Athens, Greece – A neoclassical townhouse in the historic Plaka neighborhood of Athens has undergone a “contemporary and playful” renovation by local architecture studio Local Local. The project, led by architect Sofia Xanthakou, breathes new life into the 19th-century building, harmoniously blending its rich heritage with modern design sensibilities.
Respecting History, Embracing Modernity
The townhouse, located on a narrow alleyway, presented a unique challenge due to Athens’ conservation laws, which restricted structural interventions. Xanthakou’s approach focused on respecting the building’s historic character while introducing modern elements that enhance liveability and invite light and warmth into the home.
“With a layered heritage and proximity to the Acropolis, we worked to reconnect the home to its context through a lighter, more open interior expression,” explained Xanthakou. This philosophy guided the removal of glossy marble and heavy wood finishes from previous 1990s renovations, paving the way for a fresh, monochromatic palette.
A Lighter, Brighter Interior
The refurbished interior predominantly features an almost entirely white, monochromatic palette. This choice was strategic, aiming to maximize natural light within spaces characterized by thick stone walls and limited window openings. Historic features, such as wrought-iron railings and wooden paneled doors with marble jambs, were meticulously preserved and repainted to ensure a cohesive aesthetic.
Flooring plays a crucial role in adding character to the spaces. A bold red terrazzo introduces warmth and contrast to the ground-floor living room, family room, and office. In contrast, the kitchen and bathrooms feature a soft-grey terrazzo, reflecting light in these more compact areas. Upstairs, light-grey oak flooring in the bedrooms provides a contemporary feel.
Playful Accents and Bespoke Craftsmanship
The renovation introduces vibrant, playful accents that break up the predominantly white interior. A reconstructed fireplace in the main living area, crafted from green marble sourced from the island of Tinos, serves as a striking focal point. The kitchen, given a modern makeover, is adorned with colorful furniture and bespoke joinery, including a custom-designed green dining table and bold red dining chairs.
Local Local collaborated with local artisans to create several bespoke items, such as bookshelves, radiator covers, and skirting boards. These elements subtly reference classical forms while fulfilling the functional requirements of modern living. “These contemporary and playful gestures invite light, warmth and everyday family life back into the home,” noted Xanthakou.
Outdoor Oasis and Acropolis Views
Beyond the interior, the townhouse boasts a tranquil stone-paved courtyard that has been meticulously restored. Overgrown trees were pruned, and existing walls were repaired, creating a serene outdoor oasis. Rooftop terraces on the opposite side of the house offer breathtaking views across the rooftops of Athens, culminating in a vista of the iconic Acropolis.
Sofia Xanthakou, who founded Local Local after her studies at the Pratt Institute School of Architecture and Harvard University, emphasizes a contextually sensitive approach to design. Her studio actively reinterprets a site’s nuances to create experiences that are deeply rooted in their surroundings, as exemplified by this thoughtful renovation.
The project stands as a testament to how historic structures can be respectfully modernized, offering a vibrant and functional living space without sacrificing their intrinsic charm and connection to the city’s rich past. The blend of minimalist interiors with bursts of color and traditional craftsmanship creates a home that is both a sanctuary and a celebration of Athenian heritage.
Photography by Lorenzo Zandri.
