SEPTEMBER 2019 ELLEDECORATION.CO.UK 185GETAWAY /
ATHENS
Cooler than in the summer months, September is the best
time to explore the Greek capital’s unrivalled ancient
architecture and burgeoning design destinations
THE CITY Considered the birthplace of Western civilisation
and democracy, this metropolis may still be emerging from its
financial fall, but it feels buoyed by a fresh creative scene. Today,
Athens is a melting pot of new design talent, with a host of charming
cafés and restaurants, hip bars and carefully curated shops, all
nestled among the world’s most stunning ancient ruins.
WHERE TO STAY Designed by K-Studio, one of
the country’s hottest creative firms, the 38-bedroom Perianth Hotel
faces onto the Byzantine-era Agias Irinis Square, neighbouring the
buzzing Monastiraki district. Its Art Deco-influenced interior
reflects the 1930s converted office building it calls home, with blush
and sage-green velvet upholstery, terrazzo floors and brass-accented
walnut furniture. Don’t miss the adjoining Zen Center Athens,
where guests are offered a free meditation or yoga session (from
£115 per night; perianthhotel.com). To live like a local, check into
one of the seven self-catering Athens Green Apartments. Previously
home to many Greek poets, actors and film directors, the townhouse
in which the apartments are located is now owned by furniture
designer Yannis Zachariadis – expect an eclectic mix of vintage and
modern pieces sourced from around the city (from £45 per night;
athensgreen.gr). For a luxe stay, try the five-star AthensWas hotel
by maverick designer Stavros Papayannis. Its 21 suites echo the
playfulness of the 1950s and 70s, with pieces by Le Corbusier and
Ettore Sottsass, while its rooftop restaurant Sense has views of the
Acropolis (from £160 per night; athenswas.gr).Views across Athens
from the Perianth Hotel