Paragon Brewery & Taproom

In a densely populated district of Athens, a former metal workshop is revitalized into a microbrewery and taproom. With respect to the existing shell, the intervention focuses on transforming the existing building into a fully functionable brewery and a spirited beer hall. 

Industrial style

By incorporating the existing industrial features into the interior design, the building’s architectural identity is formed. Concrete walls with inconspicuous scars, marks from the past, traces of layered paint, metal elements, found items, all integrated with custom-made structures to create a contemporary industrial feel. 

Layout design and material palette

Entering an unfussy entrance, a beer hall experience commences. The open plan taproom and brewery is divided by a huge metal and glass structure, allowing guests to witness the beer production progress, while enjoying the final product. The metal separator is manufactured with exposed reused metal beams while refashioned iron plates form a series of arches. Exposed metal elements are hanging from the high ceiling, above the long U-shaped bar – a key element of the space. The original staircase of the building is retained, leading to the restroom area, where large windows frame the interior. Red-toned lighting above the sinks creates a counterpoint to the dark tones and exposed materials. On the façade, the grid visually links the interior to the exterior, connecting to the urban environment. 

Metal finishes, exposed concrete, inox equipment, found items, reused materials, vertical pendants, square grids, featured arches, layered surfaces – all enhance the uniqueness of the original building by reflecting its own history. 

Mado Samiou Architecture

Nickolas Lagos