Nestled in the charming residential area of Ilioupoli, Athens, a semi-basement apartment tells a story of transformation. Originally designated as a storage space for an array of unused furniture, this apartment was envisioned as a future living area for one of the family’s children. As the need for space grows in the bustling urban environment, this converted area now serves as a cozy, autonomous living unit, showcasing thoughtful design elements that blend warmth, creativity, and practicality.
Table of Contents
A Welcoming Entrance
Upon entering the apartment, guests are greeted by a unique entrance designed to foster a sense of welcome. This thoughtful detail offers a space to sit down and remove shoes, accompanied by ample storage solutions. The floor features a custom ceramic design that invites exploration. Although the space was initially dark and exposed concrete dominated the walls, the ambiance has evolved into a captivating cave-like atmosphere, preserving its unique character while introducing warmth and light.
Open-Plan Living
Transitioning from the entrance, this semi-basement apartment opens up into a spacious, flowing layout. The living area features a comfortable coffee table and two inviting seats, perfect for lounging or entertaining. A hanging screen facilitates movie nights, bringing an element of fun to the space. A bookshelf, ingeniously designed as part of the partition between the living room and bedroom, adds a touch of sophistication while maintaining a light profile that doesn’t overpower the room.
In the center of the apartment, a custom-made steel dining table serves as a focal point, comfortably accommodating six people. Positioned perpendicular to the outdoor views, it ensures that everyone seated can appreciate the light and ambiance from outside. The design encourages togetherness, making meals a communal experience.
A Cleverly Designed Kitchen
The kitchen, cleverly split into two main furniture elements, breaks away from traditional room confines, creating a more integrated feel within the living space. Featuring essential appliances like a fridge and oven, alongside generous drawer and pantry space, it embodies both functionality and style. Laminate materials contribute to a modern aesthetic, while a striking black Greek marble backsplash adds an elegant touch.
A standout feature of the kitchen is the island, designed for social interaction. With cupboards that open on all four sides, it facilitates movement and accessibility, allowing for an inviting atmosphere where cooking can become a communal event. On the opposite side, the bathroom wall is adorned with further shelving, providing additional storage while enhancing the kitchen’s seamless flow into the rest of the apartment.
The Bedroom Retreat
As the day transitions to night, the bedroom space evolves from an open concept to a cozy retreat. During daylight hours, it remains open, allowing natural light to fill the area. In the evening, a sliding steel partition and two distinct curtains—varying in height, materials, and colors—offer privacy while adding an intriguing layer to the design. This clever differentiation not only enhances the visual appeal but also creates the illusion of more space, fostering a relaxing atmosphere.
The bedroom features a wall covered in cork, which serves a dual purpose: sound insulation and aesthetic enhancement. Adjacent to the bedroom, a custom-made closet combines stylish design with practical storage, ensuring that every inch of space is utilized effectively. A generous mirror further amplifies the sense of openness, while metal shelves discreetly camouflage functional elements like the air conditioning unit and the secondary exit doorway.
A Bathroom Oasis
In stark contrast to the rest of the apartment, the bathroom presents a striking blue hue and seamless materials, creating a serene atmosphere. Natural light floods the space through a high window connecting the bathroom and kitchen, ensuring that artificial lighting is seldom required. A floating bench adds to the sense of relaxation, resembling a luxurious spa retreat, and enhances the overall soothing vibe of the apartment.
Thoughtful Design Philosophy
What sets this apartment apart is the intentional design philosophy that embraces a departure from minimalism. Rather than stripping spaces down to their bare essentials, the apartment showcases a rich tapestry of materials and atmospheres. This approach draws inspiration from traditional Greek homes, where small spaces exude a sense of density and warmth through diverse elements.
Through meticulous design, even a once-neglected storage area has transformed into a comfortable living space. This evolution not only provides housing for a growing family but also reinforces the importance of multi-generational living. The apartment stands as a testament to how thoughtful, creative design can breathe new life into urban spaces, allowing for the coexistence of family ties and personal independence.
In a world where urban living often means sacrificing comfort for functionality, this semi-basement apartment in Ilioupoli illustrates that with imagination and care, even the smallest spaces can blossom into something beautiful and meaningful.
- Project Name: Ilioupoli Apartment
- Designer: Point Supreme
- Source: Never Too Small
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