Divercity Architects breathe new life into a modernist Athens landmark

One of Athens’ key modernist landmarks, the ‘Doxiadis Building’ (as it is known to locals) was created in the late 1950s by architect Constantinos Doxiadis and used as his headquarters

Sitting at the foot of Lycabettus, the building saw the architect’s office and design school flourish, but it slowly fell into disrepair after his death in 1975.

Enter Christos Joannou and Miltos Kambouridis, of local developer Cyclamino, who bought the building in 2007 with the aim to breathe new life into its iconic shell. The team commissioned London and Athens-based practice Divercity Architects to lead the redesign, transforming the building into OneAthens, the city's first fully serviced residential development.

The refreshed complex includes 26 units and features a roof garden with views of the Acropolis and Lycabettus, a wellness centre with a fully equipped gym, a children's playroom, a club and film room, and a business suite.

 

The ‘Doxiadis Building’ (as it is known to locals) was created in the late 1950s by architect Constantinos Doxiadis and used as his headquarters.

 

Surrounded by greenery, the building provides a serene oasis within the city's densely populated centre

 

The original design was centred around Doxiadis' vision of an idealised metropolis, or entopia, which would provide for small communities within big cities. In line with these values, the ground floor has been kept open for communal spaces and amenities

 

Divercity Architects updated the original modular grid design by treating the facade much like a canvas. Three different materials distinguish the different internal conditions inside. Private areas are reflected externally by opaque marble panels, public areas by glass (to maximise views), while inbetween spaces are clad in translucent concrete.

 

The marble atrium houses a calming water feature, and is designed to ease the transition between the energy of the city and the peace of the residences