At Phāea Blue, our dedication to art and craftsmanship is woven into the fabric of the guest experience. We have collaborated with some of Greece’s most talented artisans and designers, blending luxurious textures with locally handcrafted details. Each piece has its own story, from renowned ceramicists and marble ateliers to the intricate handwoven textiles.
The Benaki Museum Collaboration
Our collaboration with the Benaki Museum has brought to life a curated collection for our renovated lobby, featuring handcrafted pieces sourced from Greek artisans.
These exceptional works bridge Greece’s rich history with modern sophistication. From the lobby library to coffee tables, art becomes an integral part of the guest experience—like enjoying coffee beside a ceramic horse statuette inspired by the late Geometric period of the 8th century. Each detail connects past and present, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the beauty and timeless elegance of Greek craftsmanship.
*Guests can also explore and purchase exclusive items from the Benaki Shop corner in our retail space.
These exceptional works bridge Greece’s rich history with modern sophistication. From the lobby library to coffee tables, art becomes an integral part of the guest experience—like enjoying coffee beside a ceramic horse statuette inspired by the late Geometric period of the 8th century. Each detail connects past and present, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the beauty and timeless elegance of Greek craftsmanship.
*Guests can also explore and purchase exclusive items from the Benaki Shop corner in our retail space.
Bringing Heritage to Life in Our Spaces
We are honored to incorporate handwoven textiles crafted by the grandmother of our owners, Agapi Sbokou. These timeless pieces carry the warmth of generations, blending personal heritage with Cretan tradition to bring a uniquely authentic touch to our spaces. Each textile tells a story—of skill passed down through hands that cherished the art of weaving, of colors and patterns inspired by the land, and of a culture that celebrates beauty in every detail.
Philippos Theodorides: Art That Inspires
Award-winning illustrator Philippos Theodorides has infused Phāea Blue with his signature mural paintings. Featured in spaces like the Island Luxury Suites and Phāea Blue Villa, his art transforms walls into vibrant narratives, weaving stories of culture, charm, and contemporary design.
Melina Xenaki: Stories in Clay
Renowned ceramicist Melina Xenaki brings ancient Greek artistry to life with her handcrafted creations, which can be found throughout Phāea Blue, including the lobby and guest rooms. Her pieces, inspired by Crete’s rich cultural tapestry, blend timeless tradition with modern elegance. Among them is a bespoke ceramic bowl, custom-designed exclusively for the hotel, adding a unique touch to the experience."
Anthologist by Andria Mitsakos: Curated Sophistication
Anthologist, led by Andria Mitsakos, offers a thoughtful blend of modern and traditional design. Exclusive pieces displayed in the Anthós restaurant, including artisanal ceramics and brass objects, celebrate Greek craftsmanship, creating a refined and inviting atmosphere.
Kallia Panopoulou: Inspired by the Sea
Kallia Panopoulou’s ceramics echo the natural beauty of the ocean, featuring organic forms and textures inspired by the seabed. Her stunning pieces, such as the Cynarina Blue Vase and Crinoid Vases, grace the lobby, creating a serene and harmonious ambiance that reflects Greece’s marine heritage.
Onentropy: Marble Reimagined
The innovative marble atelier Onentropy transforms this iconic Greek material into contemporary art. Their sculptural works, showcased in the lobby, reveal marble’s versatility, balancing strength with delicate design. Onentropy’s creations redefine luxury with their imaginative take on traditional stonecraft.
Nisaki Mu: Colors & Emotions in Ceramics
Inspired by Greek folk art and ancient civilizations, Corina's 'Nisaki mu' ceramics bring an authentic touch to the dining experience at Anthós restaurant. Her creations, reflecting the island’s nature, sea, and mountains, are infused with the spirit of Crete. A highlight is the handmade ceramic 'Gamopilafo' dish, a tribute to local cuisine and a symbol of the restaurant."
Crete Ceramics: Crafting Tradition with Passion
The art of pottery in Crete has deep roots, with Thrapsano, a small village in the Heraklion region, playing a significant role in preserving this ancient craft. Once home to 150 workshops until the 1970s, pottery from Thrapsano has long been a vital part of the local economy. Today, the tradition continues, with clay sourced just outside the village, and each handmade piece on display across the hotel is a testament to this age-old craft. These terracotta creations, born from the earth, represent a harmonious relationship with nature, reminding us of the deep connection between humans and their surroundings. Functional and decorative, they bring the spirit of Crete into our spaces, adding a timeless touch to the hotel’s ambiance.
