Kyr”Antonis”
Kyr’ Antonis’ kafeneio constitutes a spatial interpretation of the Greek collective experience.
The project accommodates two distinct yet interconnected uses: a grocery–kafeneio and a tsipouradiko–musical meze restaurant. The design approach was based on preserving the fundamental spatial principles that define these traditional typologies, drawing inspiration from vernacular references while translating them into two contemporary environments that retain the evocative character of the past.
The tsipouradiko space is morphologically more legible, and the intervention was deliberately restrained yet decisive in shaping its atmosphere. The generous ceiling height was preserved and, together with the large façade openings, recalls the spatial image of the traditional kafeneio. A continuous horizontal wooden batten runs along the perimeter of the space below the window level, acting as a datum line and introducing a shift in color derived from the palette historically associated with Greek kafeneia.
The bar was designed with a carved marble base and a wooden counter. Behind it, a custom wooden structure accommodates the functional requirements of the space. The tables consist of marble tops with classic metal bases, while the chairs are of the traditional Viennese type. On the wall adjoining the grocery area, a series of photographs by the photographer Giorgos Iliou has been installed, referencing the longstanding visual culture associated with Greek kafeneia. Lighting is provided by suspended fishing lamps.
The grocery area is defined by a long and narrow spatial configuration. In order to moderate the intensity of the entrance and introduce a more intimate scale, the ceiling in the front section was lowered through a composite construction of beams and wooden slats. These slats extend vertically along one side, forming the shelving system that organizes the display of grocery products.
Within this lowered ceiling zone, a corner marble counter–bench was integrated, illuminated by ceramic lighting fixtures designed by the ceramist Dimitra Tsourdini and complemented by mirror-works by the visual artist Maria Olga Vlachou.
In the higher section of the grocery space, a marble refrigerated counter completes the spatial composition.
The flooring throughout both areas is formed by large painted wooden planks typically used in construction scaffolding, reinforcing the raw and honest material character of the interior while unifying the two spaces.
PROJECT INFORMATION
DESCRIPTION
Architectural design of a mixed-use space: ouzeri and grocery store.
CATEGORY
Retail Stores – Restaurants
COMMISSION
Architectural Design, Interior Design
LOCATION
Livadi, Kythira, Greece
PROJECT AREA
145 sq.m.
DESIGN TEAM
Panagiota Kamperou
Varvara Kountzaki
STATUS
Completed
DESIGN / CONSTRUCTION PERIOD
2022 / 2023
PHOTOGRAPHY
Giorgos Iliou
SUPERVISION
Your Space Experience
CERAMIC LIGHTING FIXTURES
Dimitra Tsourdini
ARTWORKS – MIRRORS
Maria Olga Vlachou