KDI CONTRACT designed a new pharmacy located at the historic Nikoloudi Gallery in Panepistimiou Street, in the heart of Athens. The gallery was initially designed by the architect Alexandros Nikoloudis, in the late 19th century, based on similar arcades existing in other cities of Europe at the time. It has been characterized, by the Greek Ministry of Culture, as an historical monument and an architectural work of art with remarkable composition, function and typology, of the few remaining from the interwar era.

In this project, KDI CONTRACT studied extensively the gallery’s history and architectural transformations, throughout time, in order to create a pharmacy which fits in perfectly with its historic location and respects the architectural heritage of the surrounding built environment. The design team selected classic materials, such as marble and bronze, traditional craftsmanship, such as wooden carvings on the furniture and vitraux color patterns on the ceiling, combined with up-to-date product placement systems, such as illuminated shelves. Every corner and every little detail of the space reminds of the glamour and warmth of «old» Athens’ pharmacies and reconnects harmoniously the city’s past and present.

“This project is a unique addition to our pharmacy portfolio because it demonstrates how modern design can co-exist with tradition and preserve the architectural continuity of our city.” - Yiannis Kourtalis, Director & Co-Founder