Gargaretta, all day bistrot
140m2
Architect: Elena Stavropoulou
Collaborating architects:
Naya Kostarelou, Vaggelis Valtikos
Construction: Stephanos Veronis,
civil engineer
Light Study: Neapolis
Photos: Julia Klimi,
George Messaritakis
The inspiration for the creation of Gargaretta derives from the center of the city that is constantly changing and developing, blending the future and the past, sounds and their cracks, the repetitive patterns and contrasts. This is reflected in all the elements of the interior design.
The challenges and the obstacles that had to be resolved were the division into two levels as well as the substantial length and the limited width of the space.
The intention was that the space should embrace the guest and trigger her imagination, bringing out the aromas and colors of Mediterranean culture. The functions of the space, both a restaurant and a market, are organized around a central axis, dividing it into two levels; the cook gives the final touch to the dishes in the first zone while the bar tender’s and the sommelier’s area shapes the second one.
The only interior wall, running the length of the restaurant becomes a kind of scaffolding and creates a grid with surfaces; malleable shells that function as vitrines and closed shelves that house locally produced goods from different places in Greece. The materials used are textiles and leather, metal and wood. Special attention is given to the details and the texture of the materials, since each one has a story to tell.
During the day the whole space is filled with light thanks to the large glass panels that can be opened, linking the guest with the vibe of the city. In the evening the atmosphere is cozy with a balanced, discreet and delicate lighting.
The interior design encompasses the invisible, but very important, dimension of sound. The ceiling is covered with over 2000 meters of soundproof strips.
This surface is knitted by hand and covers the whole ceiling creating a welcoming and calm environment which stimulates conversation and communication.