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Description

Crystal Spot is located in the historic centre of Ioannina, occupying a prominent corner site with frontage on three pedestrian streets, its main façade facing Krystalli Street, just a short distance from the Ioannina Castle and the city's lakeside.

The surrounding area is of exceptional architectural significance, having long been one of the city's most important commercial districts. It remains a defining landmark of Ioannina, with many of its buildings officially designated as listed heritage properties. Traditionally, these buildings were designed for mixed use, with retail spaces on the ground floor and residential accommodation above—a character that continues to define the area today.

The architectural concept of Crystal Spot was developed around the creation of a distinctive contemporary building while maintaining complete respect for the listed building located within the site and the surrounding historic urban fabric.

Responding to the diverse architectural styles of the neighbouring buildings, the design successfully combines traditional architecture with contemporary construction. After carefully considering the architectural, morphological, and functional characteristics of the surrounding streetscape, the building was conceived as two distinct architectural volumes connected by a continuous central core accommodating the lift shaft and all major building services. This central spine organizes the entire structure, allowing the available space to be used efficiently while creating a clear architectural identity.

To strengthen the commercial presence of the development and establish a visual dialogue with the surrounding heritage buildings, the ground and first floors were designed as a unified architectural composition. Decorative detailing around the external openings, inspired by neoclassical architecture, complements the traditional urban character while allowing greater natural light and increased visual openness along the surrounding pedestrian streets, creating an elegant and imposing façade.

The ground floor and first floor accommodate the commercial component of the development, comprising retail and office spaces that continue the architectural language of the historic neighbourhood.

The upper section of the building, consisting of the second floor, third floor, and pitched roof, adopts a contemporary architectural expression. The second floor accommodates two residential apartments, while the third floor comprises a full-floor residence connected internally to the attic level via a private staircase.

These two architectural identities are seamlessly integrated into a single building that respects the planning requirements and heritage restrictions of the historic centre while expressing a contemporary architectural vision that bridges the city's past and future.

The building benefits from two independent entrances located on separate streets. The retail premises are accessed directly from Krystalli Street, while the residential and office areas are accessed from Koletti Street. This arrangement improves functionality, facilitates circulation, and ensures full accessibility through the incorporation of ramps for people with reduced mobility, as well as convenient access for service and emergency vehicles.

Constructed to the highest modern energy-efficiency standards, Crystal Spot combines architectural elegance with advanced building performance, making it one of the most distinctive contemporary buildings in the historic centre of Ioannina. Its quality and functionality led to the relocation of several municipal services to the building, while its presence has contributed significantly to the revitalisation of the surrounding area. Today, Crystal Spot serves as a contemporary urban landmark, enhancing commercial activity, supporting the local community, and enriching the city's architectural identity.