Presentation models in concrete
Split & Offset
Housing complex in Athens, Greece2-semester, Universidade Autónoma de Lisboa 2018
The project is an apartment building on the corner of Iraklidon and Dimofontos streets in Athens, Greece. The proposal is an apartment building of two offset volumes joined by a central staircase. The program is compact: a mix of several apartment types and a commercial space on the ground floor. There is parking in the basement.
The goal is to amend the existing corner condition while maintaining the character of the neighbourhood. Currently, the site is an empty lot, abandoned and overgrown with plants.
I used AutoCAD for the project. Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign for the illustrations.
Analysis and Process
Athen’s unique housing typology, Polykatoikia, is a result of the legal conditions and the need for rapid development in the 20th century. Due to the economic downturn, many of the street level shops stand empty.
Iraklidon street has an arcade system with a generous setback and shading to the pedestrians. The typical Polykatoikia have plenty of balcony space, shaded by parasols which add to the distinct style in the city.
After a trip to Athens, a model of the neighbourhood allowed the simulation of the environment and typified the balcony and parasol adorn the facade.
Strategy
The buildings on each corner of Iraklidon and Dimofontos has a common nook re-affirmed by the two volumes.
The cement panel cladding system is a radical but appropriate change to the neighbourhood, where derelict and misuse are rampant. Wooden slats provide shading and privacy while allowing airflow.
The apartments follow contemporary living with plenty of natural lighting to the common rooms and kitchens. The plans, materials, and shading system takes into account the climate in Athens, Greece.
