We have been assigned a complete renovation of a 100 sq.m. apartment from the 1970s in Glyfada. Originally, the apartment featured all typical characteristics of its era—segmented rooms, standardized layouts, and 70s mainstream materials (parquet flooring, mosaic floors, etc.). The owners decided on a full redesign, aiming to create a contemporary and welcoming residence suitable either for both their private use or for short-term rental.

In terms of layout, the bathroom and kitchen were repositioned, the corridor was opened up, and all flooring and finishes in the kitchen, bathroom, and WC were fully replaced. Regarding materials, the proposal seeks to upgrade the entire space in line with contemporary living standards, while preserving the atmosphere and material character of the period.

One of the main design gestures is the introduction of curved geometries, which run throughout the apartment—from ceilings to fixed and movable furniture. These curves function not only as morphological feature but also as a spatial organizing device, integrating lighting and subtly defining functional zones.

The unification of the kitchen with the dining and living areas was another key design move, emphasizing on the linear bar–counter clad in deep green Indian marble. This element serves both as a focal point and as a functional feature for everyday use. This natural material, with its distinctive color, adds a sense of understated luxury and magnitude, while harmoniously complementing the wooden surfaces of both the new kitchen and the parquet flooring.

The original parquet flooring, laid in a herringbone pattern, was restored with care, allowing it to emerge as a “timeless canvas” that connects the apartment’s past with its new identity. This choice was guided not only by aesthetics and historical continuity but also by sustainability, significantly reducing the need for new flooring materials.

The palette of materials and colors is composed of soft, earthy tones, dominated by warm off-whites and natural and dark wood, combined with more vibrant accents in furniture and selected details. At the same time, the selection of contemporary lighting fixtures, furniture, artworks, and decorative elements with organic forms enhances and complements the overall character of the space.

Overall, the design seeks to establish a balanced composition between old and new. Through curved geometries, natural materials, and contemporary lines, the apartment is transformed into a flexible and refined living environment—a quiet “urban retreat.”