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.

 

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.

 

 

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.

 

Organic aesthetic

The restaurant is located in the picturesque neighborhood of Ano Petralona, in the heart of Athens. Although close to the city’s bustling center, the project exudes an introverted charm, reflecting the warm atmosphere of its surroundings. The strong materiality, combined with a dark color palette, is carefully balanced with the organic interior, creating a welcoming and intimate space.

 

Functional layout

A key element of the design is the open kitchen at the rear of the restaurant, visible from every point within the interior. Against this backdrop, two dining areas are arranged on different levels, organized around a centrally positioned, curved open bar. Guests are able to observe the activity in the kitchen while experiencing the various design details and the interplay of materials across the surfaces.

The bar at the front of the restaurant serves as an inviting point of arrival before the dining areas. With three distinct seating options, guests may choose to sit along the central bar, directly facing the lively open kitchen, or in a cozy corner of the second dining room, which offers greater privacy and seclusion.

Custom-made elements

To enhance the distinct experience of each individual zone and to minimize distractions from external stimuli, semi-transparent curtains are used along the glazed façade, preventing direct visual contact with the busy street. The connection to the surroundings is achieved through an operable roof, which allows views of the sky and introduces a sense of openness and freshness into the dining area.

 

 

Materials & furnishings

The design concept focuses on texture, emphasizing the use of natural materials to infuse the space with authenticity. Vertical surfaces are clad in custom-made terracotta tiles, reinforcing the organic character, while the floors and the central bar feature rough-textured tiles. The main dining area is finished with custom-applied terrazzo, adding a playful note to the otherwise earthy, matte environment through its subtle reflections. Throughout the project, emphasis is placed on craftsmanship and handmade elements at every scale, from flooring to ceramic vases.

The lighting fixtures – wooden wall sconces and suspended ceramic pendants – as well as the ceramic decorative elements, were custom-designed and crafted to achieve the desired aesthetic. Upholstery fabrics, ranging from leather and suede to linen in a variety of tones, were carefully selected to enhance the natural and harmonious atmosphere of the space.

 

An urban canteen

Tanpopo is the Japanese word for the dandelion plant and the title of a cult Japanese film from 1985 that follows the story of a young mother who is taught by a truck driver how to make the perfect bowl of ramen. It is also a distinctive space tucked away behind Klafthmonos Square, where Japanese food is served in a casual, canteen-like atmosphere that feels as if it is set directly on the sidewalk.

 

Design Philosophy

The design intent was to blur the boundaries between public and private space, bringing the act of cooking into constant interaction with passersby. Spatially, this idea is expressed through the placement of the food preparation area on the façade, at the core of the flow between the street and the interior. The peripherally open kitchen is housed within a metal solid that rises to a double height and is integrated into the space without relying on the existing structural elements, even allowing for the possibility of being relocated.

 

 

Spatial Organization

In this way, the kitchen functions as an independent universe with its own rhythm and rules. The unobstructed visibility of all food preparation processes enhances the sense of immediacy, while simultaneously transmitting the pulse of the kitchen to the visitors. Points of interaction and meeting between the two worlds – preparation and consumption – are formed by the food counters, where the chef serves the ramen directly to the guests.

 

 

Material Palette

The materials selected to dress the fast and ephemeral eat-and-go concept are raw in character, with metal taking a dominant role. Stainless steel surfaces in the kitchen interior combine with the prevailing grey tones and Aliveri marble details in the seating area, creating a sense of continuity. The variety of textures and the transition from the smoothness of stainless steel to the roughness of plastered walls and processed bush-hammered marble create tactile differentiation, while the color palette visually unifies the space, placing preparation and consumption in a constant negotiation of boundaries and differences.

The design is completed with wooden counters that evoke memories of traditional street canteens, making the atmosphere more familiar while enhancing functionality and circulation flow. The particular emphasis on the harmonious interplay of materials and structures aims to enrich the overall concept, highlighting the authenticity of the brand.

 

 

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.

 

 

Skrew is an all-day bar-restaurant designed for relaxation and socializing, serving as a favorite meeting point for its guests from morning until late at night. The owners’ desire for a fresh yet timeless space, housed within an existing industrial building, defined the overall design approach. The interior preserves the restrained aesthetic of exposed concrete while incorporating distinctive features, such as a striking bar set against a 3.5-meter-high backdrop and a counter clad in tin. The dining area offers a variety of seating options, including banquettes paired with custom-designed marble tables and vintage chairs. At the rear, the open kitchen with its glass frontage adds vibrancy and a sense of interaction. The presence of plants, combined with a diverse selection of furniture and architectural elements, creates a layered experience, with different spatial qualities unfolding in every corner.

 

 

 

 

In designing the restaurant, the aim was to create a non-conventional space that would actively engage visitors in an experience highlighting the values of art, design, and gastronomy, translating them into tangible forms, materials, and textures. The existing restaurant features a distinctive double-height space with a mezzanine and a spiral staircase, while its façades are clad with large metal openings that provide full visual permeability throughout the interior. Upon entering, visitors encounter the central dining zone, arranged in an open-plan layout with seating, the bar and its counter, and an open kitchen at the rear, allowing guests to observe the food preparation process.

 

 

For more than 120 years, Aigli has been a focal point of Athenian social life. Since its beginnings in 1904 as a small café beside the neoclassical Zappeion building, it has evolved into a shared point of reference for the city. The new Aigli draws on this legacy, while aiming to broaden its reach and become more inclusive, open, and dynamic. The first step in shaping the design proposal was a careful analysis of the existing building and the public space of which it forms an integral part. This process led to the development of a design language that is both classical and contemporary, acknowledging and utilizing the existing decorative elements -columns, marble patterns, and intricate woodwork- without allowing them to take on a dominant role that would compromise everyday use.

 

 

 

07. Mostaza | Muro Studio

 

 

 

Dessert arcade

The central objective for the ground floor of a 1960s building in the Metropolis area was the creation of a “Sweet Arcade”: a multi-layered venue that would need to accommodate a production laboratory, a retail area, and a dessert restaurant.

 

Cultural Context

The concept that emerged during the design process drew inspiration from the Athenian arcade. This archetypal form of a covered yet freely accessible space seamlessly connects commerce, social gathering, and leisure. The first arcade built on Athenian soil, at Kapnikarea Square, was constructed in 1883 to designs by Ernst Ziller, within the four-storey neoclassical Melas Mansion, featuring a “glass-roofed passage” modeled after the Parisian galeries made of metal and glass.

Among the most vital nodes of commercial life, arcades were primarily thematic, functioning as hubs for specific activities or types of retail. Initially conceived as spaces for the concentration of goods, they ultimately evolved to “serve the pursuit of pleasure in the city, through strolling and other forms of entertainment.”

 

 

Design Philosophy

Inspired by the commercial arcade and motivated by its inclusive vibrancy, the pastry shop is designed primarily using metal and glass. It is articulated as a sequence of three distinct spatial units (shops), each with its own façade (shopfront) facing an elongated, central shared space -the arcade.

The olive-green arcade, measuring 9×3m and featuring the original mosaic flooring, forms along its entire outer edge the main, twin entrance. A slender, elongated structure placed along the central axis organizes movement, provides a functional counter surface, and supports suspended, illuminated planting that enhances the sense of a public, open space. Flanking the entrance and extending to the back, metal and textured glass define the shopfronts of the three units as well as the passage leading to the restrooms.

 

 

Spatial Organization & Materials

The retail shop on the left and the restaurant on the right are located behind two facing metal arches that act as thresholds to the respective spaces. In the first, a brightly lit central table of white marble displays the products, adjacent to a luminous wall of glass blocks that filters the constant activity of the laboratory beyond. In the second, warm orange tiles, wooden tables, and subdued lighting create an inviting dining room for à la carte desserts.

At the rear, behind a retractable partition, lies the production laboratory. It comes alive in the afternoon, when its lights are turned on and its window opens, revealing the chef -now visible to the public- preparing the sculptural plates, the true protagonists of the Sweet Arcade.

 

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.

 

Simple aesthetic

For more than 120 years, Aigli has been a focal point of Athenian social life. Since its beginnings in 1904 as a small café beside the neoclassical Zappeion building, it has evolved into a shared point of reference for the city. The new Aigli draws on this legacy, while aiming to broaden its reach and become more inclusive, open, and dynamic.

 

Existing Building

The first step in shaping the design proposal was a careful analysis of the existing building and the public space of which it forms an integral part. This process led to the development of a design language that is both classical and contemporary, acknowledging and utilizing the existing decorative elements -columns, marble patterns, and intricate woodwork- without allowing them to take on a dominant role that would compromise everyday use.

While historically the building was inward-looking, the new design highlights the natural beauty of the surrounding gardens by opening up views and access wherever possible. A primary objective was for the architecture of the new Aigli to be unique and heterogeneous, with each of its diverse spaces -the All-Day Café, the restaurant, the cinema, the event, music, and art halls, among others- possessing a distinct identity, all connected through a shared “DNA” of design elements and materials.

 

 

Spatial Organization

The All-Day Café consists of both indoor and outdoor areas with a total capacity of 320 seats, drawing inspiration from the tradition of large cafés of the 19th century in Greece and Europe. Four key gestures organize and define the character of the project.

First, the interior floors and the walls up to bar height are clad in locally quarried green Tinos marble, with the marble edges left rough, as if in an outdoor garden. Second, a 20-meter-long marble bar dominates the historic space, incorporating stations for coffee, juices, cocktails, food, and a DJ booth. Third, a large interior window opens onto the central kitchen, creating a lively, theatrical backdrop within the dining area. Similar openings at the rear of the kitchen connect both the café and the kitchen to the garden. Finally, to further strengthen this connection, two large planters with ficus trees are positioned at the center of the hall.

In contrast to the vibrant atmosphere of the All-Day Café, the restaurant is conceived as a sequence of smaller spaces that foster intimacy and understated luxury. Nestled among the foliage of the garden trees, its interior and exterior areas are designed to fully embrace views of the surrounding landscape and the Acropolis. A key intention of the design was to ensure that visitors can fully experience and enjoy the natural beauty around them.

 

 

Materials & Furnishings

The existing red-and-white triangular marble floor pattern was revealed and restored, a geometry that is echoed in the contemporary wooden pattern of the ceiling. Along the perimeter, generous booth-style seating was designed, while a sculptural bar establishes a central axis around which the restaurant’s activity revolves. Layers of color and texture, expressed through custom-designed furniture and fabrics, contribute to a rich and welcoming dining atmosphere.

 

 

Handcrafted aesthetic

In designing the restaurant, the aim was to create a non-conventional space that would actively engage visitors in an experience highlighting the values of art, design, and gastronomy, translating them into tangible forms, materials, and textures.

 

Spatial Organization

The existing restaurant features a distinctive double-height space with a mezzanine and a spiral staircase, while its façades are clad with large metal openings that provide full visual permeability throughout the interior. Upon entering, visitors encounter the central dining zone, arranged in an open-plan layout with seating, the bar and its counter, and an open kitchen at the rear, allowing guests to observe the food preparation process.

With a strong emphasis on detail, custom-made marble tables were designed, along with stainless-steel chairs featuring cushions made of flexible gel, introducing an unusual, soft tactile quality. The floor is finished with a mosaic composed of various Greek marble fragments, combined with bespoke ceramic tiles by artist Vasilis Papageorgiou.

 

 

Materials & Furnishings

Although wood in its natural tone appears to dominate at first glance, the design also incorporates materials with a more robust character, such as stainless steel and marble, which are seamlessly absorbed by the warmth and softness of the wood.

A central feature of the space is a sculptural light tube that rises to the ceiling and draws the eye from every direction, even from outside the restaurant. A handcrafted wool-and-silk rug by artist Yannis Varelas adorns the wall in front of the luminous column, becoming a focal point through its rich chromatic variety. The interplay of these two key elements creates an atmosphere of warmth and comfort, further enhanced by ambient lighting from smaller pendant fixtures and wall sconces.

 

 

Staircase Design

The stainless-steel staircase at the rear introduces a distinctive geometry to the space and leads visitors to the mezzanine, which is lined with wooden, wall-mounted wine libraries. This function extends to the basement as well, where the entrance resembles a wooden tunnel illuminated by a 90-degree light tube that continues the vertical column from the ground floor.

 

Simple aesthetic

Skrew is an all-day bar-restaurant designed for relaxation and socializing, serving as a favorite meeting point for its guests from morning until late at night. The owners’ desire for a fresh yet timeless space, housed within an existing industrial building, defined the overall design approach.

 

Design Philosophy

The interior preserves the restrained aesthetic of exposed concrete while incorporating distinctive features, such as a striking bar set against a 3.5-meter-high backdrop and a counter clad in tin. The dining area offers a variety of seating options, including banquettes paired with custom-designed marble tables and vintage chairs. At the rear, the open kitchen with its glass frontage adds vibrancy and a sense of interaction. The presence of plants, combined with a diverse selection of furniture and architectural elements, creates a layered experience, with different spatial qualities unfolding in every corner.

 

 

Spatial Layout

A key element of the restaurant is the sculptural metal staircase leading to the secluded mezzanine, which also functions as a display surface for wines. Its industrial character reinforces the identity of the building, while its bold color introduces an artistic accent within the otherwise neutral setting. The upper level accommodates a lounge area, ideal for working or reading during the day, as well as a retail corner featuring a curated selection of accessories and clothing.

 

 

Material Palette

The existing terrazzo flooring, with its three-color composition, lends a nostalgic touch to the space. Yellow leather details on the bar stools complement the overall color palette. The combination of diverse styles and textures -raw concrete, polished cement, glass blocks, and the leather-clad bar front- creates an atmospheric and dramatic setting. The final result is a two-level space that blends pop and classic culture, luxury and informality, quiet daytime moments and vibrant nightlife.

 

Baroque reflections

Semiramis, owned by collector Dakis Joannou, belongs to a portfolio of unique hotels designed by internationally acclaimed designers. When it first opened in the early 2000s, Karim Rashid’s bold interior design caused a stir in Kifissia, challenging the prevailing suburban aesthetics. Over time, a series of renovations gradually disconnected the bar-restaurant from the hotel’s original identity. The new space, Koumkan, is once again woven into the DNA of Semiramis, reflecting contemporary cultural, gastronomic, and social trends of Athens.

 

Design Philosophy

Koumkan combines the singular identity of Semiramis with the timeless atmosphere of grand hotel lounges, reframed through a minimalist lens. By staging a sequence of distinct atmospheres, it creates a microcosm that encapsulates the character of iconic hotel reception spaces around the world. Visitors descend a travertine staircase toward a garden that is reflected in the mirrors cladding the wall.

A large revolving door leads into the Foyer, a soft pink reception space illuminated by gentle, diffuse lighting. Two symmetrically composed travertine slabs, framed by mirrors, articulate the notion of luxury through an emphatic gesture, highlighting the inherent value of an almost empty space. A concealed door opens to the Parlor, the first bar area, entirely clad in dark green Tinos marble. This stone -long considered inexpensive due to its irregular discolorations- is transformed into banquettes, a DJ booth, shelving, and a bar, as if all had been carved from a single monolith. The mirrored ceiling expands the space, while vintage stainless-steel sconces and a custom chandelier offer warm, indirect light.

 

 

Spatial Organization

The room, reminiscent of an underground chamber, has an enclosed atmosphere that juxtaposes raw materials with refined details. Beyond the Parlor, two corridors frame the Grande Salle, a lounge, cocktail bar, and restaurant defined by its kaleidoscopic atrium, lined with 7-meter-high mirrors. Custom pendant lights with reflectors create the effect of a disco ball turned inside out. Curved banquettes form boomerang-shaped arrangements that appear to float above a light pink coconut-fiber carpet.

Freestanding banquettes in the center become focal points, while the tables along the walls offer enhanced privacy. A “banana bar” in pink travertine emerges within the space, accentuating its dynamic curves. The aesthetic of the Grande Salle draws inspiration from the abstract paintings of British artist William Streng, characterized by dark and light fleshy tones in patterns resembling skin markings.

 

 

Materials & Furnishings

Custom fabrics dyed using traditional techniques and textured plaster finishes intensify the space’s raw character. The Grande Salle extends into the Grotto, a sheltered outdoor lounge that connects the interior to the pool area. This cave-like environment is formed through the use of local materials and handcrafted treatments.

The Grotto wraps around the curve of the pool, evoking tropical modernism and the architectural heritage of the West Coast. Walls of peach-toned terracotta and pastel pink travertine amplify the warm hue of the lighting, while the pool bar, shaped like an inverted ziggurat, complements the laid-back, elegant design. Its level sits slightly below the pool waterline, positioning the eye at swimmer height and staging an intriguing visual interplay alongside the social ambiance. Throughout the project, a blend of antiques, commissioned artworks, and custom furniture revives the retro-futuristic character of the original Semiramis.

Standout elements include chrome-plated stainless-steel chairs inspired by the 1950s Mediterranean Riviera style, oversized ceramics by Elina Vassilaki, and mirrors by Olga Miliaressi-Foka. The space also features works by emerging artists from the Joannou collection, such as Elli Ioannou’s black chairs and Alexandra Ndore’s provocative Mama Issues at the entrance. Koumkan preserves the spirit of an interwar bar in Milan or Vienna, replacing traditional décor with an idiosyncratic architectural approach. Its spatial layout -with multiple sequential rooms, reflective ceilings, and a contemporary baroque sensibility- creates a new destination in Athens for both visitors and locals.

 

Strict geometries

Lucky No 5 is an espresso and aperitivo bar housed within a two-story building. Situated in the heart of the city, the project reimagines the urban bar as a space that breaks from convention, merging industrial rawness with a vivid pop sensibility. The result is an interior that feels both authentic and playful – a setting where everyday ritual meets expressive design. The concept sought to create a venue with a distinctly urban character, defined by strict lines, essential geometries, and an absence of decorative excess. The aesthetic draws from industrial influences infused with pop-inspired energy, resulting in a space that is direct, structured, and visually engaging.

 

Design Philosophy

Within the 38m² ground floor, the layout was carefully organized to accommodate the main bar, the product preparation zone, and a compact support area for production. The first floor, spanning 25m², houses the restroom and an additional open space. Located at the corner of a narrow urban arcade, the bar fully embraces its distinctive position. Large window frames and a continuous counter dissolve the boundary between interior and exterior, inviting guests to sit comfortably both inside and along the façade. This gesture transforms the small footprint into an open, fluid environment, extending the café-bar’s atmosphere into the public realm and creating a lively interaction between the sheltered arcade and the vibrant interior.

 

 

Spatial Organization

At the heart of the composition lies the bar, the social and visual nucleus of the space. Its green metal base and crisp, minimal surfaces convey strength and precision, while slender blue stools with circular seats introduce a light, playful rhythm. Behind the counter, open deep-blue shelving integrates functional elements – glasses, tools, ingredients – into the visual identity of the bar, blending utility and design.

Lighting defines the atmosphere and transitions of the space. Linear fixtures accentuate the exposed industrial ceiling, while spherical wall lamps soften the mood with a theatrical note. A violet LED strip behind the bar adds depth and a subtle club-like character, allowing the ambiance to evolve fluidly from daytime espresso bar to nighttime aperitivo lounge.

 

 

Branding & Materials

Light blue metal chairs and tables echo the cheerful tones of the interior, while a striped orange-and-blue awning lends the façade a recognizable, upbeat identity. Illuminated signage above the entrance and the violet glow emanating from within draw attention to the energy of the space. Upon entry, the eye is immediately caught by the bold three-dimensional signage on the mezzanine; more than a branding element, it serves as an architectural centerpiece and a defining visual landmark.

The material palette is guided by contrast. Exposed concrete and worn plaster reveal the building’s history, forming a raw, industrial backdrop that lets color and light take prominence. The terrazzo-style flooring introduces subtle texture and resilience, balancing the intensity of the surrounding hues. Together, these elements establish a dialogue between permanence and playfulness.

Green, blue, and orange dominate the space’s chromatic identity. These vibrant tones infuse the space with pop dynamism, while the neutral terrazzo flooring and raw architectural surfaces maintain visual balance. This interplay of opposites – industrial honesty and pop exuberance – shapes a bar that is more than a place for coffee or cocktails. It becomes a design experience: a microcosm where structure meets spontaneity, precision meets play, and urban authenticity finds expression in color and light.

 

Alternating surfaces

The project is an all-day bar-restaurant located on Evia’s Lake, in Greece. Its interior design combines classic and contemporary elements praising the building ’s neoclassical character.

 

Functional Layout

The interior space has a central arrangement with the bar at the back, and large openings on the façade, maximizing the view towards the lake. The building ’s original form guided the distribution of table seats. Various seating types occurred, from linear banquettes and booths to a central sofa element and free-standing chairs accompanied by custom made marble top tables with wooden frames. The exterior seating arrangement combines fer forgé chairs, striped patterned sofa cushions and wooden tables.

 

Design Philosophy

The goal from the beginning was to create a welcoming and atmospheric space recalling moments from the past. The concept draws inspiration from the Art Deco era, which is attributed through an abstract and modern approach. A significant design aspect that brings us back to the ‘20s in popular European capitals, is the black and white marble mosaic flooring with the marble skirting. The well-known pattern merged with the brightness of white marble pieces reminds us of traditional Parisian bistros.

 

 

Materials & Furniture

Marble is also carefully placed on the floor of the bar area, creating an elegant separation between bar and dining hall. The elements made of wood, the bright hues of the walls and flooring along with the dark green touches of the sofa and ceiling, the brass details of the lighting fixtures and the colorful vitraux, form a fresh palette of contrasts. The space is characterized by continuous alterations between smooth and embossed surfaces, sharp and curved forms, solid and transparent elements. Natural plants are integrated in the central sofa volume to add an overall summer feeling to the interior.

 

Visual identity

The restaurant’s design draws inspiration from the untamed natural beauty of Mykonos, which serves as a stunning backdrop. The selection of materials and furnishings was carefully guided by the intent to emulate and celebrate this wild landscape, resulting in an environment that seamlessly blends rugged authenticity with user-friendly comfort.

 

Context Integration

The defining feature of the site is a majestic rock formation that dominates its eastern boundary. This rock was created during the quarrying of stone for the island’s port reconstruction in the 1960s. Over time, erosion left parts of the rock at risk of detachment, prompting reinforcement with vertical concrete buttresses, clad in natural Mykonos stone to blend seamlessly with the surroundings.

The design emphasizes the rock’s presence throughout the project, extending from the entrance to the final daybed, creating a sense of unity and cohesion. The restaurant is situated on a series of terraces that follow the natural slope of the terrain, preserving the contours of the hill as it existed before its partial destruction.

 

Spatial Layout

The entrance to the restaurant is located at the rear of the plot, accessed through an open-air corridor that connects with the illuminated rock. This corridor leads to the heart of the space, where the view opens up to reveal the sea and the sunset. On one side, the main restaurant area unfolds, while the secondary functions and food preparation spaces are situated at the back of the layout. The dining tables are arranged in an open-plan configuration at the front, offering uninterrupted views of the sea. On the opposite side, beneath the rock, is the bar area, designed with a more laid-back atmosphere, surrounded by palm trees and integrated into the landscaped surroundings.

 

Exterior Design & Materials

The infinity pool, stretching along the length of the restaurant, features wooden platforms measuring 3×3 meters. In the morning, these platforms serve as daybeds beneath the shade of palm trees, while in the evening, they transform into intimate settings for a romantic dinner. The natural contours of the rock and its organic forms inspired the design of concave and convex configurations, which add a touch of romance to the arrangement of the elements. The walls, canopies, and other secondary features, primarily crafted from stone and wood, contribute to the atmosphere and texture of the space, seamlessly integrating the restaurant into the surrounding natural environment.

Interactive environment

Blending 1960s influences with retro-futuristic designs, the store is a modern space that emphasizes the drama and artistry of coffee brewing.

 

Spatial Layout

The entrance is located in the middle of the three façade openings, leading to an initial zone of linear table seating. The store interior features an open-plan layout, with the main bar centrally positioned and table seating arranged along the perimeter to frame the walls. A corridor extends to the restrooms and further to the staff and product preparation areas. The central bar, crafted from stainless steel to accentuate its futuristic aesthetic, incorporates an internal conveyor belt at shelf height. This innovation transforms the counter into a dynamic “carousel,” where the continuous movement and mechanical delivery of coffee add a theatrical dimension to the space.

 

Materials & Furniture

The furniture features sofas with wooden frames and leather seats, complemented by minimalist chairs and tables with metallic finishes. The building’s existing roof structure was preserved and fitted with custom-made fixtures, covering a total of 105m². These fixtures, manufactured in sections and suspended, highlight the space’s industrial aesthetic. Plaster elements with cast moldings adorn the walls, adding a refined touch. Meanwhile, materials such as wood, metal, and tiles with geometric patterns evoke a sense of nostalgia. Along the perimeter, 72 frames were installed, each telling a story through concepts and graphic depictions of the human relationship with coffee.

 

Brand Identity

Large velvety teal curtains seamlessly integrate with the surrounding materials and can occasionally obscure the shop’s operations from passers-by. Every element of the space -along with the corporate identity, printed materials, packaging, staff attire, and serving items- has been carefully chosen to perfectly capture and convey the intended sense of character.

Monastic aesthetics

The project focuses on the creation of a restaurant-brewery inspired by the rich traditions of Belgian monasteries, which historically, have been the heart of beer production and fermentation. By blending the timeless allure of monastic style with touches of luxury, the concept offers an authentic and unique gathering experience.

 

Spatial Layout

The floor plan is thoughtfully divided into three functional sections. The first is a linear semi-outdoor space, positioned parallel to the open side of the building. The second is a central corner-shaped seating area. The third zone features the central bar, an open kitchen extending from it, and auxiliary spaces located at the rear of the establishment.

The entrance, situated at the center of the floor plan, leads through the semi-outdoor zone, where table seating is arranged on an elevated wooden platform. Upon passing through a large double wooden door, guests are greeted by a custom-made copper structure resembling a traditional fermentation cauldron. Next to this centerpiece is the central visitor area, furnished with large dining tables, stand-alone tables, and sofas lining the walls to create an inviting and versatile atmosphere.

 

Materials & Lighting

The interior design embodies a commitment to tradition and artistry, with every detail paying homage to the architecture of historic monasteries. Textured copper accents dominate much of the space, symbolizing the harmonious blend of old and new. Stone-clad arches further evoke a sense of timelessness. A striking illuminated wall of beer bottles introduces a modern touch, while wooden surfaces, rustic elements, and discreet lighting work together to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The design encourages guests to embark on a flavorful journey through an extensive selection of spirits.

 

Aesthetics & Decoration

The monastic aesthetic seamlessly features refined elegance and cultivates an atmosphere of serenity. This evocative ambiance is further enriched by large-scale paintings portraying monochromatic figures of monks, deepening the connection between tradition and modernity. Simultaneously, prominent metal ceiling installations introduce an industrial edge, adding a bold contrast to the overall design.

Modest simplicity

The wine bar and restaurant, tucked away in a dimly lit alley off Patission, preserves and enhances the quintessential elements of a traditional Athenian building. Its unique operation blends the characteristics of a Greek café, a French brasserie, and a Japanese jazz bar, offering a distinctive and multifaceted experience.

 

Design Philosophy

The choice to prepare traditional dishes exclusively in wood-burning stoves, the focus on natural wines, and the use of analog sound for the music have established a sense of unpretentious simplicity with minimal intervention. The structure is preserved, while the materials used in architectural modifications were deliberately left raw and unrefined. The view of the street, which is narrower compared to the spacious interior, was designed to surprise visitors. A heavy velvet curtain guides the transition, revealing the double-height ceiling and the full dimensions of the space beyond.

 

Functional Layout

On the right side of the space, a single 16-meter Z-shaped bar in matte stainless steel anchors the ground floor, seamlessly connecting the open kitchen with the bar area. Overhead, a 6-meter-long handmade black marble luminaire accentuates the linear design. At the center, the DJ booth highlights the pivotal role of music in the venue’s atmosphere. The mezzanine features a custom-made metal cabinet, spanning its full height, housing vinyl records, stereo speakers, and memorabilia -an homage to Japanese “jazz kissa” bars.

On the left, a large P-shaped sofa embodies the spirit of Greek sociability, flanked by marble dining tables paired with bistro chairs. Behind the sofa, mirrors and linear lighting fixtures create a dynamic interplay of reflections, enhancing the sense of space. The loft is dedicated to wine tasting, featuring a grand marble monastic table and a purpose-built cellar showcased behind a glass display. The basement accommodates storage and sanitary facilities, with walls clad in carefully arranged wood repurposed from the ovens, adding warmth and authenticity to the design.

 

Material Palette

The color palette draws inspiration from the stones of the existing mosaic, a hallmark of modern Athens, featuring shades of deep red, ochre, and green. Reflecting this, the vertical surface beneath the bar is crafted from ribbed concrete in a green tone, while the liquor cabinet combines smooth terracotta-colored concrete with dark metal accents.

In the sanitary areas, green dominates, maintaining harmony with the overall aesthetic. The building’s structural elements and partitions, made of concrete and stone, are left uncoated to preserve their raw texture. Scattered throughout the space, small travel souvenirs and ceramic works by Nikos Vallatos add unexpected charm and character. The result is a wine bar-restaurant that feels authentically Athenian in its materials and details yet carries stories from across the globe.

Ethnic influences

The 120m² café in Maroussi is thoughtfully designed to cater to diverse needs, offering a versatile space that transitions seamlessly from a relaxed café setting to a welcoming environment for work. Its aesthetic harmoniously blends European sophistication with vibrant ethnic accents.

 

Design Philosophy

The café’s name, inspired by the dragon plant native to Africa, sets the tone for its interior design, where African-inspired decorations and motifs take center stage. A vibrant green theme is prominently featured in the ceiling, window frames, and various elements, including metal hanging structures, shelving, and stands that frame the perimeter of the columns.

 

Plan Layout

The space features two large, wood-paneled monastic tables designed to accommodate both groups and work teams, along with smaller tables paired with a sofa lining the wall. The coffee counter spans the entire width of the floor plan and is adorned with a perforated white pattern, while the wall behind it, along with the supporting structures, is finished with matching white tiles.

 

Decoration, Materials & Vegetation

A standout feature preserved from the site’s original state is the mosaic floor, which adds a distinctive charm to the design and evokes elements of Greek domestic architecture. The exposed roof with prominent installations introduces an urban aesthetic, contrasting beautifully with the lush greenery, planted accents, and bamboo pendant lights. Strategically placed perimeter openings blur the lines between interior and exterior spaces, while a highly-photographed mural of a female portrait serves as the café’s focal point. This artwork not only decorates the wall but also symbolizes a vibrant and passionate female spirit.

Theatrical atmosphere

Located in the heart of Kifissia, this restaurant exemplifies understated luxury and culinary artistry. Its design embraces minimalism, drawing inspiration from the principles of Japanese aesthetics.

 

Functional Organization

The restaurant’s floor plan is elegantly divided into two horizontally aligned zones: a covered indoor area and an open-air section, subtly differentiated by a small elevation change. Guests can access the outdoor zone either via the main entrance, which features an external walkway to the right, or directly from within the restaurant.

The outdoor area is a distinctive courtyard defined by its striking metal structure, shaped like an L-shaped grid. This architectural feature, paired with lush greenery, creates a visually captivating frame for the stone bar that serves as the space’s focal point. Dark-toned dining chairs and a beautifully illuminated tree add to the ambiance, perfectly complementing the interplay of metal and stone elements to craft an inviting and atmospheric setting.

 

Interior Layout

The interior design showcases the essence of Japanese architectural tradition, with a striking wooden trapezoidal ceiling intricately crafted to resemble a woven jug. The seating arrangement is thoughtfully varied, featuring round and rectangular tables as well as comfortable sofas, positioned either along the perimeter or freely dispersed throughout the central area. A bronze-toned metal prismatic bar serves as a focal point near the main entrance, seamlessly blending function and style. Meanwhile, the utility spaces and restrooms are discreetly located at the rear of the floor plan, ensuring an uncluttered layout.

 

Material Palette & Lighting Design

The color palette unfolds as a harmonious symphony of earthy monochromes, enriched by the natural textures of stone walls and handmade concrete floor tiles. Adding a vibrant contrast, a blue porcelain wall, inspired by traditional Japanese art, punctuates the space with elegance. Lighting has been meticulously designed to enhance the mystical ambiance of the high-ceilinged room, casting a warm glow that accentuates its architectural features. Completing the theatrical atmosphere are metal pedestals adorned with exquisitely handcrafted ceramic vases and a striking thematic artwork depicting a dark forest, adding depth and intrigue to the space.