It is in the north east city of Greece, Komotini, that architect Minas Kosmidis, chose to leave his design mark of stimulating vibrancy and electrifying playfulness, an element easily identified in all his projects. This time, it is the Away Café Bar that worked as a canvas for the architect’s inventive imagination, leaving us pleasantly astounded once again..!
In the generous space of 150 sq.m., in addition to another 70 sq.m. outdoor seating space, the message is loud and clear even before stepping inside, through the luggage trolley parked at the entrance and the neon sign which instructs us to get away! The high ceiling of the semi-industrial space is painted the dark blue of the ocean, a vital element of water on our planet in which dolphins leap. The earth itself is referenced through the two hemispheres and sparkling stars of the light installations by a large primeval rock inspired table. If you feel like taking a cruise, just approach the bar and the ship awaits you, and on a nearby wall is a pretty retro mural of tattoo art. If air travel is more to your liking then the PANAM lounge is there, a relaxing space which leads to your flight to exotic destinations! Wherever you look, the virtual traveller can sit and dream of holidays near and afar, from a New York city break to an African safari. Or perhaps just browse amongst a wall of postcards and a collection of souvenirs.
When nature calls, the basement is the place of the ‘luggage lockers’ and the suitcase themes bathroom facilities. You just can’t get away from the temptation to travel and see the world in this wonderfully imaginative interior. In the surrealistic spirit and escape from reality, we are encouraged by the motto of the space, ‘la vol est a nous’ to spread our wings and see the world! So, even if you were not intending to travel this year, after a visit to the Away Cafe and Bar in Komotini, you may very well change your mind!
