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The ” Apartment R” by Maria Kardami Studio is situated in a post-war urban building, on a central Athenian location that marries neoclassical elegance and modernist simplicity. 

Our design team initiated a comprehensive redesign, restructuring the interior spaces to create a bespoke home for a collector of African art. With residences in art metropolises worldwide, the homeowner sought a space with an international, upscale feel, where every element is custom-made and the apartment itself functions discreetly as a gallery.

Central to the design is the apartment’s orientation and its relationship with views of an archaeological park and Mount Hymettus. The 180 m² floor plan is organized into two zones. The common areas, including living and dining spaces, kitchen, and reception areas, form one zone. The private areas, consisting of bedrooms and bathrooms, form the other. The existing layout was retained, with functional architectural interventions and additions made to suit the resident’s lifestyle.

The material palette plays a crucial role in achieving the desired aesthetic. Extensive use of Greek marble throughout the apartment provides a serene backdrop for the art collection. The specific marble, chosen for its quiet elegance, allows the artworks to take center stage. Wood is used both in detailed finishes and large surfaces, creating a dialogue of natural tones and contrasting darker hues. Slim window profiles ensure an unobstructed view of two landmark buildings, a neoclassical and a modernistic, also visually connected with the adjacent archaeological landscape. Light-colored fabrics in shades of white and beige, complemented by minimal dark details, enhance the tranquil atmosphere. Custom oak floors with bronze details feature chevron patterns tailored to each space, connected by bronze profiles. Marble patterns in the bathrooms are harmonized with the dimensions of each area.

Apart from selected Cassina design icons, the furnishings are entirely custom-designed to fit the dimensions and preferences of the homeowner, resting directly on the floor. Special constructions, such as custom marble showcases and unique supports using a magnet system, were designed to accommodate the extensive art collection. This system allows for flexible placement and height adjustments of artworks, with supports that remain invisible.

The interior approach is contemporary, with marble elements around door frames referencing the communal spaces of the building. Wooden interior doors echo the style of prestigious urban apartments from the post-war period, creating a cohesive architectural language.

With deep cultural resonance, The Apartment R provides an ideal, custom-made setting for both elegant living and showcasing an exceptional art collection.

Maria Kardami Design Studio undertook the transformation of two distinct apartments into a harmonious and luxurious living space on the esteemed Irodou Attikou street in Athens. Nestled next to the Presidential Mansion and boasting a captivating view of the national garden, this exceptional residence epitomizes comfort and modern opulence.

The expansive layout encompasses two living rooms, a master bedroom with a spacious wardrobe, two junior bedrooms, a guest room, an exquisite dining room, and a modern kitchen. All spaces seamlessly merge to embrace the breathtaking views of the National Garden adjacent to the Greek Parliament. 

The interiors exude peace and perfection, marrying timeless chic design with modern elegance. Bathed in natural Athenian light from expansive west-facing windows, the rooms offer panoramic views of the Athenian skyline and a portion of the Acropolis hill. 

Every inch of the apartment has been meticulously designed, adorned with rare works of art, and features a floor-to-ceiling palette of royal ice-white hues, creating an ambiance of pure bliss and mindfulness. Details such as bronze power switches, intricate molding, and state-of-the-art wall lights, such as Tassel by Studio Apparatus, strike a delicate balance between contemporary design and classical elements, creating a symphony of sophistication throughout the space. 

Natural pale, sand-colored wood floors complement the off-white-painted walls, contrasting with breathtaking black marble flooring. As guests enter the hall, they encounter a unique blend of tranquility and design, with each piece of furniture serving as an ode to the handmade art of upholstery and uniqueness.

In both living rooms, identical Piaf sofas by Baxter Italia in a light blue color create a stylish and inviting atmosphere, along with two bespoke coffee tables designed by Maria Kardami. There are three Casina Utrecht armchairs—two in the living room with the fireplace and one in the living room with the Bang & Olufsen television, placed by the large window. 

The dining room features a pristine marbled table by Agape, surrounded by Platner chairs from the renowned company Knoll, adding a touch of sophistication to the space. It is visually enriched with the Studio Apparatus Cloud ceiling light, featuring featherweight spheres suspended from brass chains and mouth-blown, frosted glass that refracts a central light source. Both living rooms and the dining area seamlessly blend, fostering the flow of conversation between the different areas.

 A minimal yet gracious marble fireplace on one side and a wall-to-ceiling window on the other create a captivating atmosphere, with the apartment’s layout maximizing natural light throughout the day. 

The kitchen, designed to be the heart of the new layout, is located next to the dining room and the TV-living room, separated by beautiful glass panels that function both as divisions and unions for the apartment. A balanced combination of Arabescato marble and oak wood creates a beautiful and minimal yet warm environment. State-of-the-art appliances from Gaggenau were used to elevate functionality. In the same area, a wet bar was designed to cover the needs of the nearby dining room.

The master bathroom and other rooms’ bathrooms are carefully designed to showcase rare elegance, featuring clean design, luxurious elements such as marble in black and white shades, bronze details, and spacious walk-in closets. 

Maria Kardami Design Studio, fueled by a pure passion for transformation, has created a marvelous home ready to host the daily lives of the fortunate residents who now call it their own

AD Project Presentation

At Maria Kardami Design Studio, we specialize in creating exquisite interior spaces that seamlessly blend timeless elegance with contemporary sophistication. Today, we are thrilled to present to you our new project: The AD Project, an interior design oasis of timeless style that breathes new life into a lavish neoclassical house situated in the Northern Suburbs of Athens, Greece.

The house carries a long history as it hosted the Royal Family of The House of Schwarzenberg. Given the fact that originally it was the residence of a prominent German and Czech aristocratic family, we stepped into this project with deep respect as it holds a rich historical legacy. As members of the German and Czech nobility, the Schwarzenbergs have played a significant role in European history, proudly bearing the rank of Princes of the Holy Roman Empire. With roots tracing back to the Lords of Seinsheim during the Middle Ages, this family stands as a testament to the high nobility of their lineage.

Today this extraordinary property is now set to be transformed into a modern masterpiece that pays homage to its illustrious past. Combining our expertise in interior design with the rich heritage of the royal family, we aim to create a living space that is both opulent and functional, celebrating the grandeur of neoclassical architecture.

Our approach to this interior design project is centered around meticulous attention to detail and a carefully curated selection of luxurious materials. In true neoclassical fashion, we intend to utilize sumptuous marble to elevate the space, infusing it with an air of timeless elegance. The chevron wood floor, known for its intricate patterns and natural warmth, will lend a touch of sophistication to every room.

Furniture and works of art will be handpicked to complement the neoclassical aesthetic, ensuring that each piece is a statement of refined taste. Every corner of this magnificent property will be thoughtfully adorned, with one-of-a-kind designer statement pieces of furniture and art objects, such as APPARATUS, PIERRE JEANNERET, CHRISTOPHE DELCOURT, UTRECHT BY GERRIT THOMAS RIETVELD, MK STUDIO, RH, KNOLL, DOHENY BY ADAM HUNTER and many others. We strongly believe that all details are responsible for capturing the essence of an aristocratic heritage while embracing the comforts of contemporary living for a modern family.

Spanning an impressive 900 square meters across three floors, this high-end detached house is a sanctuary of unparalleled luxury. On the ground floor, a playroom and a living room invite relaxation and entertainment, while an en-suite guest room ensures the utmost comfort for visitors. A wine bar cellar, laundry facilities, and auxiliary spaces such as the garage and service rooms cater to the practical needs of modern living.

Ascending to the first floor, one encounters an office space that seamlessly combines functionality with timeless elegance. A living room and a TV room provide ample spaces for relaxation and entertainment, while a dining room and a wet bar set the stage for unforgettable social gatherings. The kitchen, designed with both efficiency and aesthetics in mind, effortlessly caters to the demands of culinary excellence. An everyday lounge, also known as the Breakfast area, offers a cozy haven for morning gatherings, while terraces beckon residents to enjoy the surrounding beauty.

The second floor of this neoclassical abode is devoted to unparalleled opulence and comfort. An en-suite master bedroom awaits its occupants, providing a private sanctuary that exudes elegance and tranquility. A master dressing room, meticulously designed to accommodate the most discerning of tastes, indulges residents with its exquisite craftsmanship. Three en-suite junior bedrooms offer an enchanting retreat for family members or guests, while a terrace provides a serene outdoor space for contemplation and relaxation.

Outside, the neoclassical beauty of the AD Project extends beyond the house itself, with carefully designed outdoor spaces that rival the grandeur of the interior. Nestled within the enchanting garden, a sparkling swimming pool awaits, inviting residents to indulge in refreshing dips while basking in the Mediterranean sun. Adjacent to the pool, a pavilion stands as a serene retreat, offering respite from the warmth of the day and a picturesque setting for relaxation and contemplation.

A charming pergola graces the outdoor area, providing a shaded oasis where one can unwind amidst nature’s embrace. Adding to the allure of the landscape, a well stands as a captivating centerpiece, reminding us of the timeless charm and history of this remarkable property. Whether hosting elegant gatherings or seeking solace in the beauty of nature, the outdoor spaces of the AD Project harmoniously blend sophistication with the tranquility of the surrounding environment.

At Maria Kardami Design Studio, we are honored to be entrusted with such a remarkable project. Our vision is to breathe new life into this neoclassical house, allowing its historic grandeur to shine through while embracing contemporary living. Through our careful selection of luxurious and eco-friendly materials, meticulous attention to detail, and thoughtfully curated furnishings and artworks, we aim to create an interior space that exceeds expectations and reflects the remarkable heritage of the royal years.

We look forward to stepping on this journey of transforming the AD Project into a haven of neoclassical opulence, where past and present harmoniously coexist. Stay tuned as we unveil the breathtaking beauty that will emerge from this collaboration between Maria Kardami Design Studio and the new owners of this Historical House.

Maria Kardami Design Studio has designed the interior of a spacious family villa in the Pyramid Hills Compound, the luxury residential development set on the Giza Plateau close to the amenities of Cairo, Egypt.

Giza Pyramids View

The villa’s orientation provides spectacular main views of the Giza Pyramids. The main living areas surround an extensive terrace on three sides; the fourth side of the property is planted with palms and an area of rock garden with native vegetation. A long swimming pool with an adjacent shallow pool is flanked by a latticed wooden pergola with bar area, backed by more tall palms.

Ground Floor

On the ground floor, the large main living room and adjoining smaller living room with bar and fireplace open onto the terrace and each other. They are floored in dark brown oak strips laid in a chevron pattern which unifies the two spaces. Walls and custom-designed floor-to-ceiling curtains are of a warm beige colour. Soft furnishings in organic shapes by Baxter are upholstered in shades of sage-green and grey, picking up the tones of the Travertino which forms the top of the bar. Lighting fixtures here, as throughout the rest of the house, are elegantly minimalist, adapted to the prevailing aesthetic and for the most part designed by MK Design Studio in bronze or gold coloured metal.

Travertino also forms one wall and the marble dining table of the adjacent dining room, which is also floored in dark brown oak, as well as the floor, counter-top and island in the large, simply massed kitchen, and the floor of the attached outdoor kitchen lounge. The kitchen cabinets are dark wood and bronze, continuing the ground-floor colour scheme.

First Floor

The dark oak floor continues through into the first floor powder room, where the walls and custom-designed sink are of Onyx marble with gold fixtures. The toilet area is entirely clad in Onyx marble, and both rooms feature recessed lighting along the edges of walls and ceiling, creating an airy quality to what are all too often visually enclosed spaces.

Both the master bedroom and dressing room, and the junior bedrooms and dressing rooms, are located on the ground floor, in one wing of the house. They are also floored in dark brown oak strips, this time in a rectangular pattern which spatially delimits each room. The extensive master bedroom dressing room walls are also of dark brown oak, and the glass-fronted wardrobe frames are of brushed gold metal.

The master bedroom and dressing room, and the junior bedrooms and dressing rooms, are located on the first floor, in one wing of the house. They are also floored in dark brown oak strips, this time in a rectangular pattern which spatially delimits each room. The extensive master bedroom dressing room walls are also of dark brown oak, and the glass-fronted wardrobe frames are of brushed gold metal. The rest of the colour palette is lighter and brighter than that of the ground floor. The master bedroom walls are pale cream, as are the custom-designed floor-to-ceiling curtains. Sculptural furniture in simple, often rounded organic shapes, is by such designers as Baxter and Poltrona Frau as well as articles custom-designed by MK Design for each room.

The master bathroom’s flooring and walls are of Travertino, as are the custom-designed sink and sunken bath in a simple, rectilinear design. Cocoon plumbing fixtures are all of brushed gold.

Basement & Gym

In addition to staff accommodation the basement level incorporates the guest bedrooms and guest living room/dining room, which opens onto a lower patio; a mini-kitchen; and the gym, sauna, massage room and changing areas. In the guest bedrooms the colour palette and materials are carried through from the floors above. In the gym, dark oak is replaced by pale oak flooring and walls, lightening the enclosed space.

This sophisticated residence supports a lifestyle in which entertaining and family life play an important role. The minimal yet elegant aesthetic, sculptural volumes, tone-on-tone colour palette and restrained yet luxurious use of materials throughout, give the living spaces a serene and harmonious atmosphere.

Maria Kardami Design Studio was tasked with designing a house located in a privileged area, at the South Suburbs, in Panorama Voula. The two floor house has been designed to cover the needs of a big family with young kids. 

Our priority was to create enough flat area to enjoy outdoor activities, like the Barbeque Section at the backyard of the house, the narrow grey color tone swimming pool, and the fireplace focal point.

Moving to the inside, we can feel the perfectly balanced geometry of the space. Modern minimal elegance, in a nude color palette and curved volumes, give the space its unique identity.

The main family activities will take place at the lower ground level, at the playroom. A large open space activities room with travertine cladding fireplace and direct eye contact view to the kid’s playroom through a big glass door panel. The guest room is located on the same floor. A room with independent access from the rest of the house, including bedroom, lounge and kitchenet, following the main color palette and design elements of the rest of the house.

Moving to the upper floor, at the ground floor level, the main focal point is with no doubt the living room. Large opening glass doors with narrow black metal frames which all open onto the garden. The Pierre Augustine beige tone sitting furniture frame the Oreus coffee table, in front of the fireplace in curvy details. Pale oak flooring visually unites the apartments’ spaces. The dining room is located next to the living room with direct access to the garden, through the balcony doors. Three wide openings make the space bright and warm with the sunlight engulfing the neutral colors. 

The kitchen area has direct access to the living room through glass doors panels. With an island breakfast bar/work surface in beige travertine stone texture and light oak wooden cladding at the cupboards. Hidden, indirect ceiling lighting creates a feeling of airiness. 

The master ensuite bedroom with the walk-in closet occupies half of the first floor. Four large opening glass doors with narrow black metal frames, all open onto the balconies. With Apparatus lighting fixtures on the side of the custom travertine king size bed, the hidden, indirect ceiling lighting creates a feeling of airiness. The walk-in closet was designed to cover the needs of a young mother, using light oak wood for the flooring and the cabinets, curve elements and various openings. The master bathroom’s flooring and walls are of Travertino, as is the custom-designed sink in a simple, rectilinear design. Cocoon plumbing fixtures are all dark grey and Emmanuelle Simon lighting fixtures decorate the wall.

The two junior bedrooms, with built-in closets, are equally airy and light, with cloud shape lighting fixtures, custom beds in white color, and rounded rabbit shape Romab Plyus armchairs. Lots of soft toys decorate the rooms and create a playful and calm atmosphere.

Maria Kardami Design Studio were asked by a professional client who lives abroad, but visits Athens frequently for business, to transform a split-level penthouse apartment on Levedi Street—a minute’s walking distance from glamorous Kolonaki Square in the centre of Athens—into a pied-à-terre which could also accommodate his family during holiday trips.

In renovating the spaces, the team used a highly restrained palette of colours and forms to create a contemporary aesthetic that gracefully combines the traditional and the contemporary. The predominant colours throughout are shades of white and palest cream, with sparse touches of black and gold. Blond chevron oak parquet flooring visually unites the communal and private spaces. Panelled wood walls throughout the apartment are complemented by delicate floral cornice mouldings and ceiling rosettes in every room which add a visual delight to the interior spaces.

Instead of the typical division of rooms for kitchen, dining, and living, spaces on the lower-level look towards each other. Big, softly curved and rounded white Pierre Augustine sofa and armchairs rest on a round Minotti rug like an island archipelago in the living room, where black bookshelves flank a black marble fireplace surmounted by a large mirror.

The Baxter dining table is of black marble, and Apparatus lighting fixtures and ornaments are in black and gold, as is the Piet Fran arched side console.

The dining area leads directly into the kitchen, whose countertop, splashback and asymmetrical island with bar-seating are of gold-brown veined white Patagonia marble. Fixtures, cupboards and built-in glass-fronted wine cabinet along one wall are black.

The large master bedroom suite occupies half the second floor, and the

The master bedroom is designed to incorporate a sleeping area and an intimate living area. On either side of the wide opening from the sleeping area to the living area built-in bookshelves with recessed lighting seem to float, as does the bed on its white platform base.

The living area, with built-in wardrobes along one wall, opens to a large balcony screened by lacy bamboos and shaded by a contemporary metal version of the traditional Greek pergola.
Minotti outdoor seating and coffee table create a comfortable, private retreat in which to have a late evening drink or peaceful early morning coffee.

The master bathroom design is completely contemporary. Walls, floor and counter are entirely of Calacatta Gold marble, with outlined golden and pale grey streaks on an-off white base. Cocoon sink and shower fixtures are gold.

The other two bedrooms, with built-in closets, are equally airy and light, with gold Oluce lighting fixtures, custom side tables in black and white, and rounded Gallotti and Radice armchairs.