Described as “a throwback to the glory days of classic modernism”, this new Design Hotels property opened in April, on the foothills of the Acropolis, in Plaka.
Conceived by Stavros Papagiannis of Greek practice Stage Design Office, the AthensWas hotel was inspired by the classic modernism movement of the 1950s to 1970s, while occupying a former apartment building constructed in 2006.
Sporting 21 rooms, the boutique property juxtaposes furniture by Le Corbusier, Ettore Sottsass and Michael Graves, with locally sourced marble, walnut panelling and glass walls. Wifi is free throughout.
Custom lighting in the bedrooms is by industrial designer Konstantin Grcic, while walls are decorated with prints of sculptures from the National Archaeological Museum. Each room also comes with its own private terrace.
On the sixth floor is a rooftop eatery and bar with views of the old city. Here you can sample a signature cocktail made with local ouzo or mastic, or a Kopi Luwak coffee from the island of Sumatra in Indonesia.
Meanwhile, the ground level features the trendy Modern restaurant with black and white marble floor, minimalist hardwood tables, and 1950’s-style Luisa chairs by Italian designer Franco Albini (produced today by design firm Cassina).
A menu of traditional Greek food is served for breakfast, lunch and dinner.