JC Architects balance contrasts at new urban hotel in Metaxourgeio, Athens

Inspired by the ever-changing environment of the Metaxourgeio/Kerameikos area, the Newel hotel was designed by JC Architects taking cues from different architectural forms. The building emphasizes the idea of contradiction, with its façade separating the external skin and the internal heart of it, through multiple opposing techniques. The internal part is exposed to combed concrete and other morphological elements of Athenian architecture while the external face features a metal cladding system. The difference in the materiality of the ground floor compared to other floors adds a visual variety between the two levels and increases the layering effect. Throughout the complex, metal perforated panels cast dramatic shadows on the facades, framing the view. A constant and unobstructed flow both physical and visual is created between the interior and the surrounding space. The metal suspension beams of the metal cladding participate in the morphological impression of the building structure by outlining balconies and windows. In this way holes are marked in the facade, framing different parts of the urban fabric of Metaxourgeio. The interior of the building was completely re-designed from scratch. As the architects describe, “Taking inspiration from the city of Athens, we created a central “boulevard” and smaller side “streets”, leading to the rooms, ensuring privacy and sound isolation”. The idea of contrast characterizes the interiors too. “There is a constant dialogue between the imperfect and the polished. The marks and indents from the existing concrete of the structural elements coexist with fine materials such as wood, metal, mosaic, pastels, and earthy colors. Color becomes a dominant part of interior design. Inspired by Athenian architecture, the spaces interact with the urban neighborhood”, says the design team.