Semiramis, Karim Rashid’s first hotel project, is a fusion of Rashid’s influence and owner Dakis Joannou’s vision and own dedication to the modern art world. Mr. Joannou, an eminent collector, patron of modern art and qualified architect, commissioned Karim Rashid to create a hotel that will offer more than extra bed space in Athens.

The Semiramis is an intimate hotel that focuses on positive energy, heightened experiences, culture, art, and design. It is a place for new contemporary experiences, to enjoy, work, and relax in a truly memorable way. The 52-room hotel, designed by Karim Rashid, will be Athens' design-inspired hotel, offering a new intimate alternative to modern travelers.

Located in the affluent and leafy suburb of Kifissia, Semiramis is in the heart of evolving Athens, surrounded by high-end boutiques, restaurants, and cafes. Set 340 meters above sea level, the hotel offers an oasis from the humidity of central Athens.

Visiting guests will have the chance to experience a 21st-century creation: from the curve in a desk to the light-box installation behind the beds, Semiramis combines art with bricks and mortar. Comfort and functionality rank high in the design brief and the hotel will offer the complete gamut of services.

Industrial designer Karim Rashid was commissioned by Dakis Joannou to design and create Athens' first visionary design hotel.

Rashid has executed his career in reverse. Rashid made his name with a $4.99 plastic bin. It was called The Garbo and since it appeared in shops in 1999, three million people have bought it. Over the past decade, he has produced perfume bottles (Issey Miyake), light fixtures, furniture (Oh Chair), vases, mouse pads, soap dishes, salad servers, lighters, kettles, coat hangers, and coffee cups.

Rashid's design philosophy stems from a refusal to accept the day-to-day environment with a belief that there is always room for improvement and the updating of design. Karim Rashid Inc. projects include furniture, installations, lighting and product designs for clients, gallery shows, exhibitions, and museums.

His client list spans the designer goods globe from Armani, Prada, and Ralph Lauren to Sony, Zanotta, and Villeroy & Boch. He has contributed to a number of design books including his own, published in 2001, called Karim Rashid: I Want to Change the World.



   

   

www.semiramisathens.com