Clear details

The primary intention of the project was to create a residence that offers protection without sacrificing a sense of openness -an environment in which spaces are revealed gradually, guiding the experience from the urban frontage toward a luminous inner world.

 

Design Philosophy

The architectural composition is organized through horizontal volumes that slide past one another, forming shaded seating areas and carefully calibrated openings. These elements express the project’s central idea: a dialogue between transparency and privacy. Toward the street, the building adopts a more introverted stance, allowing only selective views outward. Near the garden, however, the architecture becomes almost diaphanous, as large sliding surfaces open entire façades, integrating the exterior into the everyday life of the interior spaces. Materiality follows the same logic: clean horizontal lines, textured plaster finishes, and solid surfaces convey stability, while expansive glazing introduces lightness and permeability.

 

 

Spatial Organization

Within the interior prevails a strong sense of continuity. The ground floor functions as a unified social field where the living area, kitchen, and dining space flow seamlessly into one another. The dining area, conceived as a double-height space, forms the spatial core of the house. A large skylight above allows natural light to penetrate deep into the interior, creating an ever-changing atmosphere that accompanies the rhythm of the day. This luminous void acts as a vertical connector, giving the home the character of an internal “courtyard” that links the different levels.

The upper floor accommodates the private functions. The master bedroom is positioned on the most protected side of the plot and is complemented by generous auxiliary spaces. The remaining bedrooms are designed as flexible units, offering independence to family members, while the attic functions as a workspace.

 

 

Material Palette

The interior material palette remains calm and earthy: warm tones, soft textures, and refined detailing create an atmosphere of balance and serenity – an architecture grounded in restraint and light.

 

Visual permeability

A compact hair studio of just 28m2 has been transformed into a spatial experience defined by clarity, warmth, and highly intentional material choices. Located in the commercial heart of Melissia, the project explores how light, color, and structure can work in concert to elevate a small-scale program into an expressive and memorable interior.

 

Design Philosophy

The design approach is defined by precision and visual permeability. Fluted glass panels and glass blocks – used both on the façade and within interior partitions – are employed to gently filter natural light, creating a softly illuminated environment that feels more expansive than its physical footprint. This controlled transparency enhances depth and atmosphere while ensuring privacy where required.

The façade is articulated as a striking composition of bold red steel framing, curved profiles, and translucent glass blocks, establishing a distinct and recognizable identity. A pivoting window allows the threshold to remain fluid and inviting, while an integrated outdoor bench extends the interior experience toward the street, fostering a dialogue between the studio and its urban context and offering a place for brief pauses by clients or passersby.

 

 

Functional Layout

The spatial layout is organized with clarity and efficiency. A primary wall accommodates a sequence of full-height mirrors and black styling chairs, positioned to maximize light reflection and maintain unobstructed circulation. Storage is seamlessly integrated through tall cabinetry and discreet product shelving, preserving a clean and orderly workspace. Throughout the interior, red accents are introduced as intentional focal points – from equipment details to the warm glow of lighting in the side room – echoing the exterior language and infusing vibrancy into the muted interior setting.

 

 

Material Palette

Within the interior, the material palette reinforces a sense of quiet confidence. Surfaces are finished in soft grey tones, forming a calm and cohesive envelope. An exposed cement ceiling introduces a raw, tactile quality that contrasts with the smoothness of the walls and mirrors, grounding the space while emphasizing its vertical dimension. This restrained backdrop is designed to support, rather than overpower, the daily activity of the studio.

Through the careful orchestration of materiality, structure, and light, a space is formed in which each element remains in constant dialogue with the others. Minimalism is balanced with character, precision with warmth, and efficiency with atmosphere. The result is a thoughtful interior that demonstrates how even the most compact spaces can be imbued with depth, identity, and a sense of calm refinement.

 

 

“Soul-specific” design

“An interior design project, even for a single apartment, carries with it the same complexity and responsibility as larger projects: it means interpreting desires, memories, and aspirations to transform them into space. It’s never about applying a pre-established model, but about building, step by step, a unique identity capable of generating quality of life. Each time, the result is different, surprising, and, to use a term from contemporary art, truly ‘soul-specific’.”

Pier Currà, Founder Pier Currà Architettura

 

Design Philosophy

Every corner of this apartment in the historic center of Forlì tells a story of creativity, color, and memory. The renovation transforms a 1960s home into a vibrant living space where a vintage soul meets contemporary pop accents, resulting in interiors that are both surprising and expressive.

 

 

Functional Layout

The double-height living room, flooded with natural light from a large window, forms the heart of the home. Morning light bounces off surfaces and details, enhancing the bold chromatic contrasts. The space is shaped by custom-made furniture that becomes architectural in itself: the striking orange staircase doubles as a sculptural bookcase, while the bespoke storage unit at the entrance acts as a visual and functional filter between the lowered hallway and the living area.

The kitchen celebrates color and craftsmanship. Entirely custom-designed, it is defined by deep blue cabinetry paired with a stainless-steel worktop. The flooring pays explicit homage to the 1970s through optical-patterned tiles, while a glass-brick wall filters light and introduces rhythmic geometric textures.

 

 

Materials & Furnishings

Throughout the apartment, interior design oscillates between memory and innovation. Original elements, such as the large window and the ceiling clad in exotic wood slats, have been carefully restored and enhanced, while bold color choices and bespoke furnishings create a cohesive narrative across the spaces. Pastel-toned bathrooms with cement tiles and red taps, a master bedroom distinguished by a custom burgundy wardrobe and white paneling, and an upper floor featuring a study that overlooks the living room and opens onto a balcony with a flower box, all contribute to a layered and imaginative domestic landscape. The result is a home that embraces its original identity while reinterpreting it with energy, personality, and lightness.

 

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.

 

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.

 

Well-being as design principle

The design of the pharmacy seeks to shape a spatial environment that surpasses the conventional association of pharmacies with clinical sterility. Its architectural approach is anchored in the concept of well-being, which serves as the project’s guiding design principle.

 

Design Philosophy

Inspired by the broader idea of living well, the composition develops through natural textures and warm tonalities, creating an atmosphere that is both inviting and human-oriented. This holistic view of health, embracing physical, psychological, and social dimensions, is translated into space through subtle references to nature, which act as the conceptual and aesthetic foundation of the project.

 

 

Spatial Layout

The 67 m² program is organized into two distinct zones: the main pharmacy and product-display area, and a sequence of auxiliary rooms including a workspace, kitchenette, restroom, and storage. At the core of the primary space, a low central island structures circulation while incorporating both display and storage functions. The service counter is aligned axially with the entrance, ensuring a direct visual connection and a seamless flow between interior and exterior. Perimeter shelving is arranged in precise geometric lines with integrated storage components, supporting both functional clarity and a clean visual identity.

 

 

Materials & Façade Design

The selected palette and color strategy aim to foster an atmosphere of warmth, familiarity, and calm. Soft green hues, neutral beige surfaces, transparent elements, and subtly textured finishes create a balanced dialogue throughout the space. Additional custom-designed furnishings – including the central island, the service counter, and seating pieces – follow a shared design language composed of a green base, a storage volume, and a wooden top, forming a cohesive functional ensemble.

The façade is defined by a green metal lattice divided into four panels that symbolically reference the form of herbal leaves, an aesthetic and conceptual nod to the natural origins of pharmaceutical products. Acting as both an expressive surface and a protective screen, the metal structure alludes to nature and the idea of wellness while providing the necessary security of the premises. By replacing the conventional shutter with a more organic gesture, the design allows the spatial narrative, one that connects health with balance, nature, and serenity, to be perceived even before entering the store.

 

Design equilibrium

Vibrant colors and textures converge to create an immersive living experience withing the apartment. Specifically, by blending lightness, functionality, and a contemporary approach to materials, the project celebrates creativity in every detail.

 

Design Philosophy

Occupying 97m2, the apartment distinguishes itself through a bold color palette and visual composition strategies that explore contrast, layered surfaces, and geometric forms. The result is an atmosphere that feels both dynamic and meticulously composed.

 

 

Spatial Organization

The social areas are seamlessly integrated, with subtle zoning achieved through ceiling color variations. The entrance features a white ceiling, while the living, dining, and kitchen spaces are unified under a green one – a visual transition that preserves openness while defining distinct functions. Organic, lightweight furnishings reinforce the apartment’s identity and contribute to an inviting, balanced ambiance. The layout harmonizes aesthetics with practicality, supporting everyday living while maintaining a sense of vibrancy and expression.

 

 

Material Palette

A dialogue between bold geometries, contemporary materials, and an emphasis on well-being establishes a refined balance between functionality and creative intent. The project embodies the essence of contemporary living, offering a fluid, expressive environment where comfort and design coexist in equilibrium.

 

Natural textures

The project introduces a new architectural paradigm within the realm of luxury retail. The space functions not merely as a point of sale but – through meticulously detailed design – as a complete spatial experience that celebrates minimalism through the refined elegance of natural materials.

 

Material & Color Palette

At the core of the store’s identity lies the use of natural materials, with luxurious onyx stone in green and blue tones as the dominant element. Wall claddings, countertops, and display plinths form a framework of understated luxury with an earthy character, while light reflections on the surfaces reveal their natural depth and texture.

The warm color palette serves as a calm backdrop, allowing the garments to take center stage. The restrained aesthetic is enhanced by clean lines and geometric clarity, enabling effortless movement and a sense of freedom. Floating shelves and stainless-steel structures emphasize lightness, while mirrors with golden frames introduce a subtle radiance and expand the spatial perception.

 

 

Lighting Design

Lighting design, with warm 3000 Kelvin tones, creates an atmosphere of intimacy, highlighting the fabrics’ textures with precision. Through carefully defined zones, light directs the visitors’ flow, accentuating both products and architectural features. High-CRI fixtures ensure accurate color and material rendering, reinforcing the sense of quality throughout the space.

 

 

Custom Elements

As an unexpected touch, the fitting rooms deviate from the dominant palette, adopting a soft green hue that evokes warmth and privacy while maintaining harmony with the store’s natural character. This contrast adds visual interest and functions as a spatial threshold that enriches the visitor’s experience. The design demonstrates that minimalism – when paired with natural materials and refined detailing – can become synonymous with luxury. A space that transcends the act of consumption and transforms into a complete design experience, where fashion and architecture coexist in perfect balance.

 

Colorful route

The Happy Tooth pediatric dental clinic occupies a 230 m² space on the third floor of an office building in Voula.

 

Design Philosophy

The central design idea was to create a welcoming and playful environment that reduces children’s anxiety, while at the same time conveying professionalism and functionality for the medical staff.

 

 

Spatial Organization

The layout was organized around a central corridor that connects the reception, waiting areas, and examination rooms. Spaces are arranged to allow direct access while clearly separating public and private functions. Treatment and examination rooms were designed with both children’s comfort and dentist ergonomics in mind. The use of colors and playful elements contributes to creating a positive experience for young visitors.

 

Material Palette

The choice of materials focused on durable and child-friendly surfaces. Wood, warm colors, and textures were combined with modern elements to create an environment that balances familiarity with hygiene and safety. The clinic takes advantage of its third-floor location to allow natural light to flood the interiors. The views toward the city create a sense of openness, while the interior layout reinforces feelings of calmness and protection.

 

Inhabiting a living stratum

Set within San Miguel de Allende, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the residence acknowledges the cultural and environmental richness of its context. The architecture establishes a dialogue with both geological and urban landscapes, creating a house that is simultaneously rooted in place and forward-looking. By merging geology, memory, and architecture, the project becomes a contemporary expression of belonging.

 

Design Philosophy

The residence arises from the intersection of architecture and geology, conceived as a living stratum embedded in the landscape. The project is inspired by the stratification of the earth, where time, memory, and material sedimentation shape its presence. Rather than imposing itself on the terrain, the house emerges as part of it, blurring the limits between natural and built environments.

 

 

Spatial Organization

The spatial configuration is determined by a sequence of horizontal layers that define both program and perception. These strata articulate circulation and frame views, guiding residents and visitors through an experiential journey of openness and shelter. Each level responds to topography and orientation, ensuring optimal integration with the site. In parallel, the program is organized into distinct yet interconnected zones. Public spaces flow effortlessly into the landscape, while private areas retreat into protected layers of the house. The design balances intimacy with collectivity, allowing for flexible occupation throughout the day.

 

 

Material Palette

The materiality of the house emphasizes continuity with the earth. Walls of compacted earth evoke geological processes, while exposed concrete and steel provide structural clarity and contrast. The tactile qualities of materials -textures, densities, and colors- reinforce the idea of inhabiting a living stratum.

 

The project employs artificial intelligence not as a postproduction tool but as a catalyst for design discovery

 

Conceptual Approach

From the earliest stages of material research, custom diffusion models generate high-resolution studies of ceramic glazes -testing how color, porosity, and surface texture respond to Stuttgart’s humidity and shifting light throughout the year. These AI-driven images serve as analytical sketches, expanding the scope of experimentation.

The visuals also structure the design narrative. The most evocative frames are carefully curated, annotated with environmental data, and assembled into storyboard sheets that trace a resident’s journey from street to sky court. Each storyboard then acts as a directive for the parametric model: balcony depths, façade perforations, and communal terraces are dimensioned directly from the atmospheres depicted in the imagery. This iterative loop -generate, narrate, parametrize- transforms abstract research into spatial sequences that can be costed, constructed, and lived in.

To move from still frames to immersive previews, the workflow integrates a hybrid pipeline: diffusion models for rapid variation and enhance-focused AI for precise upscaling, ensuring clarity at every stage. The outcome is an architecture that is simultaneously data-driven and story-infused, where every ceramic tile and each corner loggia emerge from a dialogue between human intuition and machine imagination.

 

 

Prompts & Software

An apartment made of a green ceramics’ façade. Contemporary architectural style.

Created with Freepik, Topaz Labs and Photo AI.

 

Materiality as narration

The architecture does not seek to dominate the landscape but rather to integrate into it with discretion. Volumes and openings adapt to the natural slope of the land, while planting complements and unifies the composition. The result is an architecture where living is experienced as an extension of the landscape, embracing both nature and the site’s inherent spirituality.

 

Design Philosophy

The project’s architectural approach was guided by the power of simplicity and the preservation of the site’s memory. The intervention sought to respect the authenticity of the monastic character, emphasizing spirituality and tranquility. The design philosophy embraced principles of minimalism, shaping a space that encourages silence, focus, and inner exploration. The decision to maintain clean lines and restraint was not merely aesthetic but a deliberate strategy that emphasizes the essence of architecture.

 

 

Spatial Organization

The spatial organization drew from monastic typologies, with clear functional axes that connect the main areas. Circulation was carefully choreographed to guide visitors through a gradual sequence of revelations, moving from public to private realms. Openings were positioned to frame views of the Leros landscape, enhancing the relationship with light and the sea. This arrangement establishes a harmonious dialogue between inside and outside, where the architectural shell acts as both frame and threshold.

The interiors were designed to support multiple uses without losing a sense of unity. The main gathering space serves as a central point of hospitality, while private areas preserve the sense of retreat. Transitions between spaces were designed to be fluid, supporting the visitor’s journey -from collective engagement to moments of solitude. Architecture here operates as a backdrop for life, allowing occupants to experience the place with flexibility and authenticity.

 

 

Material Palette

Material selection was guided by a strategy of balance between the old and the new. Stone walls were preserved and restored to highlight the building’s authenticity, while new insertions were made in wood, metal, and exposed concrete. Natural tones and textures enhance the sense of grounding and create an atmosphere of serenity. Materiality functions as a narrative tool, where each element carries the memory of place and bridges past with present.

 

Contrast and rhythm

The project is conceived as an immersive architectural project where experience and brand power converge. The ambition is to create not just an educational space for hair styling but a symbolic environment that reflects the values and identity of the company. Architecture here becomes a strategic tool, reinforcing brand presence through atmosphere, materiality, and spatial sequencing. The concept transforms education into a lived experience, highlighting the inseparability of design and identity.

 

Spatial Organization

The academy unfolds as a carefully structured environment where circulation, orientation, and visibility are designed to enhance engagement. Spaces are distributed to encourage interaction and participation, offering visual continuity between different programs. The sequence of spaces guides users through a journey, framing each moment as part of a narrative that communicates the brand’s values.

The building accommodates diverse functions: classrooms, laboratories, exhibition spaces, and gathering areas. Each program is integrated within a continuous flow, ensuring that learning, experimentation, and interaction coexist. The flexible layout allows for adaptation to different activities, supporting both individual focus and collective experience. Social spaces are interwoven with educational ones, reinforcing the sense of community.

 

 

Material Palette

The material palette was chosen to reinforce the immersive character of the project. Textures, colors, and finishes create atmospheres that resonate with the brand’s aesthetic language. Concrete, wood, glass, and lighting are used strategically to generate contrast and rhythm, enhancing both intimacy and monumentality within the academy.

 

 

Context Integration

Located in São Paulo, the Truss Academy is deeply connected to its urban and cultural setting. The project embraces the city’s energy and integrates it into an environment of learning and creativity. By merging architecture with brand identity, the academy becomes a landmark not only for the company but also for the city, demonstrating how design can shape cultural and educational presence in an urban context.

 

Athenian Patchwork

This duality -restrained elegance meeting bursts of energy- makes the home both timeless and full of personality, seamlessly woven into the fabric of Athens while remaining a deeply personal retreat.

 

Design Philosophy

SItuated in the dynamic neighborhood of Pagkrati, this renovation is an exercise in balance -between refinement and vibrancy, subtlety and expression, quiet backdrops and bold statements. Designed for a young family of three, the home adapts to its inhabitants, allowing them to shape their space while embracing moments of architectural playfulness.

 

 

Spatial Organization

The main living spaces are kept deliberately understated, their muted material palette and clean lines forming a canvas for personal expression. Signature furniture pieces find their place alongside a growing collection of paintings and sculptures. These spaces are meant to be lived in, evolving over time as layers of objects and memories accumulate.

 

 

Custom Structures & Materials

In contrast, the terraces, kitchen, and bathrooms take a bolder stance. The terraces, in particular, embody the extroverted character of Athens, where life spills effortlessly between indoors and out. A perforated yellow staircase zigzags upward, a ciel blue BBQ anchors gatherings, red-tiled benches invite conversation, and colorful outdoor furniture completes the collage -an architectural nod to the city’s patchwork of balconies and rooftop additions. The same spirit infuses the kitchen and bathrooms, where vibrant colors and patterns break the neutrality of the home, creating playful, unexpected moments.

The material palette contrasts muted tones in the main living areas with bold colors and textures in the terraces, kitchen, and bathrooms, balancing calm neutrality with moments of intensity.

 

Industrial memory

In a quiet neighborhood of Pagrati, a 100m² ground-floor space is reimagined through thoughtful architectural intervention. With a rich history and diverse uses dating back to the 1970s -from a handmade fabric flower workshop, car repair garage, and photography studio to its current life as a boutique for clothing and jewelry- the space now embraces a new identity: contemporary, warm, and approachable.

 

Design Philosophy

The design bridges past and present by preserving and celebrating the materiality and layered history of the space. Rather than mimicking its former functions, it pays tribute to them. A two-tone treatment on the walls -beige at the base and a deep, warm burgundy above- softens the shell’s verticality and introduces a more human scale. This color palette also highlights the original mosaic flooring, which remains intact as a living memory within the space.

 

 

Materials & Custom Elements

Natural wood brings warmth and tactile richness, reinforcing a sense of friendliness and simplicity. Cement blocks, echoing an industrial aesthetic, are employed both structurally -such as in partition walls- and decoratively, forming tables and planters.

Custom-designed furnishings feature clean, minimal lines that allow the focus to remain on the products themselves. Jewelry display tables are inset with discreet vitrines that subtly frame each piece. Soft fabric curtains, used to conceal the old interior mezzanines, add a theatrical quality and enhance the visual clarity and continuity of the main space.

 

 

Spatial Layout

A key aspect of the redesign is the repositioning of the jewelry workshop. Once a hidden, utilitarian space, it is now an open, active feature within the store, inviting visitors to observe the creation process in real time -a direct link between craftsmanship and customer experience.

With an emphasis on detail and cohesion, the intervention avoids excess and honors the character of the original space. The renovation creates a quiet yet unmistakable transition -from past to present- transforming the venue into a contemporary landmark in the neighborhood.

 

Textural composition

Situated at the foot of Lycabettus Hill, between the neighborhoods of Exarchia and Kolonaki, the apartment is a typical example of 1970s Athenian architecture. The project involved the renovation of a 58m² flat to become the home of two young professionals working in the arts. Given their profession, love of art, and frequent travels, the residents have curated an eclectic collection of artworks, ceramics, and furniture. From the outset, it was clear that the apartment would need to accommodate a wide array of objects from around the world -elements that played a central role in the design process.

 

Design Philosophy

The goal was to compose a space infused with vivid color, varied textures, tactile materials, striking forms, and abundant natural light. The design aimed to reflect contemporary Greek architectural creativity while also embracing and thoughtfully incorporating elements of the country’s architectural heritage -many of which have only recently been rediscovered and appreciated. In alignment with the clients’ wishes, the design retained and restored key original features of the apartment, integrating them seamlessly into the new layout. These included brown marble floors, colorful mosaics, wooden parquet, and an original marble sink. Following the apartment’s layout reorganization, the amount of natural light entering the space was maximized, by removing interior longitudinal walls. This intervention allowed for the unification of the living room, dining area, kitchen, and hallway, resulting in an open, fluid, and interconnected plan. Crucial to organizing this open space was the design and placement of a series of custom-built elements that serve as focal points around which daily life unfolds.

 

 

Custom Structures

Upon entering the apartment, visitors encounter a striking white metal bookshelf that displays a selection of the residents’ favorite objects and artworks. This structure was placed where the old dividing wall once separated the hallway from the interior corridor. Merging this contemporary installation with the preserved brick wall became a defining moment for the spatial composition, both conceptually and technically.

During construction, a selected portion of the original wall was carefully preserved, and the new metal structure was built around it. Across from the entrance, a dedicated section of wall was intentionally left bare to host a painting -offering visitors an immediate artistic welcome into the space.

 

 

Material Palette & Lighting

Since cooking is an essential and cherished part of the residents’ daily routine, the kitchen was given particular emphasis, both functionally and spatially. At its center lies a custom-designed island clad in green tiles, placed between the kitchen and dining area. This element serves as the heart of the home and the focal point of daily activity. The island’s unique shape creates an inviting and efficient workspace, supporting a range of simultaneous activities, with the cooktop placed directly on its marble countertop. Around it, carefully crafted niches and handmade marble shelves provide storage and display for kitchen tools, cookbooks, ceramics, and personal items. Suspended above the island is a transparent white metal shelving structure, subtly defining the boundary between kitchen and dining space. Its open design creates an ever-changing interplay of light and shadow throughout the day.

The kitchen cabinets, made of light oak veneer, form a warm and textured backdrop to the cooking space. Their sculptural design wraps around a small window and a new transom installed to bring natural light into the previously dark bathroom located behind the kitchen. A second transom between the hallway and office brightens the entrance area and visually connects the front of the apartment to its full depth. Following these interventions, daylight now flows freely through the home -from the northeast-facing bedroom and office to the southwest-facing communal areas- enhancing the apartment’s sense of openness and continuity.

 

Material lightness

This 209 m² apartment, located in the Bigorrilho neighborhood of Curitiba, Brazil, was thoughtfully renovated to suit the daily life of a couple and their daughter. The project was guided by a clear vision: to blend comfort, functionality, and a sense of lightness within a contemporary design that emphasizes fluid, well-planned spaces.

 

Design Philosophy

The key transformation involved integrating the social areas, combining the living and dining rooms into a single, spacious environment. This open layout fosters a welcoming atmosphere, ideal for shared family moments and entertaining. A cozy lounge with a fireplace offers a quiet retreat for the family, while the kitchen was reconfigured to be more functional and aligned with their daily routines. The couple’s bedroom was also redesigned with a focus on intelligent storage solutions and optimized spatial use, balancing aesthetics with practicality.

 

 

Lighting Design

A standout feature of the renovation is its carefully curated lighting design, aimed at highlighting the textures and finishes throughout the apartment while enabling a range of moods. A mix of recessed ceiling lights, continuous linear lighting, and targeted spot fixtures creates flexible lighting scenarios -perfect for both lively gatherings and relaxing evenings.

 

 

Material Palette

The project adopts a neutral color scheme, with shades of white, gray, and natural wood that reinforce a warm yet modern identity. Premium materials such as marble and custom millwork are strategically used to add sophistication and purpose to each space, ensuring a harmonious balance between elegance and everyday functionality.

 

Multidimensional space

In Hangzhou, China’s e-commerce capital, live streaming fuels a vibrant urban culture where every late-night broadcast tells a story of creativity and resilience. Vision Entertainment, a leader in the live-streaming industry, continues to grow by embracing youthful energy and instant impact through innovative celebrity-led models and multidimensional industry integration.

 

Design Philosophy

As the company expanded, it sought an office space that would reflect its brand identity and resonate with its young, dynamic workforce. The new headquarters is a space that embodies the brand’s DNA and cultural spirit. With the average age of MCN live-streamers at just 22.9, Vision’s team prioritizes experience, flexibility, and authenticity. The design team, inspired by Gen Z’s values, created a space that merges life, work, and creativity. Vibrant color palettes ignite inspiration, while open, shared areas promote social interaction and collaboration.

 

 

Color Palette & Custom Furniture

Red dominates as a symbol of vitality and classic aesthetics. Color-themed atriums and a multi-level layout enhance spatial efficiency, combining green’s natural calm with red’s energetic punch to signal a bold, optimistic future. The headquarters is designed as a “youth community,” breaking traditional boundaries between office, studio, and social space. The space is filled with “gray zones” where creativity flows freely, and everyone becomes a part of Vision’s story. A striking orange “V” structure connects the interior and exterior, symbolizing ambition and boundless potential.

Bold ceiling colors and exposed structural elements energize the space, while movable furniture supports a non-traditional, adaptable working style. Inward-facing phone booths offer private moments within an otherwise open layout, balancing focus and collaboration. Meeting areas use soft yellow-green hues to foster comfort and openness, encouraging informal discussions and team spirit. The central atrium serves as a multifunctional hub, with green tones flowing from upper levels, while a lightweight staircase enhances openness and movement.

 

 

Functional Layout

On the second floor, modular “stair” stages, reflective ceilings, and a wall-sized LED screen create a seamless blend of performance, fashion, and digital art. A built-in runway allows the space to transform into a fashion show venue, reinforcing the brand’s avant-garde, trendsetting identity. Floating metallic spheres and shifting lights turn the space into a dreamlike cityscape -an homage to Vision Entertainment’s creative essence. The result is more than an office -it’s a living, evolving environment that supports freedom, expression, and innovation for the next generation of creators.

 

Dynamic grid

The new Metropolitan College building, spanning a total of 2,000m2 with an additional 1,000m2 of basement space, is the fourth facility added to the existing campus in Maroussi. This expansion addresses the organization’s growing educational demands.

 

Functional Organization

It is a mixed-use building, housing the Centre for Interdisciplinary Education and Research in Rehabilitation on the ground floor. The basement and first floor contain student training rooms, while the second floor consolidates administrative offices previously spread across other buildings.

 

 

Façade Design & Materials

The new building is situated in the southeast corner of the plot, maximizing the open space in-between the existing buildings and the new addition, while allowing an abundance natural light to enter the interior spaces. Even though the new structure is designed to complement the configuration and style of the surrounding buildings, it establishes its own identity through a unique facade. Instead of a continuous horizontal arrangement of louvers, the facade shifts in angles, directions, and density, forming a dynamic, broken line around the perimeter.

The thoughtful use and variation of materials, along with the striking grid organization and color contrasts, create a contemporary interior. This design moves beyond a typical workspace or educational setting, inviting users into an inspiring environment that encourages creativity and growth.

 

 

Sustainable Design

Aligned with modern energy efficiency standards, the building has a zero-energy footprint and is classified as energy class A+, marking it as an innovative structure. It is fully automated with a KNX system and can be operated and monitored remotely. The lighting system detects human presence, adjusting its intensity based on natural light entering through the windows. The building utilizes VRV inverter systems for air conditioning, has a green roof, and uses solar systems to supply hot water. Additionally, plans to achieve zero energy consumption are realized through the installation of photovoltaic panels.

 

 

Horizontal gatherings

Located in Sharq, Kuwait, this project represents the idea of a multifunctional canopy, that simultaneously acts as an urban installation for the heart of the city center.

 

Building Program

The mixed-use building stands as a new landmark and a prominent place for gathering, hosting several communal events throughout the day, while at the same time, acting as a drive-in restaurant and outdoor esplanade. The roof is a playful contemplation area that features a playground and dining area with breathtaking views of the city, through series of carefully curated architectural elements such as stands and slides. In parallel, the space is also used as an outdoor theatre or cinema. Finally, the first floor includes an indoor restaurant and all the service areas.

 

 

Construction Philosophy

The most prominent element is a red spiral staircase that connects the three floors as well as all interior and exterior spaces. The construction philosophy is based on using raw, natural materials combined with intricate assembly techniques in order to create spaces as well as furniture that are both functional as well as optimally constructed.

Material Palette

The canopy-façade is made of a metallic mesh painted white, while the roof, floors and interior ceilings are painted in red, thus creating a horizontal contrast. In parallel, glossy ceramic tiles are used to clad specific parts of the interior walls. Finally, an array of strategically placed openings offers cross ventilation, natural light and accessibility to the overall space.

 

Functional differentiation

The project aim was the design of a private institute with a total area of 486m2 in the village of Deftera, a semi-urban region near Nicosia.

 

Architectural Elements

The design concept emphasizes a clear separation between communal spaces and private classrooms. The building’s program includes a reception area, six classrooms, a computer room, a conference room, and a study room. Movable partitions are installed on the ground floor, enabling the classrooms to be combined into two larger spaces when needed.

 

 

Functional Organization

The northern outdoor courtyard serves as a space for both relaxation and educational activities. The design concept is based on the vertical division of pure prism shape into two sections, with the common areas positioned in between. These spaces feature double-height ceilings and transparent walls on both sides, allowing natural light and views of the surrounding landscape to permeate the building, thus creating a seamless connection between the exterior and interior. The common areas are intended for socialization and integration within the educational environment, while the classrooms offer a private, focused setting for teaching -both elements being equally important to the educational experience and central to the overall design concept.

 

 

Façade Design & Materials

Finally, emphasis was placed on the project’s scale and the strategic use of color to create a welcoming, user-friendly environment. The interior design is enhanced by lighting and acoustics to optimize the functionality of the building and its various spaces. Exterior blinds play a key role on the southern façade, controlling natural light and managing both the interior and exterior visibility of the classrooms, while also creating a dynamic interplay of views and colors of the façade.

 

Experiential display

The showroom is located in a shopping center dedicated to building supplies and materials, within the city’s vibrant commercial area. The project aim is to create a carefully curated space in which the client’s products are showcased.

 

Design Philosophy

A key inspiration that guided the architectural design was the paintings of Russian artist Kazimir Malevich, particularly Black Square (1915) and Suprematist Composition (1916). The minimal albeit lively colors, shapes and patterns of Malevich’s works became the conceptual starting point for the functional organization as well as the materials used within the space. Pieces of yellow, red and green were overlaid onto the initial plan, eventually constructing a series of interconnected rooms of varying scales and a fluid circulation area.

 

Spatial Organization

The space is comprised of five primary zones: the entrance, the brand history room, the product display, a meeting room and an interactive space. An impressively lit stage is immediately visible from the entrance, featuring several objects such as a traditional wooden chair as well as an orthogonal aperture sheltered by a green metal canopy. A red cantilevered countertop visually connects the opening to a multi-use work area.

The hallway is partially illuminated by a strip of low, floor-level windows and acts as a circulation space that simultaneously accommodates a number of installations which introduce the brand’s daily paint and construction materials. On the other side of the hallway, a brightly painted yellow window provides an uninterrupted view into the lounge room. Venturing further into the main exhibition area, visitors encounter a tall white curtain, hung from a circular track and playfully painted in vivid colors that displays the company’s products in the most “untypical” way possible.

 

Experiential design

The interactive area includes an array of paintbrushes dipped in different types of paint and fixed to the wall, acting as an additional exhibition display. Visitors are encouraged to try the products themselves on the blank, white canvases present within the space, promoting the company’s product placement regarding the durability and effect of the paints. The design draws inspiration from the local culture as well as the distinctive style of the Russian painter and transforms a conventional product showroom into a truly imaginative experience.

Architectural Event on Colour

The architectural event “Material Matters Vol. 5: Colour“, organized by ek magazine under the auspices of the Hellenic Institute of Architecture, concluded successfully on May 27, 2024, at the atrium of the Benaki Museum, Pireos Street. The event attracted numerous professionals from the fields of architecture and design, who explored the importance of color in architectural design through thematic presentations.

The event was opened by Athanasios Tsoumalakos, General Manager of Eastern Europe and President and CEO of Ideal Standard Greece, representing the Platinum Sponsor. He was followed by Spyros Katopodis, Commercial Director of Elval Colour, the Gold Sponsor.

The first speaker was Marika Mavroleon of A&M Architects, who discussed the psychological significance of color in design through examples from her office and other architects. Following her, Katerina Apostolou of AKA Apostolou Colakis Architects spoke about the geometry of color. Petros Tavaniotis of Betaplan presented various color applications in healthcare and welfare buildings. Katerina Kourkoula and Hannes Livers Gutberlet discussed the use of color in selected projects, while Minos Digenis of Minos Digenis Arquitectos analyzed how color contributes to creating experiences from an architectural to an urban scale. Giannis Karachalios of Plaini and Karachalios Architects explained the rules of applying color in his office’s projects. Miltos Kontogiannis of Studiomateriality highlighted the importance of architectural color from the perspective of branding and communication. Maria Tsaftari of Urban Soul Project reviewed recent buildings and interior designs of her office, and Vana Krimnioti presented a series of journal notes on architecture and space, focusing on colors and their multiple connotations. The event concluded with a presentation by the keynote speaker, Dimitris Antonakakis, who, through carefully selected projects, showcased intriguing aspects of his research on color in architecture conducted by Studio 66, offering invaluable insights to attendees.

The event was curated by Ariadne Vozani, Editor-in-Chief of ek magazine and Professor at NTUA, and coordinated by Stavros Martinos, architect and member of the magazine’s editorial team.

 

Platinum Sponsor: Ideal Standard
Gold Sponsor: Elval Colour
Silver Sponsor: AkzoNobel
Bronze Sponsor: Neokem
Sponsors: Halo Architectural Lighting, Textures and Tiles,  Kraft Paints-Bioclima
Supporters: Fibran, Nea Polis, Prodea, Roche Bobois, Sigma Coatings, Terra Creative, Tselentakis, Verdi, Vitex
Cocktail Event Sponsor: Kanelli
Media Sponsor: NEWS247
Beverages and Spirits Sponsor: Vergina

Architectural Event on Colour

 

The 5th architectural event of the “Material Matters” series, organized by ek magazine, will take place on Monday, May 27, 2024, in the atrium of the Benaki Museum (138 Pireos Street).

The aim of the “Material Matters” series is to highlight the significance of various contemporary and traditional materials in Greek architectural and construction practices. Through theoretical approaches and built works of Greek architects, the events focus on exploring the history and characteristics of each material and their application in the evolving landscape of architecture, influenced by economic and technological advancements.
Material Matters Vol.5 is dedicated to a key feature of spatial configuration in architecture: Colour.

The application of color in architecture significantly impacts our perception of space by enhancing depth, intensity, and the significance of specific surfaces, volumes, and details. Historically and in the modern era, color serves as an architectural component that imbues a particular atmosphere, durability, and greatly enhances each project’s expression.

Ten speakers from the fields of architecture and design will delve into the role of color in their work, delivering engaging 10-minute presentations.

Speakers:
– Dimitris Antonakakis | A66 Architects
– Katerina Apostolou | AKA Architects
– Minos Digenis | Minos Digenis Arquitectos
– John Karahalios – Elisavet Plaini | Plaini & Karahalios Architects
– Miltos Kontogiannis | Studio Materiality
– Katerina Kourkoula – Hannes Livers Gutberlet | en route architecture
– Vana Krimnioti
– Marika Mavroleon | A&M Architects
– Petros Tavaniotis | Betaplan
– Maria Tsaftari | USP

 

Platinum Sponsor: Ideal Standard
Gold Sponsor: Elval Colour
Silver Sponsor: AkzoNobel
Bronze Sponsor: Neokem
Sponsors: Halo Architectural Lighting, Textures and Tiles,  Kraft Paints-Bioclima
Supporters: Fibran, Nea Polis, Prodea, Roche Bobois, Sigma Coatings, Terra Creative, Tselentakis, Verdi, Vitex
Cocktail Event Sponsor: Kanelli
Media Sponsor: NEWS247
Beverages and Spirits Sponsor: Vergina