A Transformative Design Journey: The Kifisia Apartment by Georgios Apostolopoulos
In the heart of Kifisia, a suburb of Athens, the Stroggyli Polykatoikia building stands as a testament to modernist architecture, originally designed by Nikos Despotidis in the 1970s. Hidden among its circular forms and unique structural features, a remarkable transformation has taken place within one of its apartments, thanks to the innovative vision of architect Georgios Apostolopoulos.
A Blank Canvas
The apartment, spanning 80 square meters, was initially used as a psychiatrist’s office and in dire need of revitalization. Upon embarking on this renovation journey, Apostolopoulos understood the importance of stripping the space back to its core. By removing all internal partitions, he revealed the intrinsic structure of the apartment, opening up a world of possibilities for contemporary living.
Embracing Fluidity
Rejecting the traditional concept of fixed walls, Apostolopoulos introduced a series of flexible joinery elements that empower the space to adapt according to the needs of its inhabitants. “We wanted to push for a more unconventional way of living,” he stated, noting how the innovative use of transformable partitions challenges common perceptions of privacy and utility in residential layouts. This approach creates a “fluid layout,” allowing the home to ebb and flow, transforming from a spacious entertainment area to a cozy retreat seamlessly.
The Heart of the Home
At the core of this dynamic design is a central kitchen, which serves as both a functional workspace and a social hub. Organized around a spacious island that accommodates all necessary appliances, this area acts as an anchor within the broader open-plan layout. The surrounding spaces, furnished with mobile and freestanding furniture, can be rearranged quickly to cater to various scenarios, from hosting friends to enjoying a quiet evening at home.
Thoughtful Separation
The main bedroom is strategically positioned at one end of the apartment, separated from the living area by a full-height unit that incorporates essential utilities, such as air-conditioning and wardrobes. The design allows for complete enclosure when needed, while the doors can effortlessly slide away, aligning seamlessly with the joinery, thus maintaining an uncluttered aesthetic.
Ingenious Space Management
Transforming the traditional bedroom into a multifunctional space was another key element of the renovation. The second bedroom can be entirely opened to the living area or closed off using sliding doors that nest away when not in use. This adaptability ensures that the apartment is never confined to a single function, enhancing its allure for guests who may stay for a few days.
Moreover, a cleverly designed fold-down bed and drop-down desk make this room an ideal setting, transitioning from a guest bedroom to a practical workspace or dining area, all within moments.
Aesthetic Cohesiveness
To achieve the desired “cave-like” atmosphere, Apostolopoulos employed a monochromatic material palette that emphasizes consistency and sophistication. The use of microcement flooring extends across both the interior and the curved terrace, effectively blurring the lines between inside and outside. Textured paint in complementary tones on the walls and joinery creates a seamless integration of new components with the original architecture, enriching the overall spatial experience.
Preserving Character
Despite the extensive renovations, Apostolopoulos retained a few of the apartment’s original features, such as a remodeled hearth now functioning as a modern bio-ethanol fireplace. This blend of old and new offers a narrative thread that honors the building’s history while embracing modern comforts.
Crafting a Unique Identity
Georgios Apostolopoulos, having studied architecture at prestigious institutions like The Bartlett and Oxford Brookes University, founded his Athens-based studio in 2022. His commitment to pushing the boundaries of interior design is evident in projects across the city, including various residential interiors that continue to reshape the urban landscape.
The Kifisia apartment not only exemplifies innovative design but also serves as a blueprint for versatile living in today’s fast-paced world. With sliding walls, hidden doors, and adaptable furnishings, it invites a lifestyle that is both fluid and functional, perfect for a contemporary urban dwelling.
The transformation of this space marks a new chapter in Athenian residential architecture, showcasing a bold, redefined approach that echoes through the city’s evolving narrative.