Green Path Renovation

The Athenian suburb of Glyfada with one of its Seventies buildings was setting for the Green Path Project, where architects transformed a 97m2 neglected, first-floor residential space into a contemporary Law office. A thorough contextual, materiality and color research preceded the conversion, resulting in a functional and inspiring workplace environment.
Inspiration for embracing biophilic approach in this makeover came from the experience of the afternoon natural light penetrating a lush wisteria plant and its mesmerizing shadows on the dilapidated floor. Hence, the conversion of the air shaft and front terrace abandoned areas into green oases that envelop work spaces took place, along with improving conditions of natural light together with ventilation and applying materials that echo nature. The creation of calming and productive surroundings contributed thereby to an overall welfare in the workplace.
Clearing the existing walls enabled the establishment of the new layout: a midnight-blue color reception area that contrasts with a newly created lush garden and hides black kitchen behind the folding doors; three working spaces for law practitioners flooded in natural light with greenery vistas; communal spaces of conference area and a bathroom, as well as walnut veneer and transparent glass double-sided functional divisions that encourage the feeling of continuous space.
Architect designed all built-in equipment, which was produced by local carpenters in walnut and brushed oak veneer, bearing in mind environment and local benefits. Furthermore, greenery pots were handmade on the site by metal workers. Glossy epoxy floor, created in situ, distinguishes 0,9m wide by 20m long olive leaf color path that runs through the whole office, unifying indoor and outdoor, while enabling the feeling of a larger space thanks to the reflections.
Enthusiastic collaboration between the Architect, Client and Craftsmen made the main challenge easy to conquer and transform a compact residential space into an office space that fulfills functional and technical demands yet maintains human character of the natural light and greenery enriched workspace.