PROJECT DETAILS

Study: 1993
Construction: 1993
Store Space: 220 sq.m.


Publications

Athens, A guide to recent architecture, 1998, Konemann

 

PROJECT CREDITS

Architects: Nikos Lykoudis, Ismene
Papaspiliopoulou
Sculptures: Lida Papakonstantinou
Photos: Nikos Lykoudis

PROJECT DESCRIPTION 

VELVET CAFE

FOKIONOS NEGRI, KIPSELI, ATHENS

Velvet Cafe is on a busy pedestrian street with a large number of other cafés and bars. It unfolds over three levels —basement, which accommodates auxiliary spaces, offices and toilets; the ground floor, which has a seating area, bar and DJ area; and the first level, that provides extra seating. The aim was to create a vibrant environment that would attract the younger generation by standing out from the rest of the cafés in the area. The composition is based on contrasting materials and colors. Thus cold materials were used for the floors (tiles, grey granite and rusty-brown marble), the equipment (stainless steel) and various elements including the railings (metal and stainless steel). As a contrast, warm colors and materials were used for the furniture (wooden chairs and leather sofas), the bar, the shelves and the DJ area. A journey through the space is achieved by means of a freestanding metal staircase that leads from the double-volume entrance hall through a wooden link to the wooden first-floor extension. The journey is made more pleasant by different colored lighting.