Tea and symmetry: traditional Japanese architecture inspires Greek teahouse
Affluent Athenian shopping district Kolonaki may have suffered its own downturn during the Greek financial crisis, but it has begun showing signs of a defiant cultural renaissance, with a number of new cafes, boutiques and creative institutions springing up on its steep streets.
One prime example, on Alexandrou Soutsou, is To Tsai, a small but perfectly formed teahouse that recently underwent an interior overhaul by architectural firm Georges Batzios. The calm, minimalist space, inspired by traditional Japanese tea ceremony architecture, features pale wooden furnishings, including a tea island, and a laminated timber framework, backlit to create shadows and lines.
'The ornament-free minimalistic details of the interior spaces, combined with the wonderful odour palette of the teas and the soft music, are creating that 'Zen' universe (where) the artsy residents and tourists can retire (while within) this noisy part of the city,' says Batzios.
The teahouse has two distinct spaces: a serene lounge, perfect for escaping the hubbub of the city and a retail space, stocking around 500 varieties of tea.
A constant source of relaxation and renewal for many of us, tea, as Batzios puts it, 'works like a remedy'.
ADDRESS
Al. Soutsou 19, Athina 106 71, Greece
Wallpaper* Newsletter
Receive our daily digest of inspiration, escapism and design stories from around the world direct to your inbox
-
Remembering Richard Serra (1938-2024), American art’s man of steel
American artist Richard Serra, whose vast sculptures transformed landscapes around the world, has died aged 85
By Hannah Silver Published
-
Architectural gardens around the world to soothe the soul
From small domestic gardens, to nature reserves, urban interventions and local parks, here are some of the finest green projects that place nature at their heart
By Ellie Stathaki Published
-
Corfu hotel Domes Miramare redefines beachfront bliss
Make like Jackie O at Corfu hotel Domes Miramare, a property with contemporary luxury and echoes of 1960s glamour in spades
By Bridget Downing Published