Part of the central district of Athens, Monastiraki serves as a transitional zone between the picturesque, traditional neighbourhood of Plaka, the mythological ruins of the ancient Agora, and the bustling heart of the modern city. The area is characterised by a striking mix of architectural styles, where ancient ruins and Byzantine churches stand side by side with Ottoman-era structures, neoclassical buildings and multi-storey buildings dating mostly from the early to mid-20th century. Monastiraki’s lively market and maze of narrow streets bridge the gap between old and new, offering a unique blend of history and urban life.
Amidst this eclectic mix of influences, in a touristy alleyway teeming with souvenir shops, Local Local is restoring a three-storey inter-war building to become a contemporary art gallery. The building, formerly used as a shop, is under the same ownership as the neighbouring Melas Martinos gallery, a project also undertaken by our studio. Two new exhibition spaces will be created on the ground and first floors of the building, while the roof terrace will be transformed into an urban garden with views of the Acropolis. A small room on the top floor will become an ancillary space with a kitchenette and bathroom.
This intervention, which highlights the unique character of the building, combines a dual process of restoration and design. The all-white interiors will enhance the natural light entering through the relatively small windows, while the new details will echo traditional elements of 18th and 19th century Athenian architecture, such as handcrafted wrought iron and wooden balustrades, latticed wooden panels and terrazzo floors. The new space, currently under construction, will show the same sensitivity to its context as the adjacent renovated gallery, taking into account existing materials inside and outside the building. The two buildings will share a similar design language, but will be able to function independently.