The extant building, nested in the city centre of Athens, is one of the finest examples of modernist housing in Greece – and potentially an early precursor to brutalism, imposed by topological factors in Greece. That was – considering his work – one of the main concerns of the architect Aggelos Siagas. Namely, incorporating the principles of modernism, in an effective way, in 1930s Athens. The initial design by Siagas stipulated two independent maisonettes, adjacent not only vertically, but also horizontally. This solution of Athenian housing, alongside many innovations in the design, constitute the particularity and genius of the building. In the forthcoming years, the initial design was abandoned and more conservative approaches were employed, changing not only the interior, but also the facade of the building.

These pictures capture the essence of the building’s original condition, as it was found, while showing the process of its restoration.

In a rural town Ioannina, lying in a valley of the Greek Alps of Epirus, the dwelling is located in the suburb with picturesque character. The stone house falls into the traditional typology of Greek rural houses, with only one level and very simple layout. The presence of the stone is dominant between the very few materials used, like wood on the roof and concrete on the floor.

While working on the competition for the renovation of The Circus Hostel, we wanted to bring together a contemporary minimalist approach to design with the playful atmosphere of a circus. We got inspired by the existing infrastructure of the hostel, as well as the forms, the curtains and the hanging elements of the tents of the circuses. Curtains, hanging lights, as well as minimalist furniture in black and white come together to create a cool yet cozy vibe for the rooms of The Circus Hostel in Berlin. The colors respect and enhance the existing color palette used in the hostel. This way we created an atmosphere that is cool and cozy, urban and dreamy simultaneously.