Il Buco in Athens reminds us how refreshing the simple contrast of black and white can be.
Discovered via our Athens-based friend Lydia Chroni, the restaurant was designed by Dionisis+Kirki of Workshop and SOTOVIKIS + B. Working together, the architects created a light-filled, gallery-like space, where a collection of mismatched chairs sourced from local antiques markets function as an art installation. "The high ceilings of the neoclassical architecture and a collection of antique wooden chairs reveal traces of prewar Athens," Lydia says. "The black and white modern interior is a perfect blend of old and new—a reflection of my city."
Photography by Vassilis Makris. Images via Yatzer.
Above: The restaurant is located on the third floor of a neoclassical building in the fashionable neighborhood of Psiri.
Above: The design emphasizes the building's tall ceilings; black door trim heightens the sense of entry.
Above: Droog's 85 Lamps and drapey white gauze curtains add a soft note.
Above: Mismatched chairs (a mix of antique and midcentury) add texture and warmth.
Above: Artist and designer Dionisis Sotovikis created art for the walls by folding and twisting tracing paper.
Above: The curvaceous forms of the chairs stand out vividly in the white space.