Creative travel and cultural inspiration in Athens
Athens apartments
creativity
experimenting

Creative Travel in Athens: Inspiration All Year Round

Renovating The Halo Collection: Creativity All Year Round

I just discovered January was “International Creativity Month.” It’s a bit late now, but hey, I’m all for inspiration. Honestly, after renovating The Halo Collection in Athens, I believe it’s a wonderful idea. It gives people a timeline to let their imagination run wild and use their creative abilities. But, while the calendar might say creativity gets one month, I’d like to see it turn into a year-round lifestyle. Discovering your potential every day makes more sense than limiting it to one month.

From Comfort Zone to Creative Thinking Outside the Box

Admittedly, refurbishing our three elegant Athens apartments and house was challenging enough, but it did open a whole new world of self-discovery. The experience taught me to think outside the box instead of staying in my comfort zone. But that’s the beauty of creativity. It isn't about producing a masterpiece; it's about dropping inhibitions, connecting with emotions, and stepping away from your usual routine.

Designing Cozy Retreats That Feel Like Home

When it came to The Hive, The Hill, and Silk House, I experimented with ideas that would make each stay feel more memorable. I tested bold concepts, blended textures, and tried out different soft fabrics. I also moved furniture an inch this way and an inch that way. Every choice, from the color of the paint to the type of light fixtures, felt like I was discovering something new. I didn't just want "vacation" getaways. I wanted welcoming retreats where guests could kick off their shoes, relax, and feel at home.

If you’re planning a trip to Athens and want to unlock your own creativity, book a stay at The Halo Collection. There’s no expiry date on self-discovery in Greece!

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singapore
athens
culture
Sharona Hurmuses
April 29, 2026

Moving from Singapore to Athens at 59: A New Way to See City Life

I watched cars inside a roundabout stop to let entering traffic through. The opposite of every road rule I'd ever known. I waited for the chaos. It never...

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Neoclassical
Metaxourgeio
Silk House
Sharona Hurmuses
April 24, 2026

Silk House – A 1930s Neoclassical Residence in Metaxourgeio, Athens

Silk House is the third residence in The Halo Collection, a lovingly restored 1930s neoclassical home in Metaxourgeio, Athens. I'm incredibly happy...

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Kypseli    |    Lycabettus    |    Metaxourgeio

Signature Residences

Explore three boutique residences across Kypseli, Lycabettus and Metaxourgeio, each shaped by its neighbourhood and designed to offer a distinct way to experience Athens.

The Hive

Vintage Charm
Urban Energy

Boutique Apartment in Kypseli

Athens

A warm, design-led apartment in Kypseli, one of Athens’ most vibrant neighbourhoods, close to local cafés, culture and everyday city life.

The Hill

Quiet & Cozy
Cocoon-like Escape

Apartment near Lycabettus

Athens

A calm apartment near Lycabettus Hill, designed for guests who want a quieter Athens stay close to the city centre, scenic viewpoints and local dining.

The Silk House

Historic Soul
City Energy

Neoclassical House in Metaxourgeio

Athens

A restored 1930s neoclassical house in Metaxourgeio, blending original architectural character with modern comfort in one of Athens’ most creative neighbourhoods.

Guest stays in Athens

Guest Reviews

A collection of real guest reviews from recent stays across our boutique homes in Athens, sharing what guests loved about the comfort, design, locations and thoughtful details.

Rachel

" We had such a lovely stay at the Hill. It’s incredibly neat and well organised, all you need is present at the apartment. We walked up the hill in the morning for a beautiful view over the city and if you’re looking for a nice place to spend an evening nearby, Jazz in Jazz is recommended! "

Anastasia

" Very nice , good communication and will recommend 100% "

Steve

" So much more than a “cold” rental , Sergei & Jeff actually provide a home with everything you need for a perfect stay. "

Irina

" My stay in this apartment was absolutely wonderful! It’s perfect for solo travelers as well as couples—spacious, comfortable, and furnished with high-quality pieces. The designer who arranged the apartment clearly has exceptional taste and a real love for detail; every element feels thoughtfully chosen. "

Herodotos

" Excellent location, very comfortable with all the convenient amenities and facilities available "

Kyriakos

" It was a great option, real value for money! "

Larry Oliver

" I stayed at the Hive for 1 week and found it to be amazingly comfortable. It is very quiet, private, secure and beautifully furnished. It has all the amenities anyone would need for either a short or long stay. It is in a very interesting area of Athens with welcoming restaurants within walking distance. "

Roy Verboeket

" We stayed at the Hive last year and I can only give it 5 stars. Jeff and Sharona have really done an amazing job renovating this place and Kypseli really surprised us. Vibrant community, lots of great restaurants, parks and coffeehouses in the area. "

Mark Looram

" We stayed at this recently renovated gem in Athens and loved it! The art deco entrance and common area was magical and the marble stairs made us feel like royalty when we entered. The flat was spacious and bright  tastefully designed by a professional interest designer. "

Marek Wasilewski

" We had a truly five-star experience staying in Kypseli. The area is vibrant, authentic, and full of character, with fantastic cafés, bakeries, and local shops just steps away. Everything felt convenient and walkable, and getting to all the major tourist attractions was easy thanks to great public transport links nearby. "

Matthew Hopton

" Incredible cozy apartment. Very clean and quiet, great amenities. A quick walk into the heart of the city. Great food and coffee all around. Beautifully furnished with a great balcony. Perfect place to stay with a family or a group of friends. Open concept is ideal for hosting. 10/10. "
@thehalocollection

Follow us on instagram

Follow The Halo Collection on Instagram for a closer look at our Athens residences, local neighbourhoods, design details and everyday moments from Jeff and Sharona.