Plaka is the old historical neighbourhood of Athens located on the northeast slope of the Acropolis. Its uniqueness lies in the particular combination of classical & archaeological elements and modern urban characteristics.
The 1.954 m² plot is located in the upper side of Plaka in a lively neighbourhood, where two abandoned buildings with different architectural styles are located: a building of the Neoclassical movement and one of Greek folk architecture which was constructed between 1925-1945. The project aims to the restoration and the reuse of these buildings, and to link the site with the surroundings and transform it into a new open recreational space. The activity proposed is related to music, i.e. research, creation and performance public areas. Thus, the fence is removed to enhance the public character of the concept. The main pathway in the a lot is a steep, transversal stairway, that gives the impression of a path leading to the Acropolis. Focusing on retaining the undamaged building stone shells of the existing buildings, new modern constructions made of glass and steel are designed that will not offend aesthetically and statically the existing envelopes and built environment. Since a musical scene requires larger volume compared to the one that is offered by the lot, an excavated structure is designed, to take advantage of the steep incline of the site, while respecting the small building scale of the area. Its roof offers a clear view to the site while its at the same level with the street above. Wide stadium seating tiers are installed to link the surroundings with the site where you can observe from above the performing acts.
thesis, academic – NTUA
area: 1.954 m²
location: Plaka, Athens
team: Marietta Varnava, Nota Georgelou
year: 2008
