Spaces for modern living: when creative minds meet Twelve Concept

The most impressive architectural projects are fully realised when architects work with the most aesthetically pleasing, finest materials, and a team with unmatched expertise to work with them on their construction. It is a visual conversation, taking on nuanced accents to tell a whole story. As Twelve Concept say of their studio philosophy on material research and development and product design: ‘We are dedicated to pushing boundaries’.

When Twelve Concept was approached to provide the custom designed exterior flooring, and kitchens and bathrooms for Villa Filothei in Athens, it was an opportunity to help define precisely what modern living can be. The result, finished in 2023, is a 21st century masterpiece of design in one of the most prestigious areas, in one of the most ancient cities in the world.

Filothei is a project in collaboration with Whitebox Architects and the interior design team of KŪ design atelier. Twelve Concept worked closely with both studios to support and elevate everything proposed to the end client. This was going to be a luxury home, and a symbol for contemporary living, with a seamless transition from the exterior design to the interior spaces. Every material used was selected on the basis of being the most sophisticated of its kind, as well as being durable and practical. This is a property intended to deliver joy that exceeds all expectations and is built to last for generations. Athens is a place of extreme beauty and weather, and Filothei complements the sightlines and landscape as much as it withstands anything the climate can conjure up.

Each space at Filothei was planned and executed with a view to constant use as much as visual appeal. Both elements are part of the conversation between the three design studios involved. There is a strong, modernist, pavilion-style to Filothei, with floor to ceiling glass in the main house, framed with geometric clean lines and terraces. Twelve Concept supplied and installed an incredible outdoor grilling area, in dark stone and wood, with the main BBQ inset within a broad expanse of counter. Built across the lawn from the main house, and covered for shade, it creates a beat within the rhythm of Filothei – a place for a family lunch, or a sunset party.

The ceramic exterior tile flooring provided by Twelve Concept is a chic introduction to the interior spaces. Inside, there are more clean lines, and a soothing color palette, from rich stone to earth tones. Each element within the kitchen and bathrooms is bespoke. The jet-black faucets, plumbing and sinks create a dramatic juxtaposition against the natural stone finishings of the showers and bathrooms. Dark finishings are used in spaces where natural light floods through, casting graphic beams across walls and floors. The interior architecture of the kitchen and bathrooms incorporates superb contemporary lighting, that makes every space look stunning 24/7.

Twelve Concept is a boutique studio, but with a grand, modern perspective on design. It consists of a small, dedicated team of 30, but with over 40 years of experience in the business. Every material selected, and object created, is a thing of beauty, and always sustainable. Waste is minimal, and everything has longevity built in.

Twelve Concept pulls from a comprehensive library of the finest materials and over 4,000 products – porcelain slabs and tiles, concrete, terrazzo slabs, natural stone and marble, wooden floors, quartz, mosaics, wallpapers, moss tiles, cement claustra, 3D cement and glass tiles. They have become one of the go-to studios in Greece, and throughout Europe, for refined exterior finishes as well as bathrooms, spas, pools and kitchens.

From the wash basins and shower spaces to the kitchen tops and furniture in the kitchen at Filothei, Twelve Concept always demonstrates that it can surprise and excel when presented with any brief. Nothing needs to seem standard issue – interiors can be effortless but still outstanding and give you a template to live your best life.

© Architonic

Head to the Architonic Magazine for more insights on the latest products, trends and practices in architecture and design.