Architect Eleftheria Pyroudi designs Theorist library café in central Rethymnon, Crete

Carrying a dual character, the Theorist is designed revolving around two main axes, the restaurant/café, and the library. The staircase that defines the vertical circulation separates the buffet from the hall on the lower level. At the same time, in its extension, a 5.10m high and 6.00m long library creates an audiovisual “filter” in the upper hall without cutting it off and giving the feeling of a separate room. Thus was born the idea of the (lending) library with the ability to host over 1,000 books. It is characterized by the alternate dividing panels with 15 degrees of rotation, which help to partially reflect the sound and the light in the areas of the hall. The design aims to create a sense of togetherness, communication, and community spirit, while timelessness is achieved in terms of materials too. A neutral canvas is created by choosing materials such as lime on the now visible masonry, concrete on the bare columns of the structure, and a light-colored industrial floor. The custom furniture, and the staircase – library, made of pine wood and white metal complete the design. Additional details such as electrical appliances with inox cable channels and lighting with hanging and floor lamps add a bright element to the industrial design. The books and plants of the library break the neutrality of the canvas and complete a default, smooth architectural surface.