The Concept: A Vertical Extension of Athens’ Diverse Landscape
In the heart of Athens, on the site of the former international airport, Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG) is redefining urban living with this towering project. This 50-meter structure serves as a key feature in The Ellinikon project, anchoring the residential neighborhood of Little Athens. With 88 homes, each equipped with private gardens, it offers panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and the Attican mountains.
Hanna Johansson, Associate in Charge at BIG, highlights the project’s unique opportunity. “We engage both individual home intimacy and city-scale complexity simultaneously,” she says, capturing the essence as a cornerstone for housing innovation in Athens.
A Cascade of Homes Amidst Sea and Mountains
This development bridges two stunning landscapes—the expansive Aegean Sea and the rugged Attican mountains. The building’s silhouette mirrors this natural duality with its stepped, cascading balconies. “The site’s openness, framed by sea and mountains, informed our design approach,” Johansson explains. This concept transforms traditional notions of Athenian balconies into a vertical garden landscape.
Breaking Tradition: Rethinking Urban Density with This Landmark Development
The architectural innovation goes beyond aesthetics; it reimagines urban density. Curved façades soften the building’s profile, harking back to classical Greek elements. Inside, residences vary from one to five bedrooms, boasting floor-to-ceiling windows. Communal amenities include fitness spaces, a 20-meter indoor pool, and shared gardens.
Ground-level pathways connect residents to the Metropolitan Park and the tram line, reinforcing the narrative of density enhancing quality of life, rather than hindering it. “Shared spaces create community,” Johansson remarks, underlining the project’s holistic urban living approach. This development continues to push boundaries in urban design.
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Sustainability: A Visible and Tangible Commitment
With ambitions for LEED Gold certification, the structure is designed with sustainability in mind. Yet, as Johansson points out, it’s about more than meeting standards. “Sustainability should be visible and enjoyable,” she insists. Photovoltaic panels, integrated greenery, and energy-efficient designs are integral to the building’s style, not just technical layers.
BIG envisions The Ellinikon as a beacon for innovation in Athens, bridging historical roots with forward-thinking practices. “It’s a chance to co-create a local identity that reflects both tradition and modern life,” Johansson explains, emphasizing the project’s role in positioning Athens as a leader in sustainable urban development.
Under Construction: A New Era for Athens’ Architecture
The structure continues to rise from Athens’ historical airfield, symbolizing a broader shift in architectural narrative. As the first of its kind in The Ellinikon, it represents global architectural trends meeting local tradition, promising a transformative impact on Athens’ skyline. This construction offers fresh perspectives on urban living, marrying aesthetic appeal with functionality.
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A vision for urban harmony, this landmark stands at the forefront of Athens’ architectural evolution, merging the past with contemporary innovation. This project marks a new chapter in bringing sustainable design to the city’s vibrant landscape.
Source: designboom.com
Frequently asked questions
What is the Park Rise Tower project in Athens?
The Park Rise Tower is a 50-meter structure developed by Bjarke Ingels Group as part of The Ellinikon project. It anchors the Little Athens residential neighborhood, providing 88 homes with private gardens and panoramic views.
How does the Park Rise Tower design reflect its surroundings?
The design of the Park Rise Tower reflects its surroundings by bridging the Aegean Sea and Attican mountains with a silhouette of stepped, cascading balconies. This concept transforms traditional Athenian balconies into vertical garden landscapes.
What sustainability features are included in the Ellinikon tower?
The Ellinikon tower includes sustainability features such as photovoltaic panels, integrated greenery, and energy-efficient designs. It aims for LEED Gold certification, emphasizing visible and enjoyable elements of sustainability.