Architecture studio Kallos Turin has created a stunning poured concrete house in Athens, named Art House, that blends seamlessly with its leafy hillside surroundings in the suburb of Filothei. The four-storey dwelling was designed to house a vast art collection while adhering to local restrictions that limited the overall footprint and floor plan. The result is a dense volume that emerges from a concentrated garden, creating a powerful presence on the site.
Visitors approach the cube-like house at street level, entering through a curved concrete wall and winding path that leads to a striking bronze and brass perforated front door. Inside, the home is defined by a meandering cantilevered staircase that spans all four storeys, providing a dynamic contrast to the largely cubic facade. The architects intentionally avoided creating a rigid home, opting for a sinuous line of travel through the volume that impacts the shape of the concrete.
The top floor of Art House features the main living area and a stainless steel kitchen with floor-to-ceiling glazing that opens onto a garden patio. The second floor down is a gallery-style space dedicated to the owners‘ art collection, while the floor below houses the main suite, a guest room, and a home gym. In addition to the four storeys, the home boasts a rooftop swimming pool accessed via an external concrete staircase, offering sweeping views of Athens and a partial green roof.
Kallos Turin took various measures to respond to the harsh local climate, including positioning the home to benefit from natural sunshade and maximum sunlight exposure during the cooler months. Roof overhangs, blinds, and cross ventilation were incorporated to reduce heat gain and limit energy consumption, eliminating the need for air-conditioning despite high temperatures.
The interior palette of Art House features dark blues, camel, and black metal to allow the furniture to shine without overpowering the space. Pieces range from iconic designer chairs to a marble-finished bathroom, creating a neutral base that lets the art collection and furnishings take center stage. The result is a harmonious blend of architecture, art, and design that showcases the beauty of concrete in a modern and dynamic way.
Overall, Art House by Kallos Turin is a testament to innovative design that respects its natural surroundings while pushing the boundaries of traditional architecture. With its striking facade, meandering staircase, and thoughtful interior design, this concrete house in Athens stands as a unique and inspiring example of contemporary residential architecture.