Cement surfaces and colorful tiles adorn this fresh all-day café bar in Kaisariani, Athens

Ü Athens is a fresh all-day café bar, in Kaisariani area, designed by Karn studio. The Ü shape derives from the quote “na hamogelas” which in Greek means “to smile” and reflects the store’s philosophy.

Feeling industrial, with focal points like the electrical and ventilation network being visible, the space’s main design idea is inspired by the minimalist side of forged cement. Colors, textures and materials are inspired by this idea, updated with contemporary details.

“Tiles create a strip that traverses the space and lines from led lights create an ambient atmosphere day to night”.

The space has a main entrance and a side one with four folding doors. At the main entrance, a big window with a bench creates a vivid façade. Simple, playful, and versatile stools made of recycled plastic, and custom-made tables and benches made of inox and brass, create a welcoming seating area.

Branding details such as the movable led signage and the iridescent sticker at the entrance door are subtle highlights amongst the cement surfaces. Together the elements glow from within an elegantly restored architecture that evokes the atmosphere of a contemporary all-day space.

Facts & Credits:

Project title: Ü Athens, Typology: All-day café bar – Interior architecture, Location: Kaisariani – Athens – Greece, Design: Karn studio | Karagianni Nancy, 3D modeling: Lazaridis Dimitris, Identity: Xistris George, Size: 37m², Status: completed, Wiring accessories | berker R.1 concrete switches: Hager Hellas, Text description: Karagianni Nancy, Photography: Palaskos Thanos