Thirteenth session Idea-Tops AwardInterior Architecture Lighting DesignWINNERS

Award-Winning Works of Idea-Tops

Global Best Design Interior Architecture Lighting Design

Winner:Not a Number Architects

WINNERS:Monasty Hotel

Monasty Hotel Monasty’s interior design draws inspiration from the thousand-year byzantine heritage of the city of Thessaloniki. The title of the second most important metropolis of the Byzantine empire is long lost but remains faintly evident in the numerous Christian orthodox temples of that era still standing in the historic centre of the city. The spirituality of those spaces is the magic that we tried to instill in the design of the new Autograph Collection hotel and at the same time merge an alternative sense of locality with the international luxury brand of Marriott. The fact that the hotel site neighbours the only operating monastery inside the city centre which was rebuilt after the great fire of 1917 on the remnants of an older byzantine one, further informed our design. A mystic atmosphere throughout the common spaces of the 100-room hotel is achieved through an austere materiality and subtle use of natural and artificial lighting. The monastic experience is coupled with the high-end operation of a 5* hotel, making it a luxury refuge from the bustling city centre. The interior layout of the ground floor is organized on a stark symmetry of spaces with the bar taking centre stage in the central axis that emulates the nave of early Byzantine temples. This gesture gets amplified by the grandiose wooden ceiling that extends over the entrance to the front and over a secret garden to the back. Three majestic brass-coated chandeliers reminiscent of hanging candlesticks further accentuate the central axis inviting visitors to the bar as it becomes visible from across the street. The Byzantine weave pattern of the stone flooring runs from the covered plaza of the entrance to the lobby area unifying the exterior with the interior spaces. The reception area stands out with the juxtaposition of a black marble desk on a floor to wall monochromatic brick surface, further complemented with warm wood elements such as gridded partitions and shelving creating an imposing yet welcoming atmosphere. Right at the opposite side visitors get a view of the hotel’s restaurant. Decked out in an array of simple and warm materials its design takes cues from the menu's folklore and contemporary duality, creating a collage of traditional and historic references. Murky neutral shades used in Byzantine iconography inform the interior’s colour palette. At the same time, design elements that intensify the monastic references such as alcove shaped seating banquettes and domed ceilings are carefully combined while materials that celebrate craftsmanship such as weathered leather, woven rattans, brushed wood and smeared mortars create a rich tactile experience. Site specific paintings depict the story of Thessaloniki in the form of Byzantine murals, while sporadically dotted light pendants that float throughout the space, complete the reverent ambiance. In the secret garden, a mixture of greenery and elements of water further isolate the visitor from the bustling city, creating an atmosphere of contemplation and tranquility.

Interior Architecture Lighting Design Global TOP 5

Winner:TRIMONIS architects

WINNERS:Residence with art museum&depot U40

Building size: 1540 m2  / Area size: 1458 m2The complex is located in a stunning area of Vilnius (Lithuania), offering a breathtaking view of the city's old town. Its history dates back to 1808 when the plot's boundaries were established.Main challenges:The main object of the project was to seamlessly blend the old and new architectural elements using a contemporary design language. The project involved creating a harmonious combination of multifunctional spaces, both private and public, within a relatively limited area while capturing their unique ambience. Additionally, a significant number of artworks needed to be integrated into the interior of the private and public spaces. The interior concept focuses on integrating spaces with different functions while incorporating art exhibitions throughout.Accomplishments:To meet these objectives, various changes were made to the art collection displays, and over 200 art objects were strategically integrated into specific areas of the residential spaces, adhering to a particular artistic theme. The concept embraced the idea of art exhibitions in unexpected locations, such as a sculpture exhibition in the elevator shaft, a sculpture and painting display in the staircase, an incorporated folk art showcase in the kitchen area, a medal exposition in the corridor, and frescoes and sculptures in the classrooms. The integration of double paintings into sliding glass doors was also employed.Despite the limited space, the design maximized the functionality of the areas, employing movable floors in the conference room that allow for versatile use. For instance, the room can be transformed into a swimming pool when the floor is lowered. Storage rooms also serve dual purposes, functioning as exhibition spaces open to the public. Additionally, the inner courtyard-piazza of the complex hosts an outdoor sculpture exhibition and serves as a venue for exclusive cocktail bar services and various summer events. The main emphasis of the interior design is on art, with the entire complex serving as an educational space. Visitors can experience a comprehensive connection to Lithuanian art from various periods, with over 8,000 exhibits, including paintings, sculptures, historic maps, graphics, historical Lithuanian books, and an extensive collection of folk art. Art exhibits can be found in unexpected areas, such as the elevator shaft, kitchen, and staircase area, creating a truly immersive artistic experience for visitors.The interior design maintains a cohesive aesthetic with the exterior, utilizing materials like copper, old yellow masonry, and wooden planks. Both the exterior and interior embrace a dominant theme of 15% oblique geometry, creating a harmonious and visually captivating atmosphere.Innovations applied: Specially designed luminous shutters protect the gallery spaces from sunlight while subtly illuminating the exhibition areas. The transforming conference room's floor into a swimming pool with a spa and sauna area.The integration of double paintings into sliding glass doors in the office area.

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