Located at the foot of the Acropolis in the heart of Athens, Melas Martinos is a new contemporary art gallery conceived by architectural firm Local Local
Photography by Lorenzo Zandri showcasing Melas Martinos, a new contemporary art gallery set within the diverse architecture of Athens and the result of a project by architectural practice Local Local
Words by Roddy Clarke
Set amongst the beautifully diverse urban landscape of Monastiraki, a historical neighbourhood in the heart of Athens, lies Melas Martinos, a new contemporary art gallery housed within an early 20th Century building that previously served as an antiques shop and has belonged to the same family for over a century. With a magical view of the Acropolis connecting the space to the ancient wonders of the region, the building has been brought back to life thanks to the creative vision of Local Local, a resident boutique architectural practice headed up by Sofia Xanthakou.
Photography by Lorenzo Zandri showcasing the interior of the gallery and it’s subtle redesign which allows the contemporary art to take centre stage
Split across different floors, the vision for the space came about after the family began using part of the building as a small gallery space which allowed them to envisage the entire venue being utilised as a larger-scale contemporary art gallery. ‘As a site built on artisan foundations, it quickly became a very instinctive project for us,’ says Xanthakou. ‘With its former life as an antiques store, part of which still occupies the ground floor, we were careful to develop a new space that would enhance both its context while delivering contemporary characteristics in order for it to become a new gallery space known for its curated material display and generous light proportions.’
Photography by Lorenzo Zandri showcasing the view of the Acropolis that can now be fully appreciated from the restored balconies of the building
Considering the building’s heritage and character, the studio’s careful transformation was conceived through close collaboration with the client. Augmenting the natural light that enters the building, the redesign has resulted in a four-floor gallery space that offers versatility to ensure the family can still display antiques between shows and exhibitions.
On the second floor, structural changes have allowed the space to be divided into two exhibition spaces, with the interior design remaining minimal throughout to ensure the artworks take centre stage. The top floor needed to be entirely rebuilt, not only to secure the structure of the building but to replace its original asbestos roof, resulting in the creation of a fourth gallery space. Through the renovation, intrinsic characteristics of the building have been revealed and preserved to celebrate the heritage of its architecture. A series of arches that were added during the 1960s by architect Takis Zenetos and an eye-catching collage wood and tile floor are two distinct features that have been exposed, while the original handcrafted spiral staircase has been sensitively restored, uniting each floor with a beautiful continuity.
Photography by Lorenzo Zandri showcasing the central staircase which has been sensitively restored and updated with a contemporary twist
On the exterior, a previously inaccessible balcony has been reopened to allow visitors the chance to appreciate an iconic view of the Parthenon and Acropolis Hill, while also getting close and personal to the decorative charm of the building itself. A terrazzo floor has been added to the balcony, thanks to local craftsmen utilising traditional techniques, with its red finish referencing the tiled roofs of neighbouring properties seen across the city.
Photography by Lorenzo Zandri showcasing how original features such as this tiled floor have been exposed and restored to celebrate the heritage of the building
In working with local artisans and enhancing the building’s existing characteristics, this sensitive restoration pays homage to the Local Local’s intentional design philosophy. And, while this intervention may seem subtle, its charm and execution echoes far across the beautiful vista that can now be fully appreciated from its reinstated vantage points. While working on projects between both Athens and London, this development is a specific reminder of the fulfilment and beauty found in the preservation and enhancement of such historical appeal, resulting in a residence that now seamlessly connects creativity and artistry spanning centuries and multiple generations.
The gallery’s current exhibition, Ron Nagle: Ode to a Grecian Formula, is currently on display until 30th August.
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