Doors of Kypseli is a love letter to the Athenian mid-century design

Doors of Kypseli by Eleanor Lines, published by Hyper Hypo, is a visual archive and homage to the overlooked architectural treasures of Athens. The book showcases 100 intricate wrought iron door designs from Kypseli, a central neighborhood known for its rich urban character. Spanning designs from the 1930s to the 1960s, these doors reflect influences from Art Deco, Bauhaus, and modernist movements. Eleanor Lines spent countless hours walking the streets of Kypseli, capturing the unique entrances of its homes and buildings. Using her photos, she carefully restored and transformed each design into striking blue illustrations—reimagining details like missing handles and rusted bars to highlight their original craftsmanship. The result is a collection that feels timeless yet deeply rooted in Athens’ past. The book also features an essay by cultural writer Nikos Vatopoulos, offering insights into the social and historical context of these designs. As gentrification reshapes Kypseli, many of these architectural details are disappearing. Doors of Kypseli not only preserves their memory but also inspires appreciation for their artistry and importance.