This project is a high end penthouse apartment renovation in the prestigious area of Kolonaki in Athens. Retaining only the concrete frame, DARE Studio transformed a typical 70s apartment floor plan to suit the current urban residents’ needs with peaceful, earthy and modern interiors.

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The 70s Floor Plan

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The 70s floor plan that we faced, was characterised by an entrance lobby, an isolated kitchen and a maid's room with a separate entrance for back of house facilities. The dining area was separated from the lounge with a double sliding door and the bedrooms shared bathroom facilities. In short, the old layout, as expected in the 70s, was very boxy with too many partitions and enclosures, blocking the invaluable Greek sunshine and attractive views. The old interiors, suffocated the apartment with gold and blue wallpaper as well as dark mahogany wooden cladding everywhere.

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A new twist

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Our modern take on the apartment raises its value as a property and turns the space brighter, more open and airy, taking advantage of the plentiful Athenian sunshine. Moreover our design maximises the stunning views of the Sea, the Acropolis and the Lycabetus Hill.

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The geometries we created cleverly hide the concrete frame and mechanical services while drawing inspiration from the fluid and curvy architecture of the Greek Islands. The architectural design seamlessly blends organic and geometric shapes, art deco and contemporary elements.

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The new floor plan consists of one large space in the East, overlooking the Lycabetus Hill that hosts the entrance lobby, main lounge, fireplace lounge, bespoke bar, kitchen and dining areas. In the West, facing the Acropolis, a seamless beautifully clad corridor leads to the bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms. Finally, we have created a WC with distinct character, which acts as an element of surprise to the guests that use it.

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Materials & Interiors

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All the interiors are custom made and have been specifically designed for this apartment. Ranging from the entrance door to the lighting fixtures, every element serves a special purpose and has a reason for being, whether that it is sentimental, structural or connected to a memory or sensation.

The materials used for the interiors are natural wood, glass, stone, steel and decorative concrete.

 

Blending natural with industrial, we manage to create a calm and peaceful atmosphere within the urban, lively Athenian block.