Ace Hotel Athens on the iconic Athens Riviera blends modern design, Greek artistry, and mid-century glamour. Discover why this cool, creative destination redefines luxury hospitality
As we, all “hotel trotters” know well from Ace properties in other cities, this brand has mastered the art of creating spaces that are effortlessly cool and deeply connected to their surroundings. Ace Hotel Athens is not just a place to stay—it’s a destination that seamlessly combines cutting-edge design, local artistry, and a sense of timeless cool. Located in the heart of the Athens Riviera, in Glyfada, this extraordinary hotel brings new life to the Brutalist bones of the former Fenix Hotel. With interiors crafted by renowned French studio ciguë, a curated art program showcasing 18 contemporary Greek artists, and a setting that celebrates both the past and present of coastal Greece, Ace Athens is a must-visit for design enthusiasts, art lovers, and travelers in search of a vibrant cultural experience.
Here are 10 reasons to love Ace Hotel Athens:
1. An Architectural Triumph of Adaptive Reuse
The transformation of the former Fenix Hotel into Ace Hotel Athens is a masterclass in adaptive reuse. Designed by ciguë, the project retains the stark geometry of its Brutalist facade while introducing elements that evoke both modern and mid-century design. Drawing inspiration from Greek modernist architect Aris Konstantinidis, the redesign integrates clean lines, bold balconies, and natural materials like plaster and ceramic tiles, creating a structure that feels simultaneously timeless and contemporary. The facade is further animated by large-scale murals, including a standout piece by Claire Manent, which mimics the clean lines of the architecture while paying homage to 1960s Riviera aesthetics.
2. A Prime Location on the Athens Riviera
Glyfada, the vibrant neighborhood where Ace Athens resides, is a destination steeped in history and charm. Once the playground of icons like Jackie Onassis and Frank Sinatra, the Athens Riviera has undergone a modern revival, blending glamorous beachside culture with a new wave of creativity and style. The hotel’s location offers easy access to sandy beaches, rocky alcoves, and nearby landmarks like Lake Vouliagmeni and the Temple of Poseidon, making it a perfect blend of urban and coastal experiences.
3. Interiors That Celebrate Greek Craftsmanship
Inside, Ace Athens is a love letter to Greek craftsmanship. From the striking Dionysos marble reception desk, with its bold green veining, to textured plaster walls and handwoven textiles, the hotel incorporates locally sourced materials that ground its modern design in Greek tradition. ciguë’s minimalist yet warm approach is complemented by furnishings sourced by Back to the Future, whose vintage finds—like safari chairs and Max Sauze lighting—add layers of character. The hotel’s interiors reflect a thoughtful balance of natural textures, muted tones, and bespoke details, creating an atmosphere of understated luxury.
4. Art at Every Turn
Art is not an afterthought at Ace Athens; it’s woven into the very fabric of the hotel. The curated art program showcases works by some of Greece’s most exciting contemporary artists, including Panos Profitis, who created both the mythology-inspired harpy sconces in the guest rooms and the seabird murals that adorn the pool-facing facade. The public spaces feature vibrant pieces like Theo Michael’s kaleidoscopic mosaic at the pool bar, a playful nod to Mediterranean colors and culture, and The Callas’ tapestry in the lobby, which captures the DIY punk spirit of modern Athens. These works, along with many others, make Ace Athens a living gallery of Greece’s creative renaissance.
5. The Lobby: A Stylish and Welcoming Hub
he light-filled lobby is the heart of Ace Athens, blending soaring ceilings, natural materials, and curated art to create a space that feels both grand and inviting. Guests are greeted by a Dionysos marble front desk, behind which hangs a hand-beaded tapestry designed by Ogust Studio and Alexandros Ntouras, welcoming visitors with the phrase “ΚΑΛΩΣ ΤΟΥΣ” (Greek for “a joyful welcome”). The lobby is furnished with a mix of custom pieces and vintage finds, like the iconic ‘Le Bugie’ lounge chairs by Alessandro Becchi and striking rugs in custom colorways. Sculptural works by Despina Charitonidi and photographs by Alexandra Masmanidi add layers of artistic intrigue, while the Good Chemistry Café offers artisanal coffee and light bites, making the lobby a space to linger and connect.
6. A Poolside Paradise Inspired by the 1970s
The Swim Club channels the carefree glamour of the 1970s Mediterranean with its clean lines, earthy tones, and playful design elements. The pool area features custom-designed loungers, striped cushions, and cabanas surrounded by lush greenery. Finnish designer Eero Aarnio’s Rattan Mushrooms add a whimsical touch, while the mosaic-tiled pool bar, framed by rattan bamboo panels, invites guests to sip cocktails in style. The design pays homage to Greece’s beach culture while adding a contemporary edge that feels quintessentially Ace.
7. Guest Rooms That Blur the Line Between Art and Comfort
Guest rooms at Ace Athens are serene, artful retreats that combine functionality with beauty. Cantilevered balconies extend each room, inviting in the sea breeze and natural light. Inside, custom green marble vanities by ciguë and circular hemp rugs inspired by Glyfada’s coastline create a sense of place. Art adorns the walls, including pieces by Alekos Fassianos and Eleni Psyllaki, while textiles by Greek-Egyptian designer Salma Barakat add texture and warmth. Each room feels like a curated gallery, offering guests a tranquil escape infused with local artistry.
8. Thoughtful Collaborations Define Every Detail
Ace Athens thrives on collaboration, bringing together creative talents to craft a cohesive and inspired space. Vintage furniture stylists Back to the Future sourced one-of-a-kind pieces from across Greece, while Athens-based studio Ogust designed the custom typography and signage, drawing inspiration from local graffiti and street culture. These partnerships ensure that every element, from furnishings to wayfinding, reflects the cultural richness of Athens.
9. A Rooftop Oasis With Stunning Views
The soon-to-open rooftop promises to be a highlight of the Ace Athens experience. Featuring a pool, bar, and restaurant, the rooftop will offer panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and surrounding mountains. With its elevated design and serene atmosphere, it’s set to become one of the most sought-after spots on the Riviera, perfect for sunset drinks or a leisurely swim.
10. A Vibrant Reflection of Athens’ Creative Spirit
Ace Hotel Athens is more than a place to stay—it’s a celebration of Athens’ artistic and cultural renaissance. From the vibrant public spaces to the thoughtfully curated guest rooms, every detail reflects the city’s rich history and dynamic present. Whether you’re admiring the art, relaxing at the Swim Club, or exploring the Riviera, Ace Athens offers an experience that’s as inspiring as it is luxurious.
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Ace Hotel Athens is a testament to the power of design, art, and collaboration. It’s a destination where tradition meets innovation, creating a unique space that captures the essence of the Athens Riviera. Whether you’re a design aficionado, an art lover, or simply in search of a memorable getaway, Ace Athens is a must-visit.
Photo Credits: DePasquale+Maffini
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TheHotelTrotter.com is curated by greek journalist and fanatic hotel lover Eleni Stasinopoulou. With the eye of a fashion and lifestyle editor, Eleni hopes to inspire all connoisseurs of traveling, focusing on stylish hotel moments around the globe.
