Esperia Hotel is one of the most important buildings in the center of Athens. The hotel ceased its operation around 2010 and the need for restoration is obvious. The area in which the building is located constitutes one of the most important axes of the historic center of Athens, next to very important buildings. The new façade of the building needs to be integrated into the urban fabric.

In our proposal we seek to restore the intention of the original drawings of the building by unifying the elements of the façade into a new system. Using the elements of the existing façade, that is the grid of the balconies and the horizontal elements of the rooftop, we propose the creation of a 'filter' which highlights the particular architectural elements of the building.

On the lower floors the vertical elements are denser in order to protect the visitor from the hustle of the city and the busy street. On the top floors they become increasingly sparse, allowing unobstructed views of the city. Another element added to the filter is a green system with vertical plants alternating with the vertical elements of the façade.
The design of the hotel aims both to serve the guests staying in the rooms and to create the right conditions for hosting events and any type of gatherings.

The main restaurant is located on the 9th floor, with unobstructed views of the west side of the city and the Acropolis, while a small dining area is created on the terrace next to the rooftop swimming pool.

FIRST PRIZE - CLOSED ARCHITECTURAL COMPETITION