K60, an 88 m2 apartment in Athens, was transformed by architect Ioanna Vlachaki to honor its post-war origins while embracing modern functionality. The design revolves around the original stairwell, creating a circular flow in the living spaces. Emphasizing natural light, the south-facing facade illuminates the living areas while the more private spaces face the quieter north side. The studio retained the apartment’s historical elements like mosaic floors, marble countertops and hardwood while integrating custom, modernist-inspired furniture and fixtures. The design pays homage to the client’s grandfather, Marc Verkest (Konstrukto), a pioneering figure in Belgian modern architecture.
The kitchen, with its boat-inspired details and a multifunctional island, serves as the hub, connecting seamlessly to the dining and living areas, each adorned with carefully selected colors and design elements. The bespoke island is inspired by Eileen Gray’s design ethos. The marks on the floor below the island both link and divide the kitchen and dining area. They symbolize the wall that once stood there, using a Dionysos marble feature to unify the mosaic and wood flooring. The dining area, featuring a custom lacquered wood table, exudes a relaxed, airy vibe supported by a color scheme inspired by modern hues and the neighborhood’s characteristic blues and reds. The living room, bathed in natural light, combines metallic elements with comfortable fabrics, anchored by a striking blue mural. The study, multifunctional as an office and art studio, echoes the apartment’s circular design motif.
The private area of the apartment, situated at the helix’s end, is accessed through a bright space serving as a passage both back to the kitchen and to the more intimate sections. The bedroom is a serene space filled with natural light. The closet echoes the curved design seen in the study, creating a nice environment. In the bathroom, a new mosaic floor complements a serene color scheme, with custom metallic handles and fixtures paying tribute to the post-war era, merging history with contemporary design.
