Solid volumes

This 150m² residence is situated in Cholargos, a quiet suburb of Athens characterized by diverse building typologies and varying heights. Designed to challenge the conventional rental market, the project preserves the original dimensions of the 1960s structure while emphasizing the value of the surrounding greenery. The design aims to repurpose the existing structural framework to create a low-rise home with a garden, offering a tranquil retreat within the dense urban landscape.

 

Architectural Approach

During construction, the original supporting structure and foundations are preserved, while the central portion of the slab is removed to create a double-height space. An additional floor is added to the existing building, supported by a reinforced metal frame with anti-flexural stiffening connectors to withstand the area’s high seismic activity. Surrounded by neighboring apartment buildings, the residence faces privacy challenges for both its interior and exterior spaces. To address this, the design incorporates a compact volume with a large, angular opening on the southwest facade, maximizing natural light while maintaining privacy. Custom metal sliding shades and strategically placed trees provide essential shading for the home.

 

Spatial Layout

The interior layout follows an open floor plan centered around the patio, linking the living room, dining room, and kitchen to the bedrooms, as well as a separate studio featuring a skylight that fills the space with soft, diffused light. All communal areas open onto the garden, which spans three levels and is newly planted with various tree species. A key feature of the design is a slim, light pink metal staircase, adding a modern and elegant touch to the interior.

 

Materials & Sustainability

The walls are painted in soft white tones, creating a bright and spacious atmosphere that accentuates the staircase design. The flooring combines wood, terrazzo, and cement mortar for the bathrooms, adding a touch of traditional elegance. Thoughtfully selected materials and subtle colors create a harmonious flow between the indoor spaces and the garden outside. The house is equipped with an autonomous energy system for hot water and climate control, including underfloor heating and cooling through air-thermal technology. This system is powered by solar and photovoltaic panels installed on the new flat roof.