Manos Apostolakis Pharmacy

Visual comfort

Located in Heraklion, Crete, this pharmacy embodies a contemporary, clean, and human-centered approach to healthcare design.

Design Philosophy

The design is rooted in the concept of wellness. Drawing minimalist yet clear references from nature, the spatial forms and functional elements evoke the natural world as the original source of mental and physical health. The project reimagines the pharmacy not merely as a place of service, but as an experience -an architectural composition that embodies care, well-being, and comfort.

A harmonious blend of materials, along with deliberate contrasts between light-toned, textured, and smooth metallic surfaces, helps structure the interior into distinct zones. These elements emphasize natural light, enrich the tactile experience, and enhance visual comfort.

Spatial Organization

The pharmacy unfolds over two levels: the ground floor houses the primary display and customer service areas, while the upper level accommodates more private functions. Two centrally placed vertical display elements, paired with low-height seating, serve both as focal points and as tools for guiding movement. The spatial flow is intentionally open and fluid, encouraging visitors to navigate and explore independently.

Custom Elements

At the rear of the space, the service area adopts a warmer, more intimate atmosphere through the use of wood -a material that reinforces the sense of care and familiarity. In the display zone, tall white walls welcome natural light through large openings, enhancing the clarity and transparency of the interior. Above, a metal grid structure on the second level acts as a light filter, creating a rhythmic interplay of light and shadow that enriches the overall sensory experience.