design magazine

Article by Konstantinos Deloudis
Posted on January 31st, 2011
in Interiors & Zege Architects

Awe-inspiring and imposing, the presence of wood-its substance and feel-characterises the "essential" interior of this apartment in the heart of Athens, situated in one of the oldest buildings, dating from 1930. The apartment spans the top three floors of the building, to cater for the needs of a four-member family. The apartment was completely refurbished-since the outer walls of the previous apartments remained-under the supervision of the firm Zege (Tasos Zeppos, Eleni Georgiadi and Associates), who were also responsible for the selection and arrangement of the furniture.

All the outer spaces-smaller or bigger balconies-were decked with teak wood in black colour, the outer doors were made of white Nagon wood, while a series of large pots with Mediterranean plants, bamboo canes and some water elements, created a warm, inviting atmosphere, taking full advantage of the imposing view of Mount Lycabettus and the Acropolis. Inside, the element of wood prevails in all three levels-on the oak, artificially whitened floors, doors and bookcases made of the same material, painted to look like wenge-and the furniture itself. This furniture, with its simple and modern lines completes an atmosphere-in white, brown and black-essential and perfectly balanced between functionality and aesthetics and a certain order with an emotional dimension, since the patina of old times-real or artificial-is felt everywhere. Works of art from East and West, small collectibles and some functional antiques, lend the space an extra personal dimension. The double use of the large table is truly ingenious, since it can be used both as desk and dinner table, separated by the kitchen with a tableau reading "food for thought..." literally and metaphorically. Finally, the top level of the apartment holds an aesthetic surprise. Laid out like an oriental sitting room (the ottoman oda), with a fireplace and bathroom, disposes an extra "wooden" privilege. The floor, which is entirely made of carpentry from old Istanbul houses.