THE TRANSPARENT APARTMENT by URBAN SOUL PROJECT; Greece

This apartment is located on a listed building dated from the 30’s in downtown Thessaloniki. The unique typology of its layout allows for a circulation around its core, through all spaces and a sheltered balcony at the back.

All spaces are open to the front view, unified in a square large room, where living and dining room and master bedroom are consecutive. The master WC is located centrally and open through a glass curved wall to the front view and light. A Greek green marble is the surface on which seats the sink, faucet, it enters the shower and becomes the floor.

Materials used are the mixed green, black and light green terrazzo tile, the green marble also found in the terrazzo tile, oak wood floors, white woven reed incorporated in lacquer doors and closets. Brass details in doorknobs, light fixtures and details on the floor.

What makes this project one-of-a-kind?

What makes this apartment different is the use of large glass panes, which have replaced main wall elements of the plan. This means spaces can be unified and separated at the same time, while maintaining visual continuity between them.

About the authors

Based in Thessaloniki, Athens and London, Urban Soul Project is one of the biggest architectural practices in Greece.

USP is a multi-awarded architecture firm and design studio offering services ranging from architecture, interior design, planning applications and municipal approvals for hospitality, offices, commercial and residential projects in Greece and abroad. With a wide spectrum of more than 35 skilled professionals, USP is an experienced firm in complex planning permissions that has handled numerous renowned projects, especially in listed buildings around Greece. The studio was recently commissioned with LEED and WELL Certified projects.

In 2017, the firm was awarded with both the German Design Award and the A’ Design Silver Award for Colors Urban Hotel, was the winner for a private residence in London for the International Hotel and Property Awards, and finally was an honoree at the Best of the Year Interior Design Magazine Awards in New York City for Looney Bean bar & restaurant, located in Thessaloniki.

Text provided by the authors of the project.