Designer Simone Menassè applies his distinct style to a newly opened lifestyle space in Rome where Greek elements take centre stage.In Greek,‘naos’is the word that describes the innermost part of a temple; the most sacred space where a god resides. A word that suggests intimacy and quiet contemplation,it aptly inspired a recently opened Greek restaurant-cum-bar and creative space of the same name, nestled in the Ponte Milvio neighbourhood of Rome.

As one of the latest projects conceived by architect Simone Menassè,Naos exudes his signature design touch characterised by an earthy palette, impeccably crafted furnishings,and a nod to the past that is deftly reinterpreted for the present. 

Housed in a former warehouse, which had been previously used to store electrical equipment, a vast skylight dominates the central lounge area–bathing the space in natural light.Here,a custom-made DJ wood console,softly rounded sofas and vintage Kangaroo chairs by Pierre Jeanneret tone down the stark,bare-cement edges of the building’s brutalist silhouette.

Versatile and multi-faceted, Naos’offer is wide-ranging: visitors enjoy brunch while listening to jazz; visit the art exhibition of the moment; or shop the unique decorative accents that fill the vast, open-plan space.Outside, a spacious terrace offers views of the cityscape that unfolds beneath it. Here,low-lying chairs and sofas sculpted of travertine offer an intimate setting for open-air evenings spent beneath the camphor trees.