Recently opened Paramythi Cafe Bar, which is located in Athen’s Nea Smirni Square has been shortlisted for the International Design & Architecture Awards 2013.

Paramythi, which in Greek means fairytale is a project by Architect and Interior Designers Dimitris Economou. He and his team describe the project as, ‘a playful cafe-bar’ which follows an imaginative storytelling theme with a series of little intrigues and design elements to help generate a sense of intimacy and reignite those childhood magical moments.

A favourite element is the set of swings that greet customers as they enter the cafe bar. They may choose to enjoy coffee or read a book while swinging from their seats, or rest their imaginations upon the wall of vintage books suspended vertically from the ceiling.

The selection of materials is a correlation between raw industrial materials with a touch of rustic warmth. Aztec, tribal patterns in fancy table printings, fill the upper level adding a splash of color and life to the space. Dimitris Economou used his cut out wood furniture in chevrons and ovals to provide both functionality and an elegant touch.