Filothei Residence

In a volumetric approach while in contrast to its colorful context, a modern whitewashed residential volume makes its appearance in the area of Filothei, Athens. To create a home for a family of four, A&M undertook the design of this new residence in 2019. With 2 levels and a spacious basement, the building blends harmoniously in its urban surrounding embracing the modern architectural elements that the area has adopted.

With emphasis on the plot’s unique characteristics operating as a narrow green strip parallel to the city plan and to emphasize the green surroundings, a volumetric approach took place, creating a clean white cube that elegantly marks its presence. The cube highlights an imposing volume in the space that almost seems like it’s floating on the surface of the plot. As the front facade faces North, the building’s openings are minimized to protect the house from strong winds while allowing for more privacy on the front façade. These openings become an element to the house’s identity while the entrance door is highlighted.

Upon entering the interior, the visitor is invited to cross a narrow corridor leading to an open double height space showcasing a curved skylight that illuminates the heart of the dwelling. Around this atrium, all the functions of the house are located, while the back facade facing South is more open, counterbalancing the home’s introvert character, allowing the sunlight to wash the garden and pool area. The dynamics of the building are based on the experience of intense alternations and the element of surprise that the user experiences while walking through. Different qualities of space, the different height, the bright vs dark areas, and the contrast between the linear geometries and the organic forms.