New Hotel, Athens

Designed by the Brazilian architects Campana Brothers, this remarkable hotel in the heart of Athens is alive with energy and passion.

Formerly Olympic Palace Hotel built-in 1958, the building went through years of architectural restoration, providing a shell for a unique and fresh realization.

The design of the New Hotel merges old with new—some of the original features remain perfectly intact, such as the sweeping black marble staircase, which creates a dramatic backdrop to the hotel’s reception. But the Campana Brothers took the project to a new level. Combining unusual materials, objects and fabrics, the designers have created a truly unconventional place.

Eclectic harmony

The pillars interspersed around the communal area recycle old furniture from the previous hotel: the pieces ‘pasted’ to the pillars contribute to a delightful aesthetic of the lobby area. Then corridors are covered in bark cloth from Uganda—a natural wallpaper produced by processing bark from the Moraceae tree.

Working with students for an insight into the local culture, the Campanas brought folk themes and historical references to interiors. Golden fairytale characters adorning the walls pay homage to Karagiozis, a mischievous shadow puppet. Handmade glass eyes, illuminated for an arresting effect embrace the ‘evil eye’: a bead charm used to guard against ill omen. Finally, a wall collage of historic postcards offers a glimpse of old Athens.

Hand-picked

The hotel offers 79 suites, all sumptuously furnished with mostly handmade furniture and decoration, complimenting the boutique style of the hotel. Almost all items are individual, carefully selected by the designers.

The bedrooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows, bamboo wood tables and floors, while the bathrooms showcase solid brass washbasins in the striking shape of fragmented rocks.

Every work of art has its apex—at New Hotel it’s the top-floor terrace. Linked to an executive lounge filled with art and business-friendly technology, it boasts one of the most breathtaking views in the city.

in our opinion

The New Hotel in Athens is undoubtedly one of the trendiest properties in Athens—thanks to its avant-garde style, friendly staff, and comfortable amenities.

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What we love

• Inspirational and quirky design from The Campana Brothers;
• Great service, attentive staff;
• NEW TASTE restaurant offering a great range of Mediterranean food;
• Delicious breakfast with freshly baked pastries;
• Complimentary WiFi access in all areas;
• An ideal location to get the best of Athens—the hotel address on Filellinon Street, next to Constitution Square places it within walking distance of the major sights: the Roman ruins of Plaka, Acropolis and its new museum, as well as the stylish café and boutique shopping district of Kolonaki.

What you should know

• The style is modern, bold and colorful: guests of a more conservative taste may find it too much;
• Rooms are a little small;
• The streets around the hotel are busy—best to book a room on the upper floor to avoid hearing the humming traffic;
• There is no swimming pool;
• Pets are not permitted;
• Both smoking and non-smoking rooms are available.