Modern Apartment Renovation in Athens: Olivier Apartment by AKA

Nestled in the heart of Athens, Greece, the Olivier Apartment stands as a testament to the innovative approach of AKA Architects to modern apartment renovation. Completed in 2023 and sprawling over 200 square meters, this duplex apartment has been transformed into a warm, multifunctional space that caters to the needs of a young family, all while respecting the original brutalist character of the building.

Embracing Brutalist Architecture with a Modern Twist

Industrial Chic Meets Family Comfort

The renovation of the Olivier Apartment showcases a unique blend of industrial elements with the coziness required for family living. Exposed concrete walls and ceilings, alongside hardwood floors and metallic elements, form the backbone of this design. The architects, Katerina Apostolou & Minna Colakis, have masterfully balanced the raw, industrial feel with the warmth needed to make a house feel like a home.

A Journey Through Color and Light

One of the most striking interventions in the modern apartment renovation was the application of a translucent varnish across the concrete surfaces. This technique introduced an airy lightness to the material, with aqua blue on the lower floor for calmness and light pink on the upper floor for a playful atmosphere. This color scheme has transformed the apartment, adding depth and a modern flair to the space.

Design Details That Make a Difference

Custom Woodwork and Metal Elements

The upper floor of the Olivier Apartment is a showcase of custom woodwork, designed to encase the building's concrete skeleton with a warm embrace. The wooden elements, with their geometric complexity, add both aesthetic beauty and functional value to the living space. Metal elements such as bookshelves, railings, and a striking floating staircase have been painted in petrol blue, integrating seamlessly into the apartment's color palette.

Mirrors and Furniture: The Final Touches

Strategic placement of mirrors alongside the staircase not only enhances the beauty of this central feature but also amplifies the spaciousness of the apartment. The designers have also taken special care in designing furniture that is both beautiful and functional. From a circular kitchen table with built-in storage for children's toys to a dining table with a fabric pendant light, each piece contributes to the apartment's modern and playful character.

A Model for Modern Apartment Renovation in Athens

The Olivier Apartment by AKA Architects stands as a beacon of modern apartment renovation in Athens, blending industrial chic with the warmth of family living. Through thoughtful interventions, innovative design, and a keen eye for detail, this project demonstrates how brutalist architecture can be transformed into a modern, functional, and inviting space.

As we continue to explore the potential of architectural renovation in urban settings, the Olivier Apartment serves as a source of inspiration and a testament to the possibilities of modern design.

All photographs are work of Alina Lefa