Pentelis St Apartment Building

The diagonal axis is expressed as a linear structural and spatial element onto which a series of volumes are attached or projected. This move allows the building to open itself toward the square beyond the street frontage, extending visual connections deep into the site and ensuring that even the rear apartments benefit from openness and views.

The front volume, intentionally kept lower and scaled to three stories, echoes the domestic character of the pre-existing house on the site, maintaining a sense of continuity within the neighborhood fabric. In contrast, the taller rear volume rises to maximize light, ventilation, and long-range views.

As the building steps away from its boundaries, it creates a more generous open space at ground level. This landscaped area visually merges with the adjacent public square, softening the transition between private and public realms and enhancing the overall spatial experience.

The side elevations are carefully modulated through recesses, projections, and cantilevers, breaking down the linearity of the mass and giving the development the character of a composition of smaller, distinct volumes rather than a singular monolithic block.

These elements introduce diffused natural light into the interiors while creating luminous vertical voids—effectively internal atria—that connect the levels and enhance air circulation.

This strategy becomes particularly important given the building’s dense urban surroundings, where adjacent structures limit direct sunlight. By carving light into the core of the units, the design ensures spatial quality and environmental comfort beyond conventional perimeter-based solutions.

Smooth plaster finishes in light, neutral tones define the primary volumes, emphasizing clarity and mass. Contrasting textured surfaces and subtle color variations articulate secondary elements and recesses.

Metal railings and pergola structures introduce precision and lightness, complementing the solid massing.Glass block surfaces add depth and luminosity, acting as both façade elements and light diffusers.

Interior spaces continue this language of refinement and tactility, combining clean-lined cabinetry and integrated storage, large-format tiles and natural textures, accent walls with darker, layered materials for depth and contrast.

The result is an environment that feels both minimal and warm—controlled yet inviting.

The roof garden creates a “suspended landscape” that enhances the living experience of the upper units.

A lightweight metal pergola supports climbing vegetation, contributing to natural shading and passive cooling while reinforcing the architectural identity of the project.

This layered approach to open space—ground, vertical voids, and roof—improves environmental performance while enriching the daily experience of residents.