The conversion of an existing 2,000m² industrial complex creates a contemporary workplace where open-plan offices, visitor areas and logistics functions are combined with a material palette of cement mortar, timber, metal and glass, alongside a substantial energy and technological upgrade.

 

The KAFEA TERRA offices in Thessaloniki by IPODOMI occupy an existing industrial complex in Kalochori that was renovated and repurposed to accommodate the company’s new branch facilities. The 2,000m² programme combines offices with visitor and training areas, technical support spaces and a 1,000m² logistics warehouse, reorganizing three existing buildings around the requirements of a contemporary workplace.

The intervention addresses both the architectural shell and the internal organization. Large openings, new infill walls and a renewed façade increase the building’s openness, while the interior is structured around visual continuity, shared spaces and a restrained palette of materials.

 

Adapting an industrial complex

The change of use required significant modifications to the existing structures.

A 140m² metal mezzanine was introduced within one of the three buildings, while an accessible elevator was added to the central volume. New large-scale openings alter the relationship between interior and exterior, and the façades are unified through white aluminium composite panels.

Rather than concealing the industrial origin of the complex, the intervention uses its scale and existing structural logic as the basis for the new programme. The result is a series of larger, interconnected areas that can accommodate different modes of work while maintaining a clear overall organization.

 

Visitors below, offices above

The programme is distributed according to different levels of access and privacy.

The ground floor accommodates the functions addressed primarily to visitors: reception, a communal lounge, product display, seminar room and supporting employee facilities. These areas combine the company’s public-facing activities with spaces for training and presentation.

On the upper level, the administration offices and meeting room are arranged in an open-plan configuration. Glazed partitions provide acoustic and functional separation without interrupting visual continuity, while planted islands introduce softer elements between work zones.

The arrangement avoids a sequence of enclosed offices, favouring instead a more continuous working environment where transparency supports communication between teams.

 

Material continuity

The interior palette is deliberately limited to pressed cement mortar, timber, metal and glass.

The mineral character of the floor and wall surfaces is balanced by warmer timber elements, while black metal details give definition to furniture and partitions. Glass maintains openness between different functions and allows daylight to extend further into the plan.

Custom-designed furniture is integrated with KAFEA TERRA products and display elements, connecting the workplace with the company’s commercial identity without relying on extensive graphic branding.

The material strategy therefore operates at two levels: it preserves a degree of the industrial character of the existing shell while introducing the warmer and more controlled atmosphere required for offices, meetings and hospitality functions.

 

Energy and technological upgrade

The architectural renovation is accompanied by a broader upgrade of the building’s technical infrastructure.

A 100m² photovoltaic installation contributes to the building’s energy supply, while new VRV systems address heating and cooling requirements. Audiovisual equipment is connected through a centralized control system intended to simplify everyday operation.

The exterior areas were also reorganized, with new fencing, parking spaces equipped with electric-vehicle chargers and 430m² of planted beds. The additional landscape areas introduce greenery around the existing industrial complex and create visual connections from both visitor and employee spaces.

Through the combination of adaptive reuse, open-plan organization and technical upgrading, the project transforms a former industrial property into a workplace that accommodates administration, training, product presentation and logistics within a unified architectural framework.

 

The project was first published in print in ek290 | September 2024.

An expandable urban network connects more than 70 archaeological sites and monuments across Thessaloniki’s historic centre, using public space, pedestrian routes, landscape and a restrained architectural vocabulary to bring the city’s successive historical layers back into everyday life.

 

Armosi by Apostolopoulos Tasoulis is the first-prize proposal for the unification of Thessaloniki’s archaeological sites and monuments. Its name derives from the Greek word Άρμοση, referring to the act of joining, and summarizes the central ambition of the masterplan: to reconnect archaeological remains, monuments, neighbourhoods and contemporary public life within a coherent but expandable urban system.

Thessaloniki’s Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman, Jewish and modern layers are often located only short distances apart, yet many of its monuments continue to be experienced as isolated fragments. The proposal addresses this discontinuity not through a single monumental intervention, but through a network capable of evolving gradually across the historic centre.

 

An expandable urban grid

The masterplan is structured around the historic axes that have shaped Thessaloniki over time, with Egnatia Street and its intersection with Aristotelous Street forming its principal organizing framework.

From these axes, complementary routes extend across the centre, connecting more than 70 monuments and archaeological sites. The network is conceived as an open system rather than a fixed final composition, allowing new links and interventions to be introduced over time.

This approach shifts attention from individual monuments towards the relationships between them. Streets, squares and neighbourhoods become part of the historical narrative, allowing different periods of the city to be experienced as interconnected layers rather than separate destinations.

 

Transforming the boundary into a joint

A central principle of Armosi is the reinterpretation of the boundary between archaeological sites and the contemporary city.

Existing enclosures and abrupt changes of level often reinforce the separation of monuments from everyday urban life. The proposal replaces this logic with carefully designed points of connection: new entrances, discreet boundaries and redesigned public spaces establish greater visual and physical continuity.

Where archaeological remains lie below present-day street level, accessible routes descend towards them, reducing the distance between contemporary circulation and the historical strata beneath it.

The “joint” consequently becomes both a spatial device and the underlying concept of the project: a point where different periods, uses and levels of the city can meet without losing their distinct identities.

 

A shared architectural language

Drawing on UNESCO’s Historic Urban Landscape approach, the masterplan treats cultural heritage as an active part of the contemporary city rather than as a collection of isolated objects requiring visual separation.

The design deliberately avoids adding further visual complexity to an already information-rich urban environment. Instead, a restrained toolkit establishes continuity across different sites.

A light-toned stone surface extends through streets and squares, accompanied by discreet lighting, signage and urban furniture. The elements provide a common architectural vocabulary while remaining adaptable to the spatial and historical conditions of each location.

The intention is not to create a new visual foreground, but to provide a quieter setting in which the existing monuments can become more legible.

 

Pedestrian movement and green corridors

Public space is reorganized around pedestrians and sustainable mobility.

Existing pedestrian areas are extended and connected with new traffic-calmed routes, creating a continuous network coordinated with the metro and the reorganized public transport system.

Planting also becomes an integral component of the masterplan. New green corridors and reinforced vegetation create shaded pedestrian routes, contribute to the urban microclimate and introduce additional natural elements into the dense historic fabric.

Beyond movement, the network can support different thematic and cultural itineraries. Monuments from distinct historical periods can therefore be connected through alternative routes, allowing Thessaloniki’s historical stratification to be explored through multiple narratives rather than a single prescribed sequence.

 

Site-specific interventions

The shared strategy is adapted at key archaeological sites rather than applied uniformly.

At the Rotunda and the Galerian Complex, the proposal seeks to re-establish the continuity of the historic imperial axis and strengthen its relationship with the surrounding city.

At the Roman Forum, a new axial entrance and a partially subterranean structure redefine access to the archaeological site and its relationship with contemporary street level.

These interventions illustrate the wider logic of Armosi: the masterplan provides a coherent framework, while each monument retains the capacity to respond to its own archaeological, topographical and urban conditions.

Rather than attempting to compete with Thessaloniki’s historical density, the proposal relies on precise and relatively restrained interventions. Through routes, thresholds, surfaces, planting and targeted architectural additions, Armosi seeks to reveal and reconnect what is already present.

Legible boundaries

The interior design of a 300 m² office space for an insurance company is conceived as a study in transparency, spatial continuity and organizational clarity. The proposal introduces the notion of the “capsule” as a primary morphological and functional device, structuring the workplace through a series of transparent volumes that articulate the program while preserving a continuous visual field throughout the interior.

 

Spatial Organization

Departing from conventional enclosed office typologies, the design employs glass volumes to accommodate private functions such as meeting rooms and executive offices. These “capsules” operate as lightweight architectural insertions within the open-plan layout, allowing natural light to permeate the entirety of the space while maintaining visual connections across departments. The workspace is thus conceived as a unified environment, where boundaries remain legible yet non-restrictive, supporting both collaboration and autonomy.

 

 

Material Palette

Materiality plays a decisive role in shaping the atmosphere of the interior. Exposed cable trays mounted on metal rails, perforated metal panels and glass block partitions foreground the infrastructural and technical dimension of the workspace. In contrast, neutral surfaces introduce a layer of warmth and balance, establishing a dialogue between industrial expression and a more domestic sensibility. This juxtaposition produces a spatial identity that is both precise and inviting.

 

 

Lighting Design

In the entrance, a large-scale perforated metal screen defines the first spatial threshold. Acting as a semi-transparent filter, it subtly delineates the reception area while maintaining visual permeability toward the open workspace beyond. Light and movement diffuse through its perforated surface, enabling a gradual transition from the entrance zone into the interior.

Lighting design further reinforces the spatial reading of the project. Linear fixtures trace the primary axes of circulation, while sculptural and directional lighting elements accentuate specific zones of work and interaction. Combined with the abundant daylight entering through large openings, the lighting strategy enhances the rhythm, depth and clarity of the interior environment.

The resulting workspace is defined by openness, adaptability and a coherent spatial language. Through the interplay of transparency, material contrasts and light, the project fosters a dynamic environment that encourages collaboration while accommodating moments of concentration and privacy within a unified architectural framework.

 

Spatial scenography

The aim of the project was the complete conversion of a residence originally designed in the early 1980s by architect N. Valsamakis. Located in Panorama, Thessaloniki, the building now accommodates the Siskou Derma Clinic, a contemporary dermatology center that seeks to redefine the typology of the medical space in Greece, creating an environment of refined familiarity, far removed from the conventions of the typical medical office.

 

Design Philosophy

The original residence is a characteristic example of the modern movement in the city, defined by clear geometric compositions, balanced volumes and a striking white plaster finish that emphasizes the plasticity of its form. The intervention sought to preserve the architectural identity of the initial design while introducing new elements that ensure functional upgrading and spatial coherence.

The design strategy focused on reinterpreting the experience of a medical environment, drawing references from contemporary European clinic architecture. Through subtle interventions and a careful management of materials and proportions, the project achieves a balance between respecting the existing building and accommodating a new functional program.

 

 

Spatial Organization & Materials

The interior environment is organized around the idea of domestic comfort, creating spaces that convey calmness and trust to visitors. The spatial atmosphere draws inspiration from refined modernism and the aesthetics of mid-century design, with materials and objects acting as key carriers of the overall ambiance.

Oak wall paneling, velvet armchairs and carefully selected lighting fixtures compose a palette of materials and textures that expresses understated luxury. The composition remains strictly minimal, allowing the materials to stand out through their texture and natural presence without unnecessary formal gestures. Each object is carefully placed within the space, contributing to a coherent spatial experience defined by clean lines and balanced aesthetics.

 

 

Lighting Design

The scenography of the interior unfolds through subtle shifts of light, textures and visual focal points that guide the visitor’s movement through the space. Lighting operates as a primary tool for shaping the atmosphere.

The lighting design enhances the sense of privacy and comfort while simultaneously highlighting architectural surfaces and interior details. Through discreet lighting interventions, a balance is achieved between functionality and spatial experience.

The final spatial composition is complemented by selected artworks that are integrated into the architectural narrative of the project.

 

Internal connection

The project concerns the reconfiguration and addition of a new building at the American Farm School, aiming to achieve environmental sustainability and the construction of infrastructure compatible with the existing school buildings, with a strong emphasis on accessibility.

 

Design Philosophy

Originally, the school complex consisted of two single-storey buildings constructed in two different phases. The first was set at an elevation of +0.60 m above ground level with a rectangular floor plan, while the second was located at +0.00 m. Communication between the two was provided via staircases, which hindered access for people with disabilities.

The project proposed the construction of an additional building, funded through a donation by the Panteliadis family, in order to create five additional classrooms, spaces for teaching staff, and an internal shared zone for breaks. The optimal solution involved replacing the building located at +0.60 m with a new two-storey linear building at ground level, allowing for an internal connection between the two units.

 

 

Functional Organization

Access to the new building is provided through its central section, marked by a large double-height opening. On either side of the entrance are two administrative offices, while along the rear elevation runs the main circulation axis, which distributes access to the classrooms and terminates at two staircases – one on each side – leading to the upper floor.

Along the extension of the entrance axis, the connection between the two buildings is established, forming an internal shared space for recreation. Classrooms and teachers’ rooms are arranged around this area, while auxiliary functions and restrooms are located at the junction of the two units.

The new two-storey building accommodates a total of eight classrooms—four on each level—arranged in sequence along the front façade so that all enjoy natural daylight and views towards the square in front of the building complex. On the upper floor, smaller-scale shared zones were created, along with a double-height void positioned directly above the entrance area.

 

 

Façade Design & Sustainability

The façade of the new building was designed to be compatible with the morphology of the adjacent volume. Openings are of limited width and positioned at regular intervals, in accordance with national building regulations.

Overall, the design aims to reduce the building’s energy footprint during both construction and operation. At the same time, the new addition ensures the preservation of the existing outdoor layout, maintaining extensive green areas.

The architectural study was awarded first prize in the architectural competition organized by the American Farm School.

 

 

Daily living

The overall approach conveys a contemporary residence of high aesthetic quality, where comfort, functionality, and materiality coexist in harmony, offering a living environment characterized by identity, calmness, and timeless value.

 

Design Philosophy

The apartment is located in the heart of Thessaloniki, on Palaion Patron Germanou Street. The new floor plan has been organized into distinct zones, responding to the everyday life of the family. A spacious common area, with direct access to the two openings on the main façade, accommodates a large kitchen with an island and dining area, along with a comfortable living room. A concealed bar and a small home office, flanked symmetrically by storage units for daily use, stand out for the character they add to the space.

Particular emphasis was placed on storage solutions, which were carefully designed both in terms of their external appearance and internal configuration, ensuring maximum spatial efficiency. The master bedroom includes a walk-in wardrobe, an additional workspace, and a private en-suite bathroom. Two children’s bedrooms and a larger shared bathroom complete the layout of the residence.

 

 

Custom Elements

Starting from the apartment’s existing morphology, a series of custom-built elements were designed to “dress” and resolve areas that required intervention. A characteristic example is the large structural beam that interrupted the open-plan space, which was reinterpreted as a coffered slab and seamlessly integrated into the overall composition. The decision to rely exclusively on custom-made furniture allowed for complete design freedom, without constraints in materials, dimensions, or standardized solutions, ensuring spatial coherence, functionality, and a unified aesthetic identity.

 

 

Materiality and Lighting

The combination of distinctive and diverse materials formed the core of the design concept, adding character and visual interest throughout the apartment while maintaining a balanced and harmonious result. Material transitions were used as a narrative tool, marking the passage from one space to another – such as the patterned tile in the entrance and hallway, which acts both as a clear threshold and as an introductory element to the living areas. Natural and artificial lighting were carefully studied to enhance textures and materials, while also shaping the appropriate atmosphere for everyday living.

 

 

Framing the City

The space is comprised of continuous visual transitions, standing at the threshold between nature and culture.

 

Design Philosophy

“In the beginning, there was… the view,” echoing the words of Hesiod. A singular, breathtaking panorama unfolds -the urban tapestry of Thessaloniki merging with the Thermaic Gulf. In contrast, a landscape of dwarf conifers, blooming native shrubs, and natural stones composes a vivid, crafted natural scene. In medias res -in between- emerges a residence of simplicity, designed to frame the visual experience of these two (non)limits.

 

 

Spatial Organization

A central box-shaped piece of furniture defines the residence (entrance, living room, kitchen, utility room) without strict limits, guiding circulation and creating targeted ‘windows’ to view the (non)limits. In parallel, an interplay of absence and solid material, combined with a ‘non finito’ metal grid, forms a ‘memory wall’ in the living room. Here, travel memories are displayed, creating a sensory connection with the past. Finally, a desk with dual use -as workspace and seat- offers views of sunsets over Mount Olympus, enhancing the experience.

 

 

Material Palette

Contrasts of absence and materiality, along with the metal grid, create atmosphere. Mirror surfaces add shifting perspectives, making reflections vanish as users leave, returning the view as the final image. The design frames the duality of natural and urban landscapes, embedding the panoramic view as the essence of inhabitation.

 

Minimal structure

This single-family residence is situated in Panorama, Thessaloniki, on a plot offering amphitheatrical views of the Thermaic Gulf and the cityscape. The homeowners envisioned a ground-level dwelling with a swimming pool, designed to fully capitalize on the panoramic views of the sea and the adjacent forest. This vision became the guiding principle for the design of the main residence.

 

Design Philosophy

The architectural design leverages the site’s natural topography and orientation. The panoramic views, proximity to a forested area, the linear shape of the plot, and the location near a busy urban thoroughfare inspired a design that opens outward, embracing the surrounding landscape. This resulted in a strong zoning strategy, culminating in the outdoor living space -the terrace with a swimming pool- where the family’s private life unfolds, sheltered from nearby buildings.

The façade features minimal openings, except on the southwest side, which incorporates expansive glass panels. These create a seamless connection between interior and exterior spaces, allowing for unobstructed views. The residence’s clean, modern structure is framed by a perimeter canopy made of exposed concrete, providing both aesthetic continuity and functional shelter.

The living and sleeping areas are organized as distinct, perpendicular volumes -spatially and functionally separate- linked by a transparent corridor that acts as their connecting element. The design is characterized by simple lines and pure geometric forms. Overall, the architectural solution and material palette work together to produce a balanced and cohesive outcome.

 

 

Functional Layout

The shared living spaces are visually and functionally connected to the outdoor environment and the pool. A surrounding canopy provides shaded areas that adapt to weather conditions and sunlight throughout the day. The bedroom wing extends perpendicular to the main volume, while a separate guesthouse, together with the living and sleeping zones, frames the central outdoor space, enhancing the connection between interior and exterior life. The main entrance is tucked into a recessed area of the building, accessed through a landscaped garden with a pergola, which will be planted with flowering and aromatic plants to create an inviting arrival experience.

 

 

Landscape Integration

The landscape design remains as natural as possible, emphasizing soil and native vegetation. Vehicles enter the property from the northeast corner, following a ramp along the edge of the site to an open parking area that provides direct access to the house. The stunning views, forested surroundings, and desire for seamless integration with the natural landscape were the key elements that shaped both the design and form of the residence, which ultimately serves as a private sanctuary, shielded from external disturbances.

 

Transitional axis

The project concerns the conversion of a ground floor warehouse space, on the ring road of Thessaloniki, into the offices of a multinational company.

 

Design Philosophy

The goal is to create a dynamic work environment that serves as a reference point for employees- a “third space” between home and the office -fostering a new kind of sociability. The trapezoidal layout allows for natural light from two sides, shaping the functional floor plan. The 1,000m² office space is organized into three zones: a peripheral zone along the building’s exterior, a central core, and a movement axis connecting them. Open workspaces are strategically placed along the naturally lit sides, while the triangular core houses large meeting rooms and ancillary facilities such as restrooms and storage areas. The workspace is further divided into sections, incorporating small meeting rooms to accommodate employees’ daily needs.

 

 

Material Palette

The project embraces a contemporary aesthetic with earthy tones, balancing natural and synthetic textures through deliberate contrasts. The three zones of the floor plan are visually distinguished by varying finishes on both floors and vertical surfaces. At the entrance and along the main circulation corridor, wood-look flooring enhances warmth and flow, while carpeting in the work areas helps absorb vibrations. In the cafeteria, concrete-look tiles provide a sleek, durable finish. To optimize acoustics and conceal mechanical installations, plasterboard suspended ceilings are installed across the building’s largest surface. Walls feature a mix of white and grey paint, wood paneling, vertical gardens, and glass partition systems, creating a dynamic yet cohesive environment.

 

 

Plan & Lighting Design

The work zone is separated from the movement axis by vertical blinds and flowerbeds, creating a sense of definition while maintaining openness. Careful attention was given to lighting, air conditioning, and soundproofing to ensure a comfortable and efficient workspace. The canteen and playrooms serve as key areas that encourage a shift in activities, fostering a more dynamic work experience. These spaces not only support remote work culture but also redefine the office as a hub for both productivity and social interaction.

 

Modern locality

The Digital Innovation Center of Pfizer in Thessaloniki is the first of its kind globally. The concept is built around the idea of localism, using the city’s unique culture, distinctive features, dominant colors, and materials as inspiration. These elements are seamlessly integrated into a modern, interactive workspace that reflects the essence of Thessaloniki.

 

Design Philosophy

The 7,000m² campus, focused on developing innovative digital solutions, is organized into workstations, breakout areas, and collaboration zones. It also features a cafeteria, wellness center, and fitness rooms for all employees. The layout is designed to promote close proximity, fostering interaction and strengthening social connections. Around the perimeter of the main building, “working neighborhoods” have been established, with shared spaces strategically placed next to the offices to encourage teamwork.

 

 

Spatial Layout

The heart of the campus is the “Agora,” a large, flexible workspace featuring rooms of various sizes and shapes. These spaces are separated by sliding writing surfaces, eco-friendly cork boards, and acoustic felt panels. Designed with the principles of flexible architecture, the layout allows for quick modification and adaptation to the needs of different groups. Connecting the central space to the private meeting rooms is the “Arcade” –a corridor adorned with hanging acoustic panels, illuminated signs, and a floor that evokes the charm of cobbled alleys. This corridor links the northern and southern “neighborhoods.” The interior design draws heavily from the cultural identity of Thessaloniki, incorporating sustainable, local materials and bold graffiti art. This fusion of heritage, contemporary culture, and technology is evident from the entrance colonnades, known as “Meet & Greet.”

 

 

Material Palette & Furniture

Natural timber is paired with perforated, colored terracotta bricks, reminiscent of the red brick found in Thessaloniki’s architecture. These organic materials are contrasted with the project’s core element -technology- highlighted by digital images displayed in a suspended lightbox above the entrance gates. From here, visitors are guided to an amphitheatrical “Square,” with a capacity of 260 people, serving as the primary gathering and presentation space. Work cafés, designed to resemble traditional Greek cafés, and a large central kitchen create a collaborative environment for work and dining, emphasizing this aspect of Greek culture.

The importance of feeling “at home” is immediately evident in the choice of furnishings and the harmonious materials on the lower level, which houses a wellness center complete with a gym, workout rooms, and massage areas. In the open space of this level, game “corners” and a reading room are also incorporated. The project stands as a successful example of a modern, inclusive work environment that encourages people to meet, connect, co-create, and interact.

 

Multidimensional texture

A ground-floor restaurant in the historic center of Thessaloniki is repurposed into a short-term rental residence.

 

Design Philosophy

The primary goal was to maximize the space’s attractiveness and functionality to appeal to the widest possible range of potential users. The design features a versatile, open-plan layout, ideal for hosting parties and other events. The main focus was the design of the residence’s facade, with particular emphasis on maintaining privacy while ensuring the natural flow of light and air. This was achieved through the use of glass bricks and metal electric frames.

 

Interior Layout

In the bedroom area, sliding metal partitions with glass were employed to define the individual spaces, allowing natural light to penetrate while maintaining flexibility. These materials enable the creation of an adaptable environment that meets users’ needs without compromising brightness or connectivity. Additionally, the use of curtains allows for shading when desired and creates a sense of warmth and intimacy, giving users control over lighting and privacy.

 

Material Palette

The combination of different materials brought a strong personality and playful character to the space. Elements such as marble, unique textures, and metal details were blended with transparent materials like glass bricks, offering multi-dimensional textures and vibrant colors. The result is a dynamic and original space that provides visitors with a unique aesthetic experience and distinctive atmosphere.

The jungle in the building

This study focuses on transforming an abandoned urban structure into a dynamic workplace for a group of young, extroverted, curious, and bold engineers.

 

Design Philosophy

This design aims to meet work-related needs as well as stimulate the senses and foster extraordinary interactions among team members and their clients. The concept is simple: “Let’s bring the jungle into the building.” At the office entrance, a circular feature is created, adorned with tropical plants such as Strelitzia nicolai, Howea forsteriana, Beaucarnea, and Asparagus setaceus, complemented by natural rocks.

A fully automated system integrates drip irrigation and dimmable artificial lighting to ensure optimal plant preservation and growth. The cooling effect of plant evaporation, combined with the earthy scent of moistened soil, evokes the sensation of being immersed in nature, guiding users into an environment that feels refreshing and serene.

 

Functional Layout

The main workspace, elevated within a striking wooden “box,” serves as a focal point, clearly defining the axes of movement and separating the auxiliary work and meeting areas. At the same time, it incorporates secondary functions within the storage space below. A monochromatic yellow folie jaune creates a cinematic atmosphere, framing a micro-dwelling that includes a kitchen, bathroom, and bed.

 

Lighting & Atmosphere

The interaction between the user and the lighting shapes the size and intensity of shadows, continuously altering the observer’s perceived images. Through shifting viewing angles, the observer uncovers new connections between the perpetual symmetry of shapes and light.

A modern workplace should transform work from a tedious necessity into a creative endeavor, fostering not only productivity but also social interaction and communication. Whether it’s a basketball challenge, a party with friends, or a film screening, the space adapts to inspire both collaboration and enjoyment. In this architectural narrative, a resourceful and highly imaginative turtle, “Odysseus” (Testudo graeca Linnaeus), takes center stage, adding a playful and symbolic touch to the environment.

Spatial cohesion

The project involves transforming a classic 1970s detached house in a suburban area of Thessaloniki to better accommodate the contemporary needs of its new inhabitants.

 

Design Philosophy

The project’s restoration is centered around key principles: the building’s connection to its surroundings, as well as its bioclimatic, aesthetic, and functional enhancement through a combination of enclosed, transitional, and open spaces. While preserving the existing structure, an effort is made to distinguish between the two-storey and single-storey volumes. Specifically, the two-storey volume maintains its solid characteristics, while the walls of the single-storey volume are demolished, thus creating a series of large openings to increase natural light in the bedrooms.

 

Landscape Design

A key project decision is the restoration of the ground floor’s elevation in relation to the garden. With this adjustment, along with the addition of sunshades and large windows, the interior and exterior spaces now function as a unified whole, offering visual and functional continuity. This creates inviting transitions from the interior of the house to the garden. Additionally, the old wooden canopies are replaced with new aluminum structures featuring pivoting and fixed sunshades, forming pleasant transitional spaces and “outdoor rooms” for seating and dining.

 

Circulation Spaces

The main entrance is now accessed via a curved, “S”-shaped path designed to maximize the open space of the front courtyard. This path highlights the garden’s most prominent feature, a cedar tree, which serves as the focal point of the garden’s design. Ultimately, the interventions to the building’s shell and its surroundings, along with the interior renovations (including the addition of an elevator, upgrades to electrical and mechanical systems, and new finishes), significantly extend the building’s lifespan.

Curved displays

The newly renovated fashion headquarters stands as a testament to the transformative power of design. Guided by the enduring principles of Ancient Greek architecture, the project pushes the boundaries of typical fashion retail design, introducing a new architectural language to the Greek design landscape.

 

Architectural Approach

This design breathes new life into a previously utilitarian building with an unremarkable internal space of 1500m2 that spans across two levels. The existing labyrinth of rooms was demolished, retaining only the metal columns within the showrooms. The entryway serves as the starting point, with a collection of design elements including a striking curved concrete wall seamlessly integrating with a reception desk. This bold design choice defines the space, creating a captivating first impression of the brand identity. The fluid forms are the most striking design element of the space, where curves serve as a powerful visual language to evoke a sense of organic movement, subtly referencing the unique geometry and attention to detail necessary during the fashion design process. Moreover, they act as guides, defining pathways and distinct zones and encouraging visitors to navigate the space and discover different areas.

 

Functional Organisation

The brief called for an open-plan workspace with a layout that incorporates various functionalities between the floors. The ground floor embraces flowing lines, integrating several office areas with a welcoming lobby and kitchen. Soft curves subtly define two showrooms, offering a distinct space for product display. The first-floor houses additional office spaces and essential service areas. The open concept extends upwards through a thoughtfully designed staircase that visually unifies the space.

 

Material Palette

Continuous cement surfaces on walls and floors provide a uniform backdrop with less visual clutter allowing the carefully curated furniture to take centre stage. The colour palette throughout the project leans heavily on earthy tones, which complements the modern aesthetic and creates a sense of grounding and connection, respecting tradition whilst also embracing a modern approach. The metal columns remain exposed within the showrooms; this juxtaposition between raw and refined elements creates a dynamic tension, further enriching the visual narrative.

 

Lighting Design

Lighting plays a crucial role, where strategically placed lights illuminate specific areas, highlighting the captivating curves of the walls and drawing attention to the recurring elements. Track lighting and pendant lights illuminate theproducts effectively and become decorative ceiling elements, striking a perfect balance between functionality and aesthetics and resulting in a project that transcends the boundaries of conventional design.

Change of Use

The project aim is to transform a 25m2 garage into a 32m2 micro-residence, expanding the usable space through the new design and creating a quiet, tranquil apartment detached from the chaotic city scenery.

 

Social Footprint & Sustainability

The ‘micro-residence’ concept addresses the extensive housing problem many cities face. The rapid growth of short-term rentals makes the need for compact, smart solutions even greater. A major project advantage is its small energy footprint due to its size. This feature follows a global approach to social, economic, and environmental planning that addresses the current housing as well as energy crisis.

 

 

Architectural Design

The space spans in two floors, in which an internal balcony and a bespoke double-height bookcase visually connects the two levels. The living room and kitchen are situated on the ground floor level, while the staircase doubles as hidden storage space. To connect the interior with the exterior space, the entry hallway is transformed into a threshold between the residence and the street. In parallel, the new façade blends into the surrounding urban context, painted in subtle tones and lined with custom railing inspired from modernist buildings in the area and ensuring, at the same time, the safety and privacy of the user.

 

 

Material Palette

Steel is the primary material used for the renovation, acting both as a discrete structural component painted in white as well as an accent feature used for the construction of a metallic ladder and the beige railings in the façade. Warm oak wood is matched with white lacquer used for the kitchen surfaces along with carefully selected tiles that clad the bathroom walls and floor.

 

Creative flexibility

The new 1000m² offices were designed from the ground up to ensure that every corner within the space encourages collaboration, ideation and brainstorming at any given moment.

 

Spatial Organization

The layout is organized in a rectangular shape with a 100m2 interior courtyard at its center. The reception’s design conveys the idea of an unconventional working environment, with minimal aesthetic and guided by the company’s brand colours. The ceiling is defined by an industrial blue sky, while the reception area offers additional space for short meetings or work. The concept of maximum flexibility is carried out throughout the office, where spaces are organized in different typologies.

 

Exclusive Designs

Marketing and sales are the first departments to be distinguished in the space. Specifically designed webnests, featuring custom metal structures, accommodate 6 to 8 cozy workstations, complete with TVs and whiteboards. This setup facilitates seamless problem-solving and brainstorming sessions and enables each team member to share information on the screens at any time.

Bar marketing is the first brainstorming area, consisting of a large table and a series of seats arranged in a bar layout. The first meeting room has whiteboards on the walls and a custom-made ping pong table seating 8 people. Several think tanks become ideal for isolated work, private calls or even as an alternative workspace.

 

Custom Elements

Drawing inspiration from the word “disrupt”, a term prevalent in cloud companies, the main meeting room’s design embodies innovation since half of the room seamlessly extends outwards towards the courtyard creating a dynamic space that blurs the boundaries between interior and exterior. The meeting room is clad with vertical panels and includes a 12-seat table as well as a 16-seat sofa. Its walls are lined with whiteboard as well as a custom-made structure with hidden lighting.

The brainstorming room is designed as a small theatre, with the opposite wall also covered in whiteboard. The theatre is constructed in such a way that allows space for stools, which can be used for large group meetings. Adjacent to the brainstorming room is another private office, a four-person meeting bar with a TV and the RnD area with an additional 8-seat webnest. Finally, there is an additional office space filled with workstations with a central sliding mechanism that allow employees to move their desks around.

 

Innovative Uses

TV screens are installed in all workspaces, allowing employees to share information via a wireless network. A series of tripod desks offer twelve additional seats for workers and have a special moving mechanism installed that serves as storage as well as a temporary seating for a colleague.

Entertainment plays an important role in the office environment. Throughout the space there are several board and video games, including two large Score 4’s as well as a dedicated playroom illuminated with hidden lighting and clad with high-strength fabrics. The kitchen-dining room features 360o doors and small house-shaped structures with TV screens for enjoying a casual lunch break or impromptu work discussions. The courtyard becomes an extension of the dining room and includes indoor and outdoor seating to accommodate all employee needs.

Contrasting concepts

Two identical properties were combined to establish an optical store in the suburbs of Thessaloniki. The distinctive green hue that defines the space is inspired by the natural tint of glass, a result of iron oxidation inherent in the material.

 

Spatial Layout

The building’s symmetry was preserved and accentuated by emphasizing key structural elements, including the two “eyes” on the façade, the central cross-shaped beams, and the dominant central support. The floor plan was designed around a central feature -a massive block of stacked glass surfaces that anchors the space, serving as both a display and storage area for products. This element acts as the store’s “control center,” organizing its core functions -storage, optical testing, and checkout- while defining a circular flow of movement around it.

 

 

Custom Structures

The custom seating is seamlessly integrated into the central element, designed to visually “disappear” when not in use. Mirrors, essential to the store’s functionality, also play a key morphological role, strategically positioned at the core to break the continuity and geometric “weight” of the structure. Product displays are arranged in two main internal showcases, extending along both surfaces of the side walls.

 

 

Design Philosophy

The exterior features a low-profile curtain wall, providing an unobstructed view into the store. A handcrafted curtain surface frames the openings, subtly directing the gaze outward. At the back of the store, the archive, optometry laboratory, and ancillary spaces are symmetrically arranged within the existing shell, enclosed in two separate, semi-private volumes for protection and organization.

The interplay of geometry, spatial relationships, and movement is designed to evoke simplicity, drawing attention to materiality and the immersive experience of exploration. Glossy surfaces contrast with the raw, unfinished shell, emphasizing the passage of time and the evolution of the space. The hybrid nature of the interior is further expressed through fractured mirrors and glossy, green-painted surfaces, creating shifting visual compositions that change dynamically as one moves through the store.

The core concept was the “correlation of dual existence” -the fusion of contrasting spatial ideas, elements, and materials. It explores the interplay between the natural and the artificial, the precise and the imperfect, the fragile and the sturdy, the solid and the fragmented, the partial and the complete, the unfinished and the definitive, repetition and uniqueness.

 

In an urban neighborhood characterized by tall trees along the sidewalks, an abandoned semi-basement in a typical apartment building of the ‘70ies is converted into an architectural studio.

Connecting to the Urban Environment

The main goal was the connection and the interaction with the urban environment. The studio is an expression of extroversion with flowing interior workspaces which lead the gaze to the outdoor greenery. The design of the yard creates a smooth transition from the public space to the entrance level through a ramp, offering the employees a vital space for relaxation and making the outdoor area a fundamental part of the studio.

Lighting Design

Full exploitation of the facade openings maximizes natural lighting. The refractions of light in polycarbonate sheets are a brightness factor, diversifying the atmosphere during the day.

Functional Layout

The open floor plan interior, with light filled spaces, enhances human interaction, collaboration, and constant exchange of ideas. The central column, made of concrete in its original raw form, acts as a reference point with the main functions arranged around it, and simultaneously connects the past with the present. A wooden box at the back encloses all supplementary uses.

Architectural Narrative

Light contributes as a conceptual element, beyond the ambience, and wellbeing values. Illuminated path unifies all spaces of the studio and signals the three main phases of design process. Inspiration visualized by the allegorical placement of a shower at the beginning of the path, passes through collaboration and finally as the idea matures fills up a white canvas in every new project.

The Open, International Architectural Ideas Competition ArXellence 2, an initiative by ALUMIL, set the framework for highlighting innovative design as the ideal approach for creating the new Central Business District of Thessaloniki (CBD) and prescribing a sustainable urban development for the west waterfront of the city. The international architectural community responded to the call by the company with 1464 enrollments and 173 submitted entries, underscoring the necessity of redesigning this historical yet long-defunct area, following sustainability principles.

The culmination of the competition will see the official Exhibition, from September 11-26, in the heart of the west entrance to the city, the Old Abattoir. All 173 submitted entries will be presented in the outdoor space of the International Center for Digital Transformation and Skills – Cisco (DT&S), launching a “dialog” with the site, its present image, and its people’s testimonials.

Concurrent to the exhibition, a series of parallel events will bring attention to the crucial importance of implementing one of the entries, will facilitate contact between the citizens and the history and features of the site, and record their preferences on the desired shape of the west entrance of the city.

• Round table discussion: “Seeking the Possible and the Required between Cultural Heritage & Modern Architecture.” [Saturday, September 11, 2021]
• Photography Competition [August 12-September 10, 2021]
• Thematic tours [Saturday 11 September, Friday 17 September, Sunday 19 September, Friday 24 September]
• Online poll on the entries [3-26 September 2021]
• School and institutional visits [13-26 September 2021]

Detailed information and ways of participation to the parallel events will be announced soon.

With this initiative, in the framework of its corporate responsibility honoring its domestic base, ALUMIL aspires to set the grounds for the competition, the exhibition, and parallel events to underline – through architecture and contemporary urban design – the fact that Thessaloniki is a global city, with the potential of undertaking a leading role in the near future; a city that will boast not only high-level corporate space but also zones combining commercial activity with prime quality housing.

More information:

Exhibition website

Exhibition video

Competition website

The Competition was organized and financed by ALUMIL, with the support of the International Union of Architects (UIA). Its proceedings complied with the UNESCO Model Rules for International Architecture and Urban Design Competitions and the UIA handbook of good practice. The Competition was held under the auspices of the Ministry of the Environment and Energy, the Municipality of Thessaloniki, the Prefecture of Central Macedonia, the Technical Chamber of Greece / Central Macedonia Section, and the Union of Architects of Thessaloniki.

Arxcellence 2, the architectural competition for a new Central Business District in Thessaloniki, hosted by Alumil, reached 1464 registrations from 90 countries, and 173 architectural entries were submitted for evaluation. The evaluation process was held online, involving an international Jury, that concluded in 6 prizes and 4 ex aequo mentions; those 10 projects were deemed as the most responsive to the relevant UIA guidelines.

On February 23^rd, 2021, the online award ceremony will provide architects with the stage for debating their innovative ideas. Furthermore, a physical forum is scheduled for the month of June, where the international jury members will elaborate on their outlook upon the competition.

To follow the online award ceremony, you may register here.

Furthermore, you may watch the ceremony on Facebook, through live streaming.

Ek magazine is a media partner of the competition.

“ArXellence 2”, ALUMIL’s international architectural competition, was successfully completed on Saturday, November 21^st, with the announcement of the 6 prizes and 4 honorable mentions. After the first successful “ArXellence” competition in 2018, the company decided to organize “ArXellence 2”. The competition was endorsed by the International Union of Architects (UIA) and was carried out in constant and close cooperation with UIA’s International Competitions Commission (ICC Council). ALUMIL, as the organizer, ensured full transparency and implementation of UNESCO’s international standards for Architectural Competitions. The members of the international voting jury guaranteed the results, as they evaluated the proposals and awarded 6 prizes and 4 honorable mentions, according to the competition’s brief. EK magazine is a media partner at the competition.

The Challenge

ALUMIL made an open call for proposals and ideas regarding the redevelopment of Thessaloniki’s western coastal side. “ArXellence’s 2” subject was aiming to receive innovative ideas from the global architectural community about the creation of a new Central Business District (CBD). According to the criteria set by UIA, the Business District should be characterized by high energy efficiency and sustainability, redefining the west gate of the city to welcome citizens and entrepreneurs (contribution to sustainable development, social impact, economic viability etc.). The evolution and redesign of Thessaloniki’s misused western waterfront will redefine its position on the international map and improve the quality of life for citizens. Furthermore, Thessaloniki will restore its prestige as a leading city in the Balkan area, attracting investors, businesses, and new visitors.

ArXellence 2… in numbers

The participation in “ArXellence 2” exceeded our expectations: 1.464 registrations from 90 countries and 173 submitted projects. Due to restrictions that coronavirus pandemic has caused, the evaluation of the proposals was conducted online following the international protocols. The Jury examined in detail every submission entry via teleconference and simultaneous projection of the proposals created by architects around the world. The overall evaluation by the international Jury resulted in 6 prizes and 4 equal honorable mentions, meeting the criteria of UIA.

The Jury

Voting jurors

Kasper Guldager Jensen, UIA representative (Architect, Denmark)

Nikolaos Salpingidis, Alumil representative (Innovation Director, Greece)

Gabriella Carillo (Architect, Mexico)

Lauren Haiden (Architect, South Africa)

Dimitrios P. Tsomocos (Finance & Management, UK/Greece)

Alternate jurors

Sara Martin Camara, UIA representative (Architect, France)

Oren Sussman (Law & Finance, Israel)

Professional Advisor of the Competition

Evangelos Lyroudias, Alumil Consultant (Architect, Greece)

The Prizes

The 6 prizes awarded by the Jury of “ArXellence 2” are the following:

1^st Prize

Title of proposal: The Lodge

Competitor ID: d15bd86f-2938

Name of participant: Alejandro Piqueras

Architectural office: ALE Studio

Country: Spain

2^nd Prize

Title of proposal: The Green Ηub

Competitor ID: 20d6099c-5616

Names of participants: Angeliki Tzifa, Sophia Nikolaidou

Country: U.S.A.

3^rd Prize

Title of proposal: Thessaloniki Green Pier

Competitor ID: c24d129b-ca90

Names of participants: Mircea Mogan, Alexandra Virlan

Architectural office: Mogan Architecture

Country: Netherlands

4^th Prize

Title of proposal: Bioclimatic Urban Lighthouse

Competitor ID: 7fcb61a5-e4bc

Names of participants: Alberto Mizrahi, Guillermo Lesch, Osvaldo Alvarez Rojas, Valeria Franck, Federico Menichetti, Leticia Alfaro, Philippa Jane Page

Country: France

5^th Prize

Title of proposal: De-fragmenting the Productive City

Competitor ID: 6a1e10a2-7174

Names of participants: Maria Chrysoula Akrivou, Antonis Athanasiou

Country: Netherlands

6^th Prize

Title of proposal: A view of the bay – A glance at the future

Competitor ID: 5fc57b05-4a53

Names of participants: Marco Broekman, Floris Van der Zee, Martha Seitanidou, Jordy Stamps, Yunshih Chen, Timothy Simons, Marina Lysenkova

Architectural office: Bura urbanism

Country: Netherlands

Honorable Mentions

(alphabetical order by country)

Honorable Mention

Title of proposal: The Gates of Thessalonica

Competitor ID: d7633b4d-e29c

Name of participant: Ivo Panteleev

Architectural office: ADA – Agency Design & Architecture

Country: Bulgaria

Honorable Mention

Title of proposal: Ships Forest

Competitor ID: a8ef5994-ee73

Names of participants: Perraguin Olivier, Spiegelstein Jacques, Letourmy Laurent

Architectural office: hOP/ar

Country: France

Honorable Mention

Title of proposal: Thessaloniki Wave (T-WAVE)

Competitor ID: cb17c371-dd7c

Names of participants: Andrea Michelini, Jacopo Berlendis, Alberto Gasparini, Tommaso Tassi, Alessandro Bonaventura, Mauro Baessato, Rade Batinica, Antonio Spena, Carlo Leonardi, Filippo Marsigli, Roberto Franchini, Giancarlo Franchini, Giacomo Gola, Davide Cappochin, Giuseppe Cappochin, Amarda Velcani, Thimi Rudi, Charis Christodoulou, Avra Bousda, Margarita Lekka, Vilma Chastaoglou, Matteo Taramelli, Roberto Zuccon

Architectural office: F&M Ingegneria Spa

Country: Italy

Honorable Mention

Title of proposal: City’s New Pulse

Competitor ID: c981fd16-5b56

Names of participants: Esteban Colmenares, Sanhita Chaturvedi, Shashank Jain, Anshul Bhargava, Ben Kikkawa, Joao Pedro Costa, Florentina Tsakiri

Architectural offices: Studio C+C / Studio 4215

Country: United Kingdom

The outcome and future steps

ALUMIL, being a leading international company specialized in architectural aluminium systems, organized this competition aiming to share the vision of a city that improves the quality of people’s lives. We made an open call for creative and innovative ideas and we are glad that this challenge inspired so many people all around the world. Despite the unprecedented difficulties due to the pandemic, we insisted on conducting the competition by maintaining its international character. We are proud not only for the large number of proposals we received from so many countries, but also because all these submissions were evaluated by an international Jury of highly qualified professionals. We believe that an ideas competition provides the necessary expertise that is crucial for every type of spatial planning. Architectural design has the power to invoke cultural evolution, and through architectural competitions we have the chance to offer new possibilities of improvement to our cities.

“ArXellence 2” was a competition that reopened the discussion about the redesign of Thessaloniki’s urban space and created a platform full of inspirational architectural ideas regarding the redevelopment of the city’s western waterfront. But most of all, “ArXellence 2” sent a positive and confident message of hope and optimism, based on advanced urban development and sustainability.

Founded in 315 BC and named after princess Thessalonike of Macedon, the sister of Alexander the Great, Thessaloniki is a historic city that has developed through the ages. Thanks to its location at the northwest corner of the Aegean Sea, Thessaloniki became a multi-ethnic metropolis. Hellenes, Romans, Ottoman Turks, Slavs and Jews passed through the centuries, leaving their mark on the city’s culture and architectural style.

The west coast, including the port of the city, used to be a manufacturing zone and is now uniquely located to spearhead the development of the city and its regeneration into a vibrant regional and international pole. Unfortunately, today the west waterfront area is an underused urban area representing probably one of the most underdeveloped areas of the city. It weakens the city’s image, livability, and productivity. Several past initiatives to facilitate the change towards urban growth and productivity have not been successful. Τhe challenge still remains.

The Architecture Competition “ArXellence 2” is an Open & Free, One-stage International Ideas Competition that aims to highlight innovative design as the ideal tool for the success of the new Central Business District (CBD) of Thessaloniki. The competition is sponsored & organized by ALUMIL – an international company based in Greece, specialized in the development of advanced architectural aluminium systems – and endorsed by the International Union of Architects (UIA). It will be conducted according to the UNESCO Standard Regulations for International Competitions in Architecture and Town Planning and the UIA best practice recommendations.

In more detail, the subject of the competition is the design of a new CBD at a wider area of 120.000 m² behind the port. The area’s advantageous location next to the city’s port, near the historic center of the city and quite close to important road and rail networks, as well as near industrial zones and logistics infrastructure, offers opportunities for sustainable economic development. Moreover, the area will be upgraded significantly upon the completion of major prospective infrastructure projects, as the upgrade of the port, Thessaloniki’s new Metro network and the potential development of the western suburban railway. Last but not least, Thessaloniki’s airport ongoing redevelopment will result (by 2021) to an expanded modern airport with a significantly increased capacity, connecting the city, further, with the world.

Thus, with the potential of redevelopment being strong, the Architectural Ideas Competition “ArXellence 2” represents a major challenge of urban regeneration. It is the first, and most decisive, step towards meeting the expectations of a new, cosmopolitan Thessaloniki. It is hoped that visionary competition schemes will pave the way for the regeneration of this decaying urban area through local government initiatives and private sector participation. Confirming its gravity and importance to the public, the competition runs under the auspices of the Greek Ministry of Environment and Energy, the Central Macedonia Regional Government, the Municipality of Thessaloniki, the Technical Chamber of Greece (Central Macedonia Branch) and the Architects Council of Thessaloniki.

The competition started on the 9 March 2020 and the registrations will be open until 25 May 2020. The due date for submissions is on 15 October 2020. The prizes will amount to 60.000 € and the 6 winners, along with 4 honorary mentions, will be announced on 25 November 2020. The awards ceremony will be followed by a 20-day exhibition in Thessaloniki Town Hall and a similar exhibition in Thessaloniki Music Hall. To get the official UIA approved competition brief and to register, please visit the competition’s website: www.alumil.com/arxellence.