The new design arrival in the heart of Athens: a hotel at the corner of Chalkokondyli and 3rd September Streets that combines modern design, neoclassical decor, and art.
In the recent race to revitalize the wider Omonia area, there have been both successful and less effective initiatives. Only those that respect the commercial character of the area and focus on art—which has always been in dialogue with the center of Athens—have succeeded.
Omonia: A Meeting Place and Cultural Melting Pot
Omonia has always been a meeting place, a hub of multicultural commerce, a melting pot of cultures and diverse identities. Any changes that fail to consider this authentic DNA of the area are doomed to fail. Successful initiatives emphasize Omonia’s dual identity: on one side, the bustling commercial hub with department stores, ethnic shops, and small businesses offering technical services, and on the other, a space of interactive art that embraces contrasts and celebrates the lively, extroverted culture of the area.
The Vision Omonia Example: Focusing on Modern Greek Art
A prime example of conscious renewal that respects the authentic character of Athens’ city center is the new Vision Omonia hotel. It boasts a stunning rooftop with breathtaking views of Omonia Square, the Acropolis, and Lycabettus Hill, along with modern decor that highlights Athens’ neoclassical elements. Each space in the hotel engages in dialogue with art and the city’s neoclassical charm, steering clear of sterile, flashy luxury.
This is why Finders Group, bringing the international Vision chain to Greece for the first time, enlisted renowned art and interior designer Kirios Kriton to dress every room in art, effectively transforming the entire hotel into a living gallery.
According to Vision Omonia representatives, the hotel’s main objective is to “honor the multicultural essence of Omonia, ensuring it is not just a place to stay but a hub of creativity, contributing to the continuous revitalization and celebration of this historic neighborhood.”
The 7×7 Gallery: Art Across Seven Floors
The 7×7 Gallery, curated by Kirios Kriton, brings together the artistic vision of seven selected visual artists. Each of the hotel’s seven floors is dedicated to one artist, creating a unique cultural narrative for guests as they explore the facilities.
This concept, known as “Art Room Service,” ensures that every room features an exclusive piece of art, allowing guests to deeply connect with authentic works by Greek artists. Every artwork is available for purchase, giving visitors the chance to take a piece of their Athenian experience home.
Neoclassical Elegance Meets Impressive Modern Design
Vision Omonia features 42 rooms and suites, ranging from 26 to 60 square meters, offering an unparalleled experience with stunning views of the Acropolis and Lycabettus Hill. The impressive rooftop with the infinity pool stands out for its minimalist design and unique panoramic views of the Acropolis, Omonia Square, and Lycabettus Hill.
Black furniture with modernist curves adds a retro air to the rooms in a thoroughly contemporary manner. Earthy tones and soft-textured fabrics bring a sense of sophistication to the interiors, while black-and-white tiles in the bathrooms echo neoclassical patterns of classic Athens.