At The Edge

Educational

Thessaloniki, Greece

2015

3500m2 / 37700sf

with D.Giouzepas, P.Gouliaris, K.Taousiani, I.Tsara, Y.Tsaras

At The Edge is a proposal for an elementary school which focuses on the location specifics and the existing built elements. The earth formations with the steep slope, the unique flora and vegetation and the potential of the existing structures to be adopted by the new design drive the architectural concept. The school’s building complex stands in a notable position within the urban network of Thessaloniki, in close contact with the suburban forest, with an astonishing view to the cityscape. Its concept is thus aiming to encourage contact with nature and environmental awareness.

The building is divided into three main volumes in order to naturally follow the slope of the terrain and, in this way, offer sufficient daylight, natural cross ventilation and views to the city for the classrooms and other communal areas. An open tower with a stairwell and an elevator serves as the vertical connector for the building complex which is layered in six levels. The school’s design adopts the principles of environmental design for a Mediterranean climate, reducing energy costs to a minimum and offering a pleasant and healthy environment for users and visitors.

The multipurpose space and the gym are accommodated by the same transformable space, which can host events, seminars and sport activities accordingly. The wall finish materials are absorptive and the ceiling is shaped according to the acoustic design requirements.