Studio KISKO transforms a former COVID Test Facility into an authentic Mykonian Spritzeria

Located in the narrow streets of Mykonos, SOULMATES embodies the narrative of past and present, merging the island’s rich history with modern life. Focusing on the dualities that define Mykonos—the land and the sea, Greek heritage and cosmopolitan identity, party culture and Cycladic spirituality—STUDIO KISKO has transformed a former COVID Test Facility into a soulful space where the island’s stories unfold, creating a new meeting point for both locals and travelers. As its name suggests, SOULMATES represents the unbreakable bonds formed through unexpected encounters.

Clients Spiros and Stratos envisioned an authentic Mykonian Spritzeria in the heart of Mykonos. Architect and founder of STUDIOKISKO, Fragkiskos Sarris, skillfully blends the contrasting elements that define the island’s unique identity—rugged textures, whitewashed walls, and ancient marble fragments—all harmonized with contemporary forms, materials, and colors.

The centerpiece of the design is two monolithic concrete forms that serve as the spritzeria’s counters. With soft, sculpted edges shaped as if by the sea over time, these structures anchor the space. The flooring echoes traditional Cycladic interiors, featuring a patterned tile composition with varying gloss finishes, allowing light to reflect in distinctive ways.

“The walls are adorned with dark-stained wooden shelves and unique compositions of spolia, resembling the historic marble fragments characteristic of Aegean architecture. These, combined with rough plaster textures, are enhanced by carefully curated lighting that creates an atmospheric ambiance”.

One of the most striking features of SOULMATES is the ceiling, which showcases a hand-painted mural by artist Christina Mandilari (NAKED SUMMERS). Inspired by the rich tradition of Cycladic manor houses and their intricately decorated ceilings, the mural celebrates the secrets of the ocean.

Mandilari created three distinct zones, imitating the playful movement of light, waves, and marine life, evoking a nostalgic, lighthearted feeling—a memory of summers spent under the Greek sun. Studio Kisko values the connection between human interaction and the material culture that shapes it. The architecture of Soulmates serves as a meaningful space on the island, embodying these principles and bringing them to life.

Facts & Credits:

Project title: Soulmates Mykonos, Typology: Authentic Mykonian Spritzeria | Interior design, Location: Mykonos – Cyclades – Greece, Architecture: Studio Kisko, Lead Architect: Fragkiskos Sarris, Artwork: Christina Mandilari – Naked Summers, Tiles – Taps & Fixtures: Afoi Delli, Status: Completed 2024, Text description: Fragkiskos Sarris, Photography: Thanassis Gatos – GTstudio