Participation in the Architectural Design Competition for the Construction of a wooden deck on the Old Waterfront of Thessaloniki
The main focus of this study is to develop and reconstruct a large area of the coastal front in the historic center of Thessaloniki, connecting the Port with the White Tower Square and the New Waterfront. The aim of this project is to upgrade the functional and aesthetic qualities of the intervention area, and to enhance its importance as a hyperlocal attraction. In addition, the project has broader social, architectural, urban planning, symbolic, and environmental significance, and its characteristics, such as function, volume, and position, will impact the structured and natural environment of the city.
The ultimate goal of this project is to unify and modernize the design of the coastal front of the urban area of Thessaloniki by connecting the New Waterfront with the A’ Pier of the port. By doing so, the entire length of the coastal front will be completed, and the intervention area will have upgraded qualitative and functional characteristics.
The study involves extending the existing retaining wall of the Old Waterfront by implementing a gentle and reversible wooden structure/deck on piles.
The study involves extending the existing retaining wall of the Old Waterfront by implementing a gentle and reversible wooden structure/deck on piles. This proposal entails designing a “deck” on piles with a wooden structure that will continue from the existing retaining wall. The deck will be divided into “bridges” in certain positions, enabling pedestrians to move smoothly and safely. Furthermore, it will provide opportunities to stop and enjoy the view, as well as for small-scale commercial activities to be developed. The project, completed with special lighting and the necessary equipment, will preserve the character and historical features of the Old Beach, while at the same time it will be a privileged meeting place of the city with the water, an “exterior” of social contact and recreation, which today the historic center absolutely needs.
The proposed project is in harmony with the strategic planning of the Municipality of Thessaloniki, the main axes of which include the optimization of the quality of life of the citizen and the upgrading of the urban environment, while it is included in the proposed interventions in the approved Sustainable Urban Mobility of Thessalonikis.