On arrival, we were struck by the neoclassical building from the 1920s. 10 Mantzarou Street could easily have become yet another faceless luxury hotel, but the team behind Shila spared it that fate; the house is a piece of history. The moment you step inside its bohemian rooms, you realize this sanctuary is deeply woven into the life of the neighborhood. Shila is not just a hotel but a meeting place and a vibrant part of the local art and design scene.
So who are the individuals behind this project?
There is the Greek photographer and creative Eftihia Stefanidi, who doubles as Shila’s art director. Formerly with the London entertainment company Secret Cinema, she is a cosmopolitan nomad who has traveled the world collecting ideas and inspiration for the art of living.
There is Shai Antebi, a New York-based entrepreneur with a penchant for architectural design, travel and genuine hospitality. His passion for simplicity and natural materials is reflected throughout Shila.
And there is Anna Bonnet, a French-born interior designer who has worked on projects in places like Mexico City and New York. Having trained with local craftsmen around the world, she has mastered refined techniques that clearly set her interiors apart.
Precious brocades and velvets draped over daybeds are just some of the rich details you will find at Shila. We especially loved the traditional lounge furniture, made by a Greek family woodworking business founded in 1920, and the little swing in the shower of one of the bathrooms.
Each suite has its own coffee maker and a generous supply of award-winning beans from ANANA, roasted right here in Athens.
Shila has six spacious suites, two on each floor, which can be connected if needed.
On the ground floor are two garden suites whose “floating” four-poster beds create a sense of calm. On the next floor up, fine-art photography and 1960s furnishings lend a masculine nonchalance, while the suites on the top floor glow with Cuban-inspired light.
Most important: during our stay, we forgot we were in a hotel. It felt like a beautiful home we wished we could call our own.
Culinary
There is no restaurant, but breakfast, made with local ingredients such as rare honey from the remote island of Kimolos, is brought to your suite at the time you choose. There is also a fabulous rooftop garden where guests can mingle with locals over drinks in a very relaxed atmosphere.
THE DISTRICT
Shila is in the heart of Kolonaki, where big labels have made room for young Greek designers and plenty of interesting galleries. Kolonaki Square remains a hub of Greece’s famous café culture, where iced coffee is sipped for hours. And the Acropolis is within walking distance.
Ideal for
All visitors to Athens, travelers on a stopover and lovers of old bohemian movies.
Prices
Suites from about 250 euros per night, usually including breakfast.
Booking & Contact
Shila Athens
Mantzarou 10
106 72 Athens
Greece
