Cookoovaya is a restaurant located in Athens, Greece, known for its contemporary approach to Greek cuisine.

“Cookoovaya” derives from the Greek word “κουκουβάγια,” which means “owl.” The owl is often associated with wisdom and knowledge, which could be reflective of the restaurant’s approach to food and culinary expertise. To enhance this special identity, the basic design principle of its interior space and ambience was composed by subtle references and design elements inspired by the characteristics and specific features of this bird. At the same time, influences from the Athenian modern art and the values of minimalism, geometricity and abstraction came to complement and enrich the primary idea.

The restaurant’s spatial organization features distinct dining areas, each offering a unique experience while maintaining a cohesive atmosphere. The entrance provides a white, spacious, airy, and high interior dominated by a big geometrical sculpture. Its basic pattern, which is also found in other parts of the interior, has arisen from the owl’s ability to rotate its head 270 degrees.  Natural materials, wood, fabric and travertino marble, evoking a sense of warmth. Large windows and ample lighting contribute to a bright atmosphere. An archway leads to the «heart» of the restaurant, where the open kitchen and the bar with its organic design are organized, and an inverted arch above it offers framed views to the cozy mezzanine. The larger arch then ends to an area that refers to a patio with its large black windows, which allow natural light to flood the space during the day. The use of successive arches emphasizes depth and enhance the perspectives of the space while conceptually is connected to the unique structure and function of an owl’s eye.

The lighting scheme is carefully curated to provide various qualities, such as move, reflections and a warm and inviting glow to the diners below. The blue hues refer to the sea and were selected carefully to evoke feelings of tranquility, depth, and sophistication, resonating with the owl-inspired theme, and further enhancing the connection to the restaurant’s name and identity.