Mithimnis is a ‘simplified classical’-style building in Kypseli constructed in the 1920s, sensitively refurbished by Molonglo in collaboration with Royffe Flynn and H. Pangalou & Associates.
An eclectic, grand facade with Art Deco detailing belies the presence of two apartments housed within it. Both are airy, split over two levels, with ceilings that rise to six metres in places. The first-floor apartment has two bedrooms, two bathrooms and a rooftop terrace that looks out over the neighbourhood. The ground-floor apartment is arranged around a private courtyard garden, with four bedrooms and two bathrooms. It includes a self-contained studio on the lower ground floor – a cluster of semi-open-air spaces linked by a stone-walled corridor, reminiscent of a traditional village home.
The apartments have been refurbished in collaboration with London-based architects Royffe Flynn, who have faithfully preserved the proportions and original features of the spaces while introducing contemporary comforts and fixtures. Each of the spaces honours the site’s original builders and craftspeople, and each bears evidence of a continuing dialogue with textural materials—lovingly restored parquetry, a richly veined Cipollino marble, coarse terrazzo that hearkens to a forgotten era. Respected local tradespeople were chosen to ensure the quality and integrity of renovations.
Outdoor gardens and terraces have been designed by renowned Greek landscape architect Helli Pangalou, planted with native, drought-tolerant species accustomed to the hot Athenian summers. Furnishings have been sourced from local gallery Antiqua, Temporary Showroom and artist Theodore Psychoyos. Pieces have been selected to complement and enhance the individual character of the apartments—unexpected jewels in the understated, restrained spaces.
Mithimnis is part of a series of apartments by Molonglo, available to rent on a long term basis. As a body of work, they represent an act of reverse ruination. A stroll around the ancient city reveals crumbling façades, decaying foyers, buildings neglected or abandoned during periods of economic hardship.
Molonglo aims to restore these modern ruins and invest them, through sensitive renovation and repair, with new life. At its heart is a desire to honour dwellings conceived over many generations, and a philosophy of deliberate restraint. This approach privileges character over embellishment, timelessness over trends, and the somatic over the intellectual in its respect for geography and materials alike.
