Maria Kardami

Apartment R

The ” Apartment R” by Maria Kardami Studio is situated in a post-war urban building, on a central Athenian location that marries neoclassical elegance and modernist simplicity. 

Our design team initiated a comprehensive redesign, restructuring the interior spaces to create a bespoke home for a collector of African art. With residences in art metropolises worldwide, the homeowner sought a space with an international, upscale feel, where every element is custom-made and the apartment itself functions discreetly as a gallery.

Central to the design is the apartment’s orientation and its relationship with views of an archaeological park and Mount Hymettus. The 180 m² floor plan is organized into two zones. The common areas, including living and dining spaces, kitchen, and reception areas, form one zone. The private areas, consisting of bedrooms and bathrooms, form the other. The existing layout was retained, with functional architectural interventions and additions made to suit the resident’s lifestyle.

The material palette plays a crucial role in achieving the desired aesthetic. Extensive use of Greek marble throughout the apartment provides a serene backdrop for the art collection. The specific marble, chosen for its quiet elegance, allows the artworks to take center stage. Wood is used both in detailed finishes and large surfaces, creating a dialogue of natural tones and contrasting darker hues. Slim window profiles ensure an unobstructed view of two landmark buildings, a neoclassical and a modernistic, also visually connected with the adjacent archaeological landscape. Light-colored fabrics in shades of white and beige, complemented by minimal dark details, enhance the tranquil atmosphere. Custom oak floors with bronze details feature chevron patterns tailored to each space, connected by bronze profiles. Marble patterns in the bathrooms are harmonized with the dimensions of each area.

Apart from selected Cassina design icons, the furnishings are entirely custom-designed to fit the dimensions and preferences of the homeowner, resting directly on the floor. Special constructions, such as custom marble showcases and unique supports using a magnet system, were designed to accommodate the extensive art collection. This system allows for flexible placement and height adjustments of artworks, with supports that remain invisible.

The interior approach is contemporary, with marble elements around door frames referencing the communal spaces of the building. Wooden interior doors echo the style of prestigious urban apartments from the post-war period, creating a cohesive architectural language.

With deep cultural resonance, The Apartment R provides an ideal, custom-made setting for both elegant living and showcasing an exceptional art collection.

Apartment R
Apartment R
Apartment R
Apartment R
Apartment R
Apartment R
Apartment R
Apartment R

About the Project

The ” Apartment R” by Maria Kardami Studio is situated in a post-war urban building, on a central Athenian location that marries neoclassical elegance and modernist simplicity. 

Our design team initiated a comprehensive redesign, restructuring the interior spaces to create a bespoke home for a collector of African art. With residences in art metropolises worldwide, the homeowner sought a space with an international, upscale feel, where every element is custom-made and the apartment itself functions discreetly as a gallery.

Central to the design is the apartment’s orientation and its relationship with views of an archaeological park and Mount Hymettus. The 180 m² floor plan is organized into two zones. The common areas, including living and dining spaces, kitchen, and reception areas, form one zone. The private areas, consisting of bedrooms and bathrooms, form the other. The existing layout was retained, with functional architectural interventions and additions made to suit the resident’s lifestyle.

The material palette plays a crucial role in achieving the desired aesthetic. Extensive use of Greek marble throughout the apartment provides a serene backdrop for the art collection. The specific marble, chosen for its quiet elegance, allows the artworks to take center stage. Wood is used both in detailed finishes and large surfaces, creating a dialogue of natural tones and contrasting darker hues. Slim window profiles ensure an unobstructed view of two landmark buildings, a neoclassical and a modernistic, also visually connected with the adjacent archaeological landscape. Light-colored fabrics in shades of white and beige, complemented by minimal dark details, enhance the tranquil atmosphere. Custom oak floors with bronze details feature chevron patterns tailored to each space, connected by bronze profiles. Marble patterns in the bathrooms are harmonized with the dimensions of each area.

Apart from selected Cassina design icons, the furnishings are entirely custom-designed to fit the dimensions and preferences of the homeowner, resting directly on the floor. Special constructions, such as custom marble showcases and unique supports using a magnet system, were designed to accommodate the extensive art collection. This system allows for flexible placement and height adjustments of artworks, with supports that remain invisible.

The interior approach is contemporary, with marble elements around door frames referencing the communal spaces of the building. Wooden interior doors echo the style of prestigious urban apartments from the post-war period, creating a cohesive architectural language.

With deep cultural resonance, The Apartment R provides an ideal, custom-made setting for both elegant living and showcasing an exceptional art collection.