In a city where tradition often defines the landscape, OKUPA emerges as a bold reinterpretation of Athenian hospitality, designed for today’s modern, multicultural traveller. Founded by Georges Batrouni and Hrag Darakjian and located just outside the bustling Psyri district, OKUPA introduces itself as an urban oasis that nurtures creativity, fosters cross-cultural dialogue and reimagines shared spaces. The concept of OKUPA, inspired by the Spanish word ocupar (to occupy), goes far beyond the typical hotel experience. Every inch of this 2,150-square-meter space is a reinvention—an intentional blend of local craftsmanship and global influence aimed at bridging borders.
“From its welcoming co-working spaces to its seasonal rooftop pool, OKUPA caters to the cosmopolitan wanderer, the one who seeks not just a bed for the night, but an immersive cultural experience.”
A key principle of OKUPA is the seamless interaction between locals and travellers. The design of the space fosters an open exchange, whether it’s over a cup of coffee in the garden, a craft workshop in the courtyard, or a lively evening of cocktails and vinyl tunes in the bar. The hotel’s eclectic offerings extend to its all-day restaurant, where laid-back brunch vibes meet late-night energy, offering everything from melt-in-your-mouth beef cheek croquettes to signature cocktails crafted from artisanal ingredients. OKUPA’s commitment to community extends through every corner of the space. Interiors by Nohad Boueiz and Andrea Zoumboulis feature mid-century icons like Van De Rohe and Marcel Breuer, while walls are adorned with local art from Seikon. The design is a nod to Athens’ rich cultural past while embracing the city’s dynamic present. Guests can take refuge in rooms that boast Acropolis and Lycabettus views or retreat to the library for some quiet time. The rooms, designed with comfort and style in mind, feature premium bedding, Roberts radio speakers, and even projectors in some spaces for added convenience. Some rooms even offer private balconies for guests who prefer to soak in the Athens skyline.
With 32 rooms, a vibrant garden, and year-round communal spaces, OKUPA is as much about the experience as it is about the space itself. Whether you’re sipping natural wines at the bar, engaging in offbeat movement classes, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, OKUPA is a space for those who believe that travel is not just about destinations, but the people you meet along the way.
