Client: Four Seasons

Overview

Ideally positioned on the Astir peninsula, Astir Palace Hotel Athens draws on the relaxed beauty of natural surroundings, and the energy and aesthetic sophistication of nearby Athens as a world-class destination. Materials, finishes, color palette, and lighting are informed and inspired by the crown jewel of the Athenian coast line. With this strong reference to place, interiors reach beyond to the exterior, wrapping the property in design elements which speak to the surrounding environment in a chic, eclectic tone. Astir Palace Hotel Athens comprises two luxury buildings, Arion and Nafsika, each characterized by a distinct approach to this shared inspiration.

Goals

Located on the Astir peninsula in Greece, the birthplace of classical architecture, Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel offered us the unique opportunity to reference the historic origins of sculpted marble—from that very location—with a modern interpretation. Fluted slabs are captured by blackened nickel metal and lit at the floor and ceiling. The individual slabs are very thin. This screen detail, a modern, reimagined marble wall, is in the foreground of an alcove, with painting of a classical Greek bust in the background, creating a dialogue between the past, the present, and the future. This is representative of what marble has been, is, and can be—a story about this material through time. We feel like we could write a book on just this subject.

Process

One of the keys to our design philosophy is honesty of materiality. We tend to be very selective of materials that exhibit this honesty and aim to use them with integrity, highlighting their innate qualities and constructing them to best suit their nature. Marble conveys its materiality stronger than any other material we work with.

Additional Information

Much more than a luxury hotel, the reinvigorated Arion will once more become a magnet for guests and locals seeking a tranquil experience that indulges the senses. The design centers on casual luxury and timeless sophistication, with a palette of blues inspired by the sea and the light greys of sun-bleached driftwood. Nestled into the hillside, close to the water, and featuring an eye-catching double-height lobby bar, Nafsika provides a dynamic atmosphere that appeals to couples as well as families.