small interior a clear functional order.

Opposite, a continuous built-in bench accommodates the waiting area, product display and pedicure station within a single integrated gesture. In this way, the different functions of the nail studio coexist without fragmenting the space.

Atmosphere Over Visual Excess

Rather than prioritizing capacity or visual excess, Nailon Room focuses on atmosphere, softness and sensory experience. Through light diffusion, muted tonalities and material continuity, the interior momentarily detaches visitors from the intensity of the city.

The result is an intimate and immersive environment, gently suspended between function and scenography. Within just 20 sq.m., the project creates a complete interior world defined by restraint, clarity and atmospheric precision.

A Demanding Transformation in Kolonaki

In the heart of Kolonaki, Kokosalaki Architecture renovates a 170 sq.m. apartment, shaping a contemporary urban residence around art, objects, textures and refined domestic atmosphere. The project, originally titled Refined Luxury, is set within a 1950s apartment building in central Athens and responds to the particular character of the existing shell.

The renovation was guided by the owner’s important personal art collection and distinct vision of modern luxury. The aim was to create a calmer, cleaner and more contemporary environment, without sacrificing the warmth, atmosphere and personality of the home.

Art, Objects and Contemporary Urban Living

The apartment is organized as a layered interior in which art is not treated as a later addition, but as an active part of the overall atmosphere. Works of art, objects and textures are integrated into a composition that allows the residence to remain personal while retaining a sense of order and clarity.

Through this approach, contemporary urban living is understood not as a neutral background, but as a daily experience with character. Surfaces, furniture, lighting and details are brought together to support intimacy, privacy and the presence of art in everyday life.

 

Working Within the Existing Shell

As is often the case with the renovation of 1950s apartment buildings in central Athens, the project involved a series of technical and construction challenges: outdated infrastructure, restricted site access, complex coordination requirements and the constant need to balance contemporary intervention with the character of the existing shell.

These limitations were absorbed into the design process in a controlled way. The new architectural language does not impose itself on the existing apartment, but develops through it, allowing the residence to acquire a more contemporary identity while preserving its memory and scale.

Light, Contrast and Atmosphere

From the bright, sun-filled living areas to the intentionally darker and more atmospheric WC, the apartment unfolds through contrast. Softness is set against structure, natural textures against refined detailing, openness against intimacy.

These contrasts do not operate as conflicts, but as complementary conditions that give the residence depth, rhythm and internal balance. The result is a domestic interior that is calm, composed and quietly expressive.

Understated Luxury and Personal Character

Luxury is approached through restraint rather than excess. The sense of quality emerges from precise choices, the relationship between materials, the atmosphere of the spaces and the way the apartment supports daily life.

Apartment Renovation in Kolonaki by Kokosalaki Architecture forms a home that feels both contemporary and deeply personal. Art, texture and contemporary urban living coexist in balance, shaping a residence of understated luxury in the center of Athens.

Japanese Aesthetics in Contemporary Athens

The Darya J Hotel is a contemporary hospitality destination in Athens, where the principles of Japanese aesthetics are translated into a refined architectural experience. Rooted in ideas of simplicity, balance, and material authenticity, the project establishes an atmosphere of calm and understated luxury within the dense urban fabric of the city.

Shared Spaces, Courtyard and Rooftop

The shared spaces are organized around a sense of continuity and flow, connecting the lobby, bar, and breakfast area with a landscaped outdoor courtyard featuring planting and a swimming pool. On the mezzanine level, flexible co-working spaces are introduced, while the rooftop hosts a bar with a jacuzzi, offering panoramic views over Athens.

Rooms, Suites and Spatial Transitions

Across five floors, the hotel accommodates 34 rooms, including four suites. The spatial organization is defined by clarity of form and fluid transitions between functions. In selected rooms, elevated sleeping platforms and partition elements inspired by traditional Japanese noren curtains create a contemporary interpretation of Japanese domestic space.

Material Authenticity and Crafted Details

Materiality plays a central role in the design language. Warm cherry-toned timber, Volakas and Cretan marble, natural textures, and bespoke surface treatments compose interiors with a strong tactile presence and timeless character. Custom lighting elements, flush details, and carefully crafted junctions reinforce a sense of harmony and precision throughout.

A Shoji-Inspired Façade

The architectural identity of the building is expressed primarily through its reimagined façade, inspired by traditional Japanese shoji screens. Vertical metal fins and perforated metal elements act as filters of light and privacy, introducing depth, rhythm, and a constantly shifting perception of the building envelope. At night, linear architectural lighting accentuates the geometry of the composition, strengthening the building’s presence within the urban landscape.

Calmness, Material Sensitivity and Atmosphere

The Darya J Hotel approaches hospitality as an experience defined by calmness, material sensitivity, and carefully composed atmosphere, where Japanese philosophy meets contemporary Athens.

A Top-Floor Apartment Reopened to Light

In Vouliagmeni, Athens, D Flat by Virginia Malami transforms a top-floor apartment open on three sides into a clearer and more luminous domestic interior. In the existing layout, the living areas were oriented in a single direction, leaving the depth of the apartment underlit. The renovation opens the plan from end to end, allowing daylight to travel the full 14.5 metres of the interior from morning to evening.

The project establishes a renewed relationship between active shared spaces and quieter private rooms. Rather than treating the apartment as a sequence of separate rooms, the redesign introduces a continuous spatial order, balancing openness, privacy and the changing presence of light throughout the day.

Three Longitudinal Zones

The plan is organized into three longitudinal zones: a living zone, a central service and infrastructure zone, and a sleeping zone beyond. This division creates a contrast of tempo and atmosphere. The common rooms remain open and flexible, designed to host everyday life in different forms, while the bedrooms are more serene and contained.

The middle band becomes the threshold between these two conditions. It gives thickness to the plan, defines transitions and holds the more technical parts of the apartment, allowing the living areas and bedrooms to retain a sense of calm and clarity.

An Oak Spine for Domestic Infrastructure

At the center of the project is a continuous oak construction that runs along the length of the apartment. It is both furniture and space, a precise architectural element that gathers almost everything newly introduced by the renovation into one continuous system.

The oak spine contains the kitchen, entry coat storage, concealed bedroom doors, a utility cabinet with washing machine, WC, bookshelf and media cabinet. By consolidating these functions, the rest of the plan remains open and uncluttered. A continuous linear light follows the length of the element, turning it after dark into the apartment’s protagonist: an illuminated spine that gives the new program a single, unmistakable presence.

Material Continuity Through Marble and Oak

The material strategy is based on continuity rather than replacement. The existing beige Ioannina marble was preserved as a datum, while new oak was introduced in dialogue with the apartment’s earlier wood presence.

Together, marble and oak create a measured rhythm along the plan through pattern, joints and repetition. Red-and-white striped awnings were also reintroduced, echoing the original elements and carrying their graphic presence into the renewed apartment.

Reuse and Spatial Memory

Reuse forms an integral part of the project’s approach to sustainability and to the respect of what was already there. Where new marble was required in the kitchen after removing parquet, the material was sourced from the demolition rubble of a nearby renovation.

This decision reduces waste while extending the life of an existing material by giving it a new role within the apartment. The renovation therefore works not only with new elements, but also with fragments of material memory that are absorbed into the project’s contemporary organization.

Greek Atmosphere and Swiss Precision

D Flat also reflects the architect’s own trajectory. Raised within a Greek cultural context, with its particular relationship to light, materials and everyday outdoor living, and architecturally formed in Switzerland, where precision and functional clarity are fundamental, the project brings these two registers together without hierarchy.

Local atmosphere and familiar domestic cues are paired with a Swiss-inflected discipline of organization, concentrated infrastructure and concealed transitions. The result is an apartment that feels calm and usable, while retaining a strong relationship to its setting and history.

New Life for an Inherited Apartment

The renovation also acknowledges the personal history of the apartment, which is set within a structure originally built by the architect’s father. Its existing character and spatial memory are treated as material to be worked with, sharpened and carried forward rather than replaced.

Ultimately, D Flat is a project of alignment: plan with sun, new work with existing matter, and contemporary life with inherited character. Through a continuous oak spine, preserved marble and carefully organized light, the apartment is transformed into a calm and precise domestic interior.

A Contemporary Café in the Alpine Borderland

In Tarvisio, a town shaped by its position between Italy, Austria and Slovenia, Caffè Nazionale reopens as a contemporary space of gathering and social interaction. Designed by Elisa Mansutti Architetto, the project brings back to life a name deeply rooted in the town’s collective memory, reinterpreting it through a language of arches, timber, marble and greenery.

Tarvisio lies within a border landscape defined by exchange, transit and arrival. Located between the peaks of the Julian Alps and the Tarvisio Forest, the café draws on this condition of passage and encounter, translating the forms and materials of Alpine tradition into a refined interior for everyday use.

Reinterpreting the Historic Café

The project occupies a large vacant retail unit along the town’s main street, fully glazed toward the exterior and internally structured by a sequence of existing columns. Rather than treating these columns as constraints, the design incorporates them into a rhythmic architectural system that organizes the entire space.

The result is an interior that balances openness and intimacy. The café remains visually connected to the street, while its internal composition introduces a more layered sequence of spaces, allowing different forms of use to coexist throughout the day.

Arches as Permeable Thresholds

The first design gesture was the transformation of the existing columns into a wall articulated by a continuous series of arches. Beginning at the entrance, this arched sequence extends across the length of the interior, filtering the space and establishing a clear spatial rhythm.

The arches distinguish the bistro area from the more intimate lounge without fully separating them. Regular and measured, they operate as permeable thresholds: architectural elements that suggest division while preserving visual continuity and movement.

A Modular Fir Wood System

At the rear of the café, a fir wood backdrop recalls the native tree species of the Tarvisio region. Warm and tactile, this wooden system separates the service areas from the public space, while introducing a material presence directly connected to the surrounding Alpine landscape.

The system is based on a 60 cm module. Vertical timber elements clad the walls and define open shelving for the display of wine bottles. Following the same rhythm, they extend upward into the ceiling, becoming beams and panels that integrate the lighting system. Walls, furniture and ceiling surfaces are therefore linked through a continuous modular order.

Green Marble and the Operational Heart of the Café

The counter forms the operational heart of Caffè Nazionale. Designed in an L-shaped configuration with a central island, it brings together materials that evoke the Alpine environment: fir wood and green marble.

The layout provides generous work surfaces, a raised ledge for quick service and direct access to the basement and staff areas. Functional clarity is combined with material intensity, making the counter both a working element and a visual anchor within the café.

Lounge, High Table and Scenic Greenery

Along the glazed façade, a wooden bench runs parallel to the windows. Upholstered in green leather padding, the seating reinforces the material palette of the interior while offering a comfortable place to linger. Heating elements are integrated behind slatted timber panels, preserving visual continuity while allowing warm air to circulate.

In the lounge area, a large high table in marble is fixed to the floor as a sculptural presence. Solid yet refined, it transforms the area into a place dedicated to conviviality. At the back of the lounge, a raised linear planter clad in glossy green ceramic tiles introduces a living backdrop, bringing the presence of the surrounding landscape into the interior.

Flexible Hospitality for Different Moments of the Day

The layout is designed to support multiple uses, structured around the rhythmic sequence of arches that divides the café into two main zones: the bistro and the lounge. Each area can host different activities while maintaining a coherent overall atmosphere.

From morning breakfasts and brunches to afternoon aperitifs and evening live music, the café can adapt to changing social and cultural programs. The combination of modular elements, open plan and adaptable furniture allows Caffè Nazionale to remain inviting and functional throughout the day.

Alpine Materials and a Renewed Local Identity

The project begins from the existing marble flooring, characterized by shifting tones between forest green and deep reddish brown. This material base informs a wider palette that reinterprets the Alpine context: fir wood for walls and ceiling structures, green expressed through marble, glazed ceramic tiles and textured plaster, and living vegetation completing the composition.

Through these elements, Caffè Nazionale becomes more than a renovated hospitality interior. It is conceived as a place of encounter and identity, in constant dialogue with the town, its landscape and the memory of Tarvisio as a borderland of movement and exchange.

A 1970s Apartment Reimagined Through Curved Geometries

In Glyfada, Grozopoulos+Associates undertook the complete renovation of a 100 sq.m. apartment dating from the 1970s. The original residence carried the typical spatial and material characteristics of its period: separated rooms, standardized layouts, parquet flooring, mosaic surfaces and a fragmented domestic organization.

The owners requested a full redesign that would transform the apartment into a contemporary and welcoming residence, suitable both for private use and short-term rental. Rather than erasing the memory of the existing interior, the design upgrades the apartment according to the needs of contemporary living, while preserving traces of its original atmosphere and material character.

Reorganizing the Plan for Contemporary Living

The renovation involved a significant reworking of the apartment’s layout. The positions of the bathroom and kitchen were exchanged, the corridor was opened up, and the floors and finishes in the kitchen, bathroom and WC were fully replaced.

This reconfiguration allows the apartment to function with greater clarity and fluidity. The former segmentation of the plan gives way to a more open domestic sequence, where the main living areas are visually and functionally connected.

Curves as Spatial and Functional Devices

The central design gesture is the introduction of curved geometries throughout the apartment. These curves appear in the ceilings, in fixed furniture and in movable elements, establishing a consistent spatial language across the residence.

Rather than operating only as a formal motif, the curves also organize the interior. They integrate lighting, soften transitions and define functional zones with subtlety, giving the apartment a sense of continuity without relying on rigid divisions.

A Green Marble Bar-Counter as a Focal Point

The unification of the kitchen, dining area and living room is organized around a linear bar-counter clad in deep green Indian marble. Positioned as both a focal point and an everyday functional element, the counter anchors the open-plan living space.

The natural stone, with its distinctive color and depth, introduces a sense of understated luxury. It is balanced by the wooden surfaces of the new kitchen and by the restored parquet flooring, creating a dialogue between new interventions and the apartment’s existing material memory.

Restored Parquet and the Continuity of Material Memory

The original herringbone parquet was carefully restored and sealed, allowing it to function as a timeless surface that connects the apartment’s past with its new identity. This decision was guided not only by aesthetic and historical considerations, but also by sustainability.

By preserving and reusing the existing floor, the intervention significantly reduced the need for new materials. The restored parquet becomes both a visual foundation and a subtle reminder of the apartment’s former life.

Earthy Tones, Organic Forms and an Urban Retreat

The material and color palette is composed of soft, earthy tones, warm off-whites, natural and dark wood, with stronger accents introduced through furniture and selected details. Contemporary lighting fixtures, furniture, artworks and decorative objects with organic forms reinforce the apartment’s overall character.

Through curved geometries, natural materials and contemporary lines, the renovation establishes a balanced relationship between old and new. The apartment is transformed into a flexible and refined living environment: a quiet urban retreat shaped by clarity, warmth and restraint.

A Retail Interior Conceived as a Journey

Located in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, Travelmar Kaohsiung by FLOAT DESIGN STUDIO transforms a multi-brand luggage store into a layered spatial narrative, where travel, craft and local memory converge. The flagship space is dedicated primarily to Globe-Trotter, the historic British luggage brand founded in 1897, whose handmade cases are known for their distinctive combination of strength and lightness.

The design draws from Globe-Trotter’s visual language — curves, quarter-circles and arches — and reinterprets it through the urban and material context of Kaohsiung. Rather than creating a neutral retail environment, the project establishes a dialogue between brand identity and place. The result is a store that operates not only as a commercial interior, but as a spatial metaphor for departure, movement and return.

Globe-Trotter, Kaohsiung and the Language of the Arch

Kaohsiung’s history as a port city plays a central role in the concept. The image of ships arriving in the city is translated into a spatial system inspired by its gridlike urban fabric. This modular logic informs the display platforms, which can be joined, staggered or stacked according to different retail needs.

At the same time, the warm red-brick palette refers to the city’s material heritage, including its historical production of red brick and the brick-arched structures of the nearby British Consulate at Takao. The arch becomes a shared reference between brand and city: a form associated with Globe-Trotter’s rounded luggage details, but also with the architectural memory of Kaohsiung.

A Street-Front Façade with Red Brick Hues

The façade extends this narrative into the street. As a street-front store, Travelmar uses its exterior as a first gesture of invitation. The storefront is slightly recessed to form a soft diagonal corner, allowing passersby to perceive the depth of the interior while moving through the surrounding arcade.

Red brick tones, curved forms and arched elements distinguish the store from its urban context, while the floor pattern and color gradient draw the eye inward, toward the angled counter and the staircase beyond. From exterior to interior, the curved geometry establishes a sense of continuity, turning the threshold into the beginning of a spatial journey.

Modular Retail Displays Across Three Levels

Inside, the ground floor is dedicated to Globe-Trotter and uses arcs and arches to reinforce the brand’s flagship presence. The second and third floors are conceived with greater flexibility, offering adaptable platforms for other brands.

Lightweight partitions, galvanized panels and reclaimed components introduce a rawer material character, while natural wood elements create a tactile dialogue with the displayed products. The result is a retail environment that can shift according to different collections, without losing the coherence of the overall spatial language.

 

Light, Circulation and Urban Layering

A key challenge of the long, narrow plan was the limited daylight at the rear of the store. To address this, partitions were removed and the stairwell was opened, allowing natural light from the third floor to filter downward through the interior.

Ceiling fixtures follow a grid-like arrangement, echoing the structure of the city while providing a steady rhythm of illumination across the different levels. This light-guided circulation helps visitors move through the store intuitively, as if following a runway or urban route.

A Layered Interior Landscape Inspired by Kaohsiung

The project’s spatial composition is built through layering. Platforms, shelving and display elements stack, shift and interlock, creating an interior landscape that recalls the vertical density of Kaohsiung.

Adjustable modules allow the store to accommodate changing collections, while staggered arrangements break the rigidity of linear display. Visitors move through the space as if through a compact urban field, where changes in height, direction and material produce a continuous sense of discovery.

A Cultural Port for Contemporary Travel

Travelmar Kaohsiung is ultimately conceived as a cultural port: a place where international craftsmanship meets the memory of the city. Through its red-brick hues, arches, modular displays and light-guided circulation, the store frames retail as an experience of movement.

Each suitcase becomes the beginning of a story; each step through the space suggests both departure and return. In this sense, the project transforms the luggage store into an architectural narrative about travel, memory and place.

House of Curves

The residence is a 240m² interior shaped by softness, light and material continuity. Conceived as a calm domestic environment, the project unfolds through fluid transitions and a muted palette, creating a home that changes subtly throughout the day.

 

Design Philosophy

The client, co-owner of a leading fashion brand, wanted the residence to reflect her lifestyle and memories of Mediterranean journeys. References to nature, gentle landscapes and Southern European architecture informed an interior defined by flowing lines, restrained tones and carefully selected natural materials.

Curves become the central design language of the project, appearing in architectural elements, built-in furniture, window niches, countertops and finishing details. More than an aesthetic gesture, these rounded forms diffuse light, soften spatial perception and create an atmosphere of quiet continuity.

 

 

Spatial organization

Achieving this sense of openness required a substantial reorganization of the house, including the reconstruction of the staircase, the opening of the living area and the elimination of sharp corners. At the center of the composition stands a sculptural staircase, designed as a fluid volume rising through the interior. Its asymmetrical form, rounded solid-wood treads and winding balustrade emphasize the precision of the craftsmanship, while connecting adjacent areas such as the study and play zone.

The main living area combines a spacious lounge with an open kitchen and concealed storage. A fireplace is integrated into a long multifunctional unit that also operates as seating, while rounded shelves, subtle ceiling moldings, warm wood tones and crisp white surfaces reinforce the project’s soft minimal character.

 

 

Material Palette

The bathrooms are conceived as private relaxation zones, inspired by spa interiors and Mediterranean serenity. Monolithic bathing areas, recessed alcoves, freestanding bathtubs and walk-in showers are framed by soft geometries and handmade glazed tiles, whose irregular surfaces create delicate variations of light and shadow.

Rounded countertops with integrated basins, hidden shelving, minimalist linear drains and concealed fixtures strengthen the clarity of the design while preserving everyday functionality. Wood, linen, stone and microcement form a tactile material palette, unified by shades of white and grey.

The project stands out through its formal consistency and quiet boldness. Rather than imposing itself, the interior builds character through precision, calm and continuity, creating a home that invites return.

 

Spatial symphony

Tucked within the dense urban fabric of Limassol, the project is conceived as a refined retreat that explores the expressive potential of materiality, light and spatial continuity. The interior unfolds as a carefully curated composition, where tactile surfaces, layered lighting and bespoke details generate an atmosphere that is both intimate and elevated. Each element contributes to a narrative of lived elegance, where design operates not only as a visual language but as an experiential medium.

 

Spatial Organization

The living area develops as a fluid, open-plan environment, where spatial boundaries dissolve in favor of continuity and visual cohesion. A backlit library wall acts as a central architectural gesture, emitting a soft, ambient glow reminiscent of sunset light, while simultaneously functioning as a display system for curated objects and books. This illuminated surface anchors the space, introducing a gallery-like quality to the domestic setting.

Furniture elements are positioned to enhance both comfort and contrast, with a saddle leather grey sofa paired with a vivid red armchair. Full-height glazing extends the interior toward the exterior balcony, establishing a direct visual connection with a vibrant courtyard mural and reinforcing the dialogue between interior and exterior expression.

Material Palette

The kitchen is conceived as the operational core of the residence, balancing everyday functionality with social interaction. Wood cabinetry introduces warmth, while grey stone countertops and integrated appliances articulate a contemporary aesthetic. The central island operates as both workspace and gathering point, seamlessly connecting kitchen, dining and living areas.

In the dining space, a sculptural rose gold chandelier defines the atmosphere, casting diffused light across the black dining table. Upholstered seating and layered table settings introduce a sense of refined informality, while sheer curtains modulate daylight, producing a calm and intimate environment.

 

 

Lighting Design

The bedroom is approached as a sensorial environment, where texture and material layering define spatial identity. Denim-textured wall coverings establish a soft, woven backdrop, framing a sculptural bed upholstered in green textile. Complementary green marble surfaces and leather-wrapped details introduce a nuanced material dialogue, balancing tactility with precision.

Lighting plays a critical role in shaping the atmosphere, with brass-detailed track systems highlighting artworks and surfaces, while a chandelier composed of golden leaf elements introduces a focal, almost scenographic quality. The resulting composition reinforces a sense of intimacy, transforming the bedroom into a contemplative and immersive space.

Overall, the interior design achieves a cohesive synthesis of function, craftsmanship and narrative, aligning seamlessly with the architectural framework of the residence while articulating a distinct and layered domestic experience.

 

Material coherence

Located in São Paulo, the project is conceived with materiality as the central axis of the design and spatial integration as the guiding principle of its architectural organization. The residence articulates a refined architectural language shaped by precision in detailing and a nuanced understanding of contemporary domestic life.

 

Material Palette

Concrete defines the structural and formal expression of the composition, lending the house a distinct urban character. In contrast, freijó wood veneer millwork unfolds continuously throughout the interiors, establishing a cohesive spatial narrative that connects diverse programmatic elements, from the home theater to the guest bedroom. Doors clad in natural banana leaf fibers introduce a layer of texture and tactility, reinforcing the project’s engagement with the expressive potential of materials. The resulting palette establishes a balanced dialogue between rustic references and a contemporary architectural language.

 

 

Spatial Organization

The spatial organization is structured through calibrated degrees of openness and enclosure, enabling a fluid and coherent reading of the house. The kitchen and dining area share a unified visual and material field, allowing for complete integration, while auxiliary functions, such as the wine cellar and support pantry, are accommodated in more contained spatial conditions. Circulation unfolds seamlessly, enhancing the continuity of movement and reinforcing the experiential quality of everyday living.

 

 

Design Philosophy

The relationship between architecture and nature plays a central role in the project’s conception. The gourmet area is organized around an existing tree, which is incorporated as an active spatial element within the design. The garden extends into the interior, operating as a natural continuation of the architectural framework and dissolving the boundary between inside and outside.

On the third floor, dedicated entirely to the couple, the primary suite establishes a direct connection with the exterior through expansive openings. The bathroom, enveloped by vegetation, extends outward to a terrace with a hot tub, amplifying the sensory experience of inhabitation. An adjacent office space is integrated into this level, connected through a custom-designed bookcase that combines storage, library and functional support, maintaining the overall spatial and material coherence.

 

Architecture as a Pluralist Landscape

The project is conceived as a forward-looking architectural statement, aligning the company’s identity with its core values of innovation, technical expertise and long-term sustainability. Bringing together multiple entities with distinct fields of activity, the project articulates a sequence of spatial environments, each expressing an individual corporate character while remaining embedded within a unified architectural framework.

The design unfolds as a layered exploration of form, materiality and atmosphere. Rather than adopting a singular, monolithic identity, the headquarters is conceived as a constellation of environments, each defined by its own formal language, geometry and sensorial qualities, forming a cohesive yet plural spatial experience.

 

Design Philosophy

Within this framework, selected areas adopt a pop-art and postmodern vocabulary, drawing references from the expressive language of Ettore Sottsass and the Memphis School. Through the use of bold colors, graphic patterns and sculptural volumes, these spaces introduce a dynamic and playful spatial rhythm, fostering an environment of creativity and visual stimulation.

In contrast, other zones embrace a raw, industrial aesthetic, echoing contemporary workplace paradigms. Exposed structural elements, carefully calibrated lighting and a palette of honest materials define these environments, where functional clarity is balanced with atmospheric depth.

 

 

Spatial Organization

Complementing these expressive environments, several floors are conceived through a minimalist approach, where spatial restraint, controlled geometries and functional precision become the defining architectural principles. Here, the reduction of form allows for a clear reading of space, emphasizing proportion, light and the essential qualities of the built environment.

This juxtaposition of contrasting spatial languages establishes a dynamic internal landscape, where diversity becomes a key driver of the architectural experience, while coherence is maintained through careful compositional control.

 

 

Biophilic Integration

The project further incorporates biophilic environments, positioning nature and daylight at the core of the spatial composition. Generous planting, filtered natural light and the use of organic textures contribute to a sensorial connection with the natural environment, reflecting the company’s commitment to sustainability and corporate social responsibility.

Together, these distinct spatial conditions form a living, pluralistic headquarters – an architectural ecosystem where each entity inhabits a space aligned with its identity, while collectively contributing to a unified vision grounded in experimentation, innovation and the continuous redefinition of the contemporary workplace.

 

Legible boundaries

The interior design of a 300 m² office space for an insurance company is conceived as a study in transparency, spatial continuity and organizational clarity. The proposal introduces the notion of the “capsule” as a primary morphological and functional device, structuring the workplace through a series of transparent volumes that articulate the program while preserving a continuous visual field throughout the interior.

 

Spatial Organization

Departing from conventional enclosed office typologies, the design employs glass volumes to accommodate private functions such as meeting rooms and executive offices. These “capsules” operate as lightweight architectural insertions within the open-plan layout, allowing natural light to permeate the entirety of the space while maintaining visual connections across departments. The workspace is thus conceived as a unified environment, where boundaries remain legible yet non-restrictive, supporting both collaboration and autonomy.

 

 

Material Palette

Materiality plays a decisive role in shaping the atmosphere of the interior. Exposed cable trays mounted on metal rails, perforated metal panels and glass block partitions foreground the infrastructural and technical dimension of the workspace. In contrast, neutral surfaces introduce a layer of warmth and balance, establishing a dialogue between industrial expression and a more domestic sensibility. This juxtaposition produces a spatial identity that is both precise and inviting.

 

 

Lighting Design

In the entrance, a large-scale perforated metal screen defines the first spatial threshold. Acting as a semi-transparent filter, it subtly delineates the reception area while maintaining visual permeability toward the open workspace beyond. Light and movement diffuse through its perforated surface, enabling a gradual transition from the entrance zone into the interior.

Lighting design further reinforces the spatial reading of the project. Linear fixtures trace the primary axes of circulation, while sculptural and directional lighting elements accentuate specific zones of work and interaction. Combined with the abundant daylight entering through large openings, the lighting strategy enhances the rhythm, depth and clarity of the interior environment.

The resulting workspace is defined by openness, adaptability and a coherent spatial language. Through the interplay of transparency, material contrasts and light, the project fosters a dynamic environment that encourages collaboration while accommodating moments of concentration and privacy within a unified architectural framework.

 

Highlighting the grid

The OTE Headquarters in Athens is the realized architectural study of a multi-storey office building, star-shaped in plan, based on the proposal that was awarded second prize among twelve selected entries. The project concerns the renovation and reconstruction of office and communal spaces from the 2nd to the 13th floor; a decision made in 2019 within the framework of modernization and energy upgrading of the building envelope.

 

Building history and structure

The construction of the original volume began in 1974, with several modifications to the initial plans, while the building was ultimately put into operation in the 1980s, consolidating all services of the “Hellenic Telecommunications Organization.” On a plot of 52 stremmas, a building with a total floor area of 65,000m² was developed.

The new proposal for the interior layout of the office spaces followed the structural grid of the existing shell. The superstructure consists of three rectangular wings, connected through a central circular core of vertical circulation. Each of the 13-storey wings was designed on a vertical structural grid of 1.25×1.25 m, expressed on the façades through external, non-structural, horizontal and vertical reinforced concrete panels. A similar approach is applied to the circular core, where the panels are exclusively vertical and arranged in a radial configuration. Each wing was “divided” into three longitudinal zones, each corresponding to six openings of 1.25m, resulting in a total width of 7.50m per zone.

 

 

Functional organization

In this way, alternative work modules were developed in full correspondence with the building’s structural grid. In the two lateral zones of each wing, both open-plan and enclosed office spaces were arranged, along with dedicated meeting rooms. In these areas, which benefit from natural light and unobstructed views, the arrangement of workstations in two groups of four creates a maximum unit of eight workstations.

The four corner zones of each wing were enclosed with fixed partitions, accommodating special uses, alternating between executive offices, workspaces, collaboration areas, meeting rooms, relaxation zones, creative spaces, rest areas, and spaces for employee retreat.

Movable, flexible, or fixed partitions for integration, repetition, or separation can accommodate – with mechanical precision – all possible conditions of flexibility, functionality, and adaptability. In the central zone, aligned with the structural grid, meeting rooms, sanitary facilities, and support spaces are developed.

 

 

Design Interventions

These include meeting rooms and areas, WCs, a closed kitchen, printing and copying rooms, semi-open meeting booths for private discussions, and open communal spaces for gathering and relaxation. A significant portion is occupied by the existing central core, which houses MEP spaces and the emergency staircase, while a dedicated project/meeting room at the top level, along with the distinctive design and material selection of the entrance area, complete the central zone.

The primary function of the central circular core is circulation and communication, and secondarily, it accommodates auxiliary uses such as WCs and storage areas. Interventions were kept to a minimum, focusing on the refinement of existing material finishes or the localized addition of new ones, the redesign of lighting and ceilings, and the introduction of custom constructions and selected furniture pieces in the radial, curved areas for rest or breaks between the wings.

In one of these areas, the open food service space (cafeteria) was fully upgraded according to specifications, with new elements, lighting, and equipment. Similarly, the WCs were upgraded through the replacement of partitions, claddings, and sanitary fixtures.

 

 

Material Palette

Key parameters in the process of design, selection, and application methods of materials were compliance with the requirements of LEED and WELL Building Standard certification systems.

The construction materials follow the logic of a central design strategy, with consistent choices in flooring, acoustic ceilings, and lighting, combined with numerous variations in claddings, textures, colors, subtle tonalities, material qualities, and furniture equipment. In this way, each wing and floor forms a distinct yet unique visual identity, resulting in a cohesive compositional and aesthetic outcome aligned with the new concept of the study.

The architectural design of the new interior layouts of the headquarters, along with its subtle visual differentiation on the façade (through the replacement of aluminum frames), completes its aesthetic identity, fully implementing the requirements of certification systems, while respecting the existing shell and reinforcing the building’s established presence in the urban consciousness of a major organization.

 

Evolving environment

The interior architecture of the Brazilian headquarters of the global law firm White & Case, emerges from a refined exploration of how local identity can coexist with an international corporate framework. Rooted in a synthesis of tradition and contemporaneity, the project foregrounds the human experience while articulating a spatial narrative shaped by cultural, behavioral, and functional parameters.

 

Design Philosophy

The conceptual approach is grounded in a deep reading of place, where intangible cultural attributes and patterns of use inform the spatial composition. Every design decision, from the incorporation of Brazilian materials and artworks to the selection of furniture by local designers, operates as a deliberate gesture toward expressing identity without resorting to clichés. The result is an environment that is both welcoming and stimulating, fostering engagement through subtle yet meaningful references to locality.

 

 

Spatial Organization

The layout is structured around a continuous and fluid spatial sequence that connects communal areas, such as the reception, café, and landscaped terrace, with private workspaces and meeting rooms. Open-plan workstations are complemented by acoustic solutions, phone booths, and adaptable meeting spaces, supporting a range of working modes. Retractable partitions enable meeting rooms to shift between openness and enclosure, reinforcing a flexible and dynamic office environment. This adaptability extends to the reception area, conceived as a transformable space capable of hosting events or accommodating more formal, everyday functions.

 

 

Material Palette

The material palette draws from natural references, with wood and stone employed to evoke the textures and tones of the Brazilian landscape. A gradual chromatic transition from darker tones at the core to lighter hues toward the perimeter, enhances the perception of depth and spatial progression. Curvilinear elements in floors and partitions, inspired by the work of Roberto Burle Marx, introduce a sense of continuity and movement, reinforcing the project’s fluid spatial identity.

Finally, the project integrates structural and programmatic strategies that anticipate future change. By embedding adaptability into its core, the design responds to evolving workplace demands while addressing the broader issue of spatial obsolescence. The office thus becomes not only a place of work but an evolving environment, capable of renewal, responsive to context, and expressive of both corporate and cultural identity.

 

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.