This project involved the renovation of a 110 m² penthouse apartment in a 1962 building in Kipseli, Athens. The architectural intervention by KAN atelier focused on reorganizing the layout to accommodate a family of four, opening the plan to the south to connect the living areas and kitchen directly with the large terrace. The design respected the apartment’s mid-century character while introducing new materials and contemporary detailing — a dialogue between preservation and renewal that also defined the lighting concept.

The lighting design sought to reveal this balance: to highlight the authentic textures of the original materials while integrating modern elements that enhance comfort and functionality. The restored oak floors and terrazzo surfaces are softly illuminated to emphasize their depth and natural patina. Subtle wall washers and concealed linear sources accentuate the exposed concrete beams and columns, framing the structural rhythm as part of the visual composition.

Reused vintage luminaires, combined with newly selected fixtures inspired by the aesthetics of past decades, create a nostalgic yet refined atmosphere. These are paired with contemporary lighting systems — track-mounted spotlights and adjustable accents — providing flexibility and precision for everyday use. The resulting contrast between retro forms and modern functionality enriches the space with layers of warmth, history, and quiet sophistication.

Throughout the apartment, light acts as a unifying element — bridging old and new, texture and smoothness, nostalgia and clarity — turning the renovated home into a luminous narrative of continuity and transformation.