10AM Lofts started 5 years ago when founder, Eva Papadaki, came across a six-storey, 1970s industrial building in Gazi area, Athens. Four loft spaces were designed and introduced to the audiences as 10AM Lofts and function since then as photography studios, film locations, event spaces, and creative offices.
The idea to turn the building into a home for all creatives emerged. The next step was to transform the lower and basement floors and the two upper floors. Studio Andrew Trotter, Gavalas Ioannidou Architecture studio and founder Eva Papadaki working together as a team have transformed what now is a 500sqm venue, functioning as a distinctive creative hub, and a penthouse into a heaven of peace and tranquility.
10AM venue – events space
“We gutted the lower two floors of the building and opened up the central patio to connect the basement to the ground floor by means of a corten steel sculptural staircase. All the original concrete was left raw, and all new elements keep the industrial feel, softened by curtains, sofas and antique furniture. A new black concrete floor was laid, new windows were placed, and glass bricks were added to the facade. While the lower floor is mainly white and is flooded with light, in contrast, the basement is dark, with the only natural light seeping in through the cracks left in the ceiling, and the central patio, giving a dark, mysterious space. The space is multifunctional and easily divided. The space can be used as a whole, or as smaller individual spaces. The entry space, bright and white, with a concrete staircase that leads to a mezzanine office. The back space has a 7 meter kitchen for communal meals. Part of the kitchen is mobile, and can be placed in front of the other part for show cooking. The lower space holds an event room, a second kitchen and the bathrooms.”
10AM Penthouse
“After the two upper floors were gutted, we covered the walls and ceiling with lime plaster and lime paint (Mykonos by Bauwerk Colour) to give a feeling of rough luxury. In the heart of busy Athens, the space is cool and calm. The lower floor holds a large living, dining, kitchen (sofa and armchair by byBlasco, alabaster lamp by Jordi Veciana, lighting by Contain, Charlotte Perriand chairs, artisan kitchen with Vola taps) with a study with a daybed/sofa, that doubles as a second bedroom. Also on the floor is the large bathroom that has a full wall of windows that completely open, giving an amazing experience of taking a bath or shower with views of the Acropolis. On the upper floor is the main bedroom and bathroom, with huge windows looking over Athens. Heavy linen curtains, linen bedding and vintage furniture soften the edges.”
