SAL

Reframing the 80s House

( description )

This project concerns the renovation study of a single-family house from the 1980s located in Panorama, Thessaloniki. The study builds upon the building’s external envelope, originally designed by the Nikiforidis–Cuomo office, which is characterized by a white modernist shell and metal shading elements on the balconies. Starting from the reading of the existing envelope, the main concept for the interior spaces was developed around the idea of an inner courtyard -a space that extends the experience of the outdoors and creates a natural living environment filled with abundant daylight. This idea is expressed through the use of a pavé floor made of cast concrete with small marble pieces, a surface that appears mainly at the transition points of the house -at entrances and exits- where the interior space comes into direct contact with the garden.

The main living spaces on the ground floor are organized as a continuous spatial sequence and are arranged around the pavé surface. Large openings strengthen the relationship with the garden and allow natural light to penetrate the interior, while artworks are organically integrated into the spatial composition.

The material palette of the house is based on a restrained yet expressive combination of materials—concrete, wood, metal, and marble—which, through their contrasts, form a balanced and timeless architectural language.

On the upper floor, the master bedroom includes two walk-in wardrobes and an open bathroom area, all arranged within a unified spatial layout. The opening of the washbasin area toward the balcony and, consequently, toward the garden, together with the repetition of the pavé flooring, reinforces the feeling of an interior courtyard and a way of living closely connected to nature.

The children’s rooms are organized through stepped platforms that incorporate storage, challenging the conventional room layout. Vibrant colors dominate both the bedrooms and the children’s bathroom, which offers a playful reference to life by the sea.

Finally, the basement is designed as a more private space for relaxation, including a wine cellar, a wine tasting and preparation counter, as well as a gym and wellness areas. These spaces support activities before and after the use of the outdoor swimming pool.