Renovating an Athenian Mid-War Penthouse

Visual expansion

In the Anaktora area of Kolonaki, a top-floor apartment in a preserved 1930s interwar building is undergoing renovation. The goal is to retain the penthouse’s old Athenian glamour and historic charm while seamlessly integrating contemporary design elements. The result is a harmonious fusion of past and present, creating a cohesive and timeless visual narrative.

Existing Condition

The design process was driven by the goal of preserving as much of the original structure as possible while adapting the interiors to meet modern living needs. This approach resulted in a thoughtful and cohesive synthesis of old and new. Key historic elements -such as the original parquet flooring in the main living areas and bedrooms, the concrete tiles and mosaics in the hallways, sliding oak doors, and intricate plaster ceiling details- have been carefully retained. Meanwhile, new flooring has been introduced in the kitchen and bathrooms, using materials that harmonize aesthetically with the existing ones, ensuring a balanced and cohesive color palette.

Functional Layout

A new wall composition in the living room incorporates an energy-efficient fireplace, while the existing bookshelves in the living and dining areas are reorganized to optimize storage for books and other items. The wall separating the dining room and kitchen is replaced with a glass partition, creating both a functional and visual connection between the two spaces. This design choice enhances the sense of openness, allowing natural light to flow freely and providing unobstructed views of Lycabettus Hill.

Custom Structures

The design maximizes the uninterrupted views of Mount Hymettus and the surrounding urban landscape. In the master bedroom, the bathroom draws inspiration from Japanese architecture, intentionally deviating from conventional renovation trends. Similarly, the bedroom wardrobes are enclosed with curtains instead of doors, incorporating indirect lighting to create a soft, atmospheric, and dreamlike ambiance.