This project is a complete renovation of a 1970s house originally designed by Dimitris & Suzana Antonakakis, known for their work that blends modernist principles with local Greek architectural traditions to create human-centered designs. The main goal was to preserve the original architectural integrity, while modernizing the interior for contemporary living and also infusing in the design process the unique mid-century furniture collection of the owners.
This residence hosts a separate guest apartment on the lower lever, with two bedrooms, kitchen, living room and bathroom. The rest of the residence spans on three levels, one for the master bedroom and its en-suite bathroom, one for the living room and finally one for the kitchen and dining room.
Small changes were made to the layout – mostly in the bedrooms, in order to create more ambient and clean spaces, reducing the noise that was created by later additions to the original structure. The unique cavities in the masonry of the house were preserved and creatively utilized, as for example, two libraries in the main living room, blending steel with black wood textures. The original hardwood flooring was refinished with a natural varnish adding to the calm and neutral color palette.
The kitchen has been reimagined as a sleek, functional hub, with bespoke cabinetry and high-end finishes. Natural materials, such as marble countertops and wood panels, create a tactile contrast with the contemporary design elements. The high ceiling of the room was revealed, promoting a sense of openness and ease that aligns with modern living, while the garden-facing windows create a picturesque backdrop for the daily functions.
Moving to the private areas, the master bedroom is a low height cave-like retreat with wide openings overlooking into the wild vegetation of the garden. The walk-in closet was moved to the back end of the room in a linear array, while still ensuring natural lighting and ventilation.
The bathrooms, with bespoke furnishing and high-quality materials, add a splash of color in the predominantly monochromatic palette of the house.
The interior study seamlessly balances contemporary minimalism with bespoke craftsmanship, with all fixed equipment within the home being custom-designed to be integrated with the architectural lines. Most of the pieces were constructed of raw steel sheets, like the main entrance pivot door.
Overall, this renovation attempts to honor the architectural heritage of the original 1970s design while incorporating contemporary elements that enhance comfort and livability. The bespoke interior solutions, combined with timeless furniture from the owner’s collection, create a harmonious blend of the past and present, offering a home rather than a house.
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