Renovation of two storey building

From home – atelier to exhibition room, the renovation and conversion of a two floor building initially designed by Aristomeni Proveleggio. A complex of two buildings, on the corner of number 8 Kykladon Street and Kefallinias, were the living quarters and atelier of the Spiteri couple. Spiteris, was one of Greece’s first art critics who also built an international career, Ioanna Spiteri was an important sculptor. The couple initially resided in the building on the corner, built during the first decades of the 20th century. In 1955 they commissioned to Aristomeni Proveleggio the design and construction of a small building next to their home. This would hold Ioanna Spiteris’ atelier. Aristomenis for many years collaborated closely with Le Corbusier in Paris, whereof he then set-up his own office. Proveleggios was one of Greece’s most prominent architects, not only for his structured work, that was notably eclectic, but also for his stance towards society, his radical beliefs and didactical work. His work as well as his writings are a constant reminder of the way by which architecture can and must alter what is taken for granted. In 2006, following many years of hard work, and with the help of Deni Zaharopoulou and the artist Diohantis (Loumidou), the architects Dionisis Sotovikis and Kirki Mariolopoulou were able to purchase the building (Spiteri atelier). The purpose of the purchase was not only to restore the building, but also to safeguard its continuation as a space of contemporary expression. When bought, the building was in relatively good condition, and wasn’t significantly dilapidated. The architects aim through restoration work-reconstruction, was to “unpeel” the signs of age and come as close as possible to the original features born by Proveleggios. At the same time the infrastructure was modernised in order to adjust to today’s needs without altering the original feeling of the space. Loraine Alimadiri and the Gazonrouge gallery contributed significantly to the exploration of its re-use, essentially it was her respect and great interest in the building that lead to the completion of the project.