The Modernist Athens: A Journey Through Time and Design
Discover The Modernist Athens, designed by FORM related in 2020, nestled in the former Canadian Embassy, Greece. This hotel embodies mid-century detailing with minimalist Danish design, offering a unique hospitality experience. With its refined elegance and luxury rooms, it tells the building’s rich history while ensuring guests’ comfort and relaxation.
About The Modernist Athens
A New Chapter in Athenian Hospitality
In the heart of Athens, the once Canadian Embassy now stands as The Modernist Athens, a testament to refined luxury and timeless design. FORM related unveiled this architectural gem in 2020, harmoniously blending mid-century and minimalist Danish aesthetics. The building, a representative of the ’50s Athenian apartment architecture, combines strict geometric lines with enriched new elements to create an elegant, comfortable environment for its guests.
Design Meets Comfort
Spanning across a basement, ground floor, six typical floors, and a lush roof garden, The Modernist Athens is divided into spaces that each tell a part of the building’s storied past while connecting the outdoor environment with the indoor luxury. The hotel features 38 luxury rooms, categorized from S to L sizes, and three XL rooms on the top floor, each with a private patio and Jacuzzi. The design philosophy was simple: create a clean atmosphere using natural materials like wood, bronze, marble, and leather—elements characteristic of the construction era.
Unique Spatial Arrangements
Given the building’s dense structure and limited square footage, FORM related aimed to maximize the use of space through clever arrangements, ensuring operational functionality and distinct room types. This was achieved by incorporating recesses and ledges that serve various purposes, from hosting open closets to providing spaces for desks and minibars. Such thoughtful design elements underline the efficiency of space utilization, catering to every guest’s need.
Preserving the Past, Embracing the Future
While the façade maintains its original typology, painted in dark shades to set the expectation of contrast within, the interior bridges the past and present. Classic elements from the original era are the linkage for a design that transitions smoothly to modern times, highlighted by masterfully chosen colors and materials. The organized public spaces within the hotel encourage easy movement and interaction, enriching the in-room experience with practical, yet luxurious details.
Sustainability at Its Core
Sustainability plays a pivotal role in the design of The Modernist Athens. The choice of long-lasting natural materials, innovative lighting solutions, and water management systems reflect a commitment to environmental stewardship. This approach extends to room amenities and services, integrating sustainability into the luxury hospitality experience.
The Modernist Athens is more than just a hotel; it’s a narrative of architectural evolution, luxury, and sustainability, offering guests a distinct and immersive stay that reflects the finest aspects of Athenian history and modern design.
Photography by Ioanna Roufopoulou
- by Matt Watts
