Thessaloniki, Greece, 1997-1998


The principal of unifying public use and restoring the continuity of space defined the strategy for the East Cultural Metropolitan Axis, a straight line linking significant public use buildings and areas. Spaces around the three gates are configured with generous geometrical lines as hard piazzas, through the dynamic yet harmonic juxtaposition of marble pedestals, water fountains, green carpets, stone walls, and cast concrete, while incorporating architectural elements and artwork from the 60s. The three gates are trapezoid, prismatic volumes made of iron with a central opening as passage point. Their sides converge upwards and they are covered with perforated copper. The sensation of solidity and transparency constantly changes according to varying lighting conditions.

Location: Helexpo International Fairgrounds (Thessaloniki) / Architectural Design: K. Tsigarida, A. Skouvaklis, N. Kalogirou / Collaborators: C. Christodoulou, C. Tangos, M. Chronaki, A. Tantsis, M. Terzidou, N. Ballios / Construction Management: Domotechniki SA / Engineer in charge: R. Donas / Design: 1996 / Construction: 1999 / Total area: 10 Ha / Urban regeneration area of Helexpo fairgrounds- 2.8 Ha / Gate 1-1000 m2 / Gate 2-800 m2 / Gate 3-1100 m2 / Photos: I. Duennebier, A. Giacumacatos