Introduction to Art House

Design firm Kallos Turin completes Art House, a monolithic residence in Athens’ Filothei neighborhood, where strict zoning codes dictated the cubic form of the structure. Carved in poured concrete, the four-level dwelling emerges as a dense, sculptural volume that balances its solidity with movement—both in circulation through the house and in the lush landscape, which acts as a soft counterpoint to the rigid geometry.

The home is conceived as a sanctuary for an extensive art collection while also serving as a family gathering space. To maximize its limited footprint, the architects extend the program underground, embedding a gallery and garage below the house, with light wells filtering in air and natural light. Meanwhile, the upper floors connect to a cascading landscape.

all images by Ricardo Labougle, unless stated otherwise

Curved Corners Define the Residence

Positioned at the edge of a protected hillside, international design firm Kallos Turin’s Art House dissolves its cubic mass through curvilinear interventions. A gently winding pathway leads from the street to the main entry, weaving through plantings to obscure the house from direct view. The front facade curves inward, drawing visitors toward a bespoke bronze and brass door punctuated by circular motifs. Once inside, the geometry continues to unravel—a striking ovoid staircase spirals through all four levels, warping the perception of the rigid concrete shell. Even the gallery defies convention with its softly rounded corners, allowing the art to be experienced without the interruption of harsh linear edges.

The uppermost level of the residence opens to sweeping views of Athens on one side and a private garden on the other, extending the interior space outdoors. A second exterior stair echoes the fluidity of the interior circulation, ascending to a rooftop pool that crowns the residence. Throughout the home, organic curves gently subvert the imposing cubic mass, appearing in lightwells, staircases, and even in the detailing of custom elements such as the entry door and furnishings.

the design emerges as a dense, sculptural volume | image by Giorgios Sfakianakis

Curated Gardens and Interiors

Inspired by the untamed Mediterranean flora, the Art House garden is planted with myrtle, lentiscus, rosemary, savory, and thyme, creating a self-sustaining ecosystem that requires minimal irrigation. Planters are embedded within the concrete at various levels, allowing vegetation to spill over the structure, further softening its presence. In a nod to Filothei’s origins as a garden city, the design envisions a future where nature could ultimately overtake the built form.

The interior of Art House is equally curated, featuring a selection of contemporary and vintage furniture, including a Mangiarotti Eos table, Joseph Andre Motte chairs, Gaetano Pesce seating, and lighting by Achille Castiglioni and Michael Anastassiades. The kitchen—designed for culinary pursuits—centers around a 5.5-meter La Cornue island and tall cabinetry by Boffi, extending into an outdoor barbecue area.

Art House is conceived as a sanctuary for an extensive art collection | image by Giorgios Sfakianakis

lush landscape acts as a soft counterpoint to the rigid geometry | image by Giorgios Sfakianakis

Conclusion

Art House, designed by Kallos Turin, is a masterful blend of form and function, where the rigid concrete structure is softened by the lush landscape and curved interventions. The residence is a true sanctuary for art and family, with its carefully curated interiors and exteriors creating a unique and breathtaking space. The project showcases the firm’s ability to balance solidity and movement, creating a dense, sculptural volume that is both imposing and inviting. As a testament to the power of thoughtful design, Art House is a must-see destination for anyone interested in architecture, art, and the beauty of the Mediterranean landscape.