The design of educational buildings in Europe typically emphasizes functional clarity, transparency, and integration with the surrounding environment. These buildings aim to reflect the values of art, research, and scientific inquiry, contributing to societal improvement. This new building project for a neighborhood in Limassol, near its historic center, follows these principles while adapting to the local climate and context.
The design is guided by three main principles: integratingthe building into its neighborhood, creating a simple and functional structurethat fosters community, and emphasizing sustainability through bioclimaticdesign. The building’s form is minimalist, serving as a container for dynamiccreative and research activities. Its flexible layout allows for futureadaptability, while the use of simple materials, like exposed concrete and ametal mesh skin, enhances energy efficiency through shading and ventilation.
A key feature is the internal "street" or linear atrium, inspired by the public spaces of the historic city center. This coveredspace serves as a hub of interaction, encouraging the exchange of ideas amongstudents and faculty. Surrounding this central axis, the building is organizedinto rectangular volumes that adjust in height to harmonize with neighboringstructures, creating a dynamic, recognizable skyline.
The project also incorporates green spaces, with plantedterraces that integrate nature into the building and the cityscape. Thesouthern façade is designed with open verandas for student relaxation, whereclimbing plants will gradually cover the structure, blending it into theenvironment. The proposal promotes both internal and external transparency,connecting the building to its surroundings and ensuring it adapts toLimassol’s climate while supporting the collaborative and creative spirit of aneducational institution.
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Architectural Design: PETRAS Architecture and FereosArchitects LLC
Design Team PETRAS: Tsampikos Petras
Design Team Fereos Architects LLC: Pavlos Fereos
Collaborating Architects: -
Structural Design: preliminary study
MEP Design: preliminary study
Interior Design: preliminary study
Commission: Competition | 1st Prize
Client: TEPAK Cyprus University of Technology
Status: Unbuilt
Plot Area: 3.000 sq.m
Building Area: 7.500 m2 sq.m
Estimated Budget: not available
Timeline: 2024