Drawing inspiration from the thousand-year byzantine heritage of Thessaloniki, MonAsty takes its name from the second most important metropolis of the Byzantine empire that is long lost, yet remains faintly evident in the numerous Christian orthodox temples of that era still standing in the historic center of the city. The new Autograph Collection hotel, designed by Not a Number Architects, transcodes classic architectural style with regional features, austere materiality, and the subtle use of natural and artificial lighting to create a mystic atmosphere throughout the spaces. The main design aim of the 100-room hotel is to offer a monastic experience combined with the high-end services of a 5* hotel, making it a luxury refuge from the bustling city center.
The hotel site neighbors the only operating monastery inside the city center which was rebuilt after the great fire of 1917 on the remnants of an older byzantine one. As the architects describe, “The interior layout of the ground floor is organized on a stark symmetry of spaces with the bar taking center stage in the central axis that emulates the nave of early Byzantine temples. This gesture gets amplified by the grandiose wooden ceiling that extends over the entrance to the front and a secret garden to the back. Three majestic brass-coated chandeliers reminiscent of hanging candlesticks further accentuate the central axis inviting visitors to the bar as it becomes visible from across the street. The Byzantine weave pattern of the stone flooring runs from the covered plaza of the entrance to the lobby area unifying the exterior with the interior spaces.
The reception area stands out with the juxtaposition of a black marble desk on a floor-to-wall monochromatic brick surface, further complemented with warm wood elements such as gridded partitions and shelving creating an imposing yet welcoming atmosphere. Right on the opposite side visitors get a view of the hotel’s restaurant. Decked out in an array of simple and warm materials its design takes cues from the menu’s folklore and contemporary duality, creating a collage of traditional and historic references.
Murky neutral shades used in Byzantine iconography inform the interior’s color palette. At the same time, design elements that intensify the monastic references such as alcove-shaped seating banquettes and domed ceilings are carefully combined while materials that celebrate craftsmanship such as weathered leather, woven rattans, brushed wood, and smeared mortars create a rich tactile experience. Site-specific paintings by artist Fikos depict the story of Thessaloniki in the form of Byzantine murals, while sporadically dotted light pendants that float throughout the space, complete the reverent ambiance. In the secret garden, a mixture of greenery and elements of water further isolate the visitor from the bustling city, creating an atmosphere of contemplation and tranquility”.
