Located on Katouni Street, one of the most vibrant and socially active areas of Thessaloniki, Looén Bar – Restaurant is conceived as an eclectic, multispace destination that seamlessly blends classical references with contemporary European aesthetics. Housed within a three-storey listed building, the project embraces the architectural character of its shell while introducing a refined, modern identity suited to a dynamic urban lifestyle.
The spatial concept is structured to support a continuous rhythm of use throughout the day. From early morning, the space functions as a social hub for specialty coffee and brunch, gradually transforming in the evening into a vibrant bar and restaurant offering signature cocktails and an extensive wine selection. This temporal flexibility is reflected in the interior layout, where zones are subtly differentiated yet remain visually and atmospherically connected.
The gastronomic identity reinforces this layered approach, combining Asian-influenced modern bar food with sharing plates designed for communal dining. Architecture and interior design act as a backdrop to this social and culinary exchange, allowing experience and interaction to take precedence.
The main decorative strategy is based on a curated mix-and-match composition of elegant spaces, each distinguished by a contemporary twist. Custom-designed lighting fixtures play a central role in shaping the atmosphere—resembling refined pieces of jewellery, they operate as focal points within the interior. Paired with carefully selected music, lighting contributes to the immersive character of the space and reinforces its identity as a contemporary urban destination.
Materiality further enriches the experience. Luxurious fabrics are applied selectively across seating and surfaces, while patterned tiles and exposed brick walls introduce texture, warmth, and a sense of intimacy. These elements soften the historic shell and create a balance between sophistication and comfort.
Looén Bar – Restaurant emerges as a carefully orchestrated interior where heritage, design, gastronomy, and social life converge—an atmospheric destination that reflects Thessaloniki’s evolving urban culture through architectural clarity and experiential depth. Photography: Powell Kimberley
