Μultilayered square in Fira, Santorini

Students: Vassilaki Pinelopi, Verteouri Anastasia, Chazapi Anna
Professor: Stavridis Stavros
School of Architecture, National Technical University of Athens
Presentation Date : July 18^th,  2012

This dissertation focuses on a network of open spaces and multiple functions at the center of Fira. This proposal attempts to link the two conflicting sides of the town: the cosmopolitan cliff side and the neglected residential area that serves as the "backyard".

Santorini is a destination that has international appeal attracting people from all over the world. The settlement of Fira, being the island's capital is an iconic, densely build tourist attraction with a distinct traditional character in an unusual volcanic landscape. In this architecturally saturated environment we identify the latent potential of public spaces, attempting to mend the fragmented urban tissue.

By studying scale and size, the relationship between public and private spaces and the current functions in these two areas we acquire valuable information so as to achieve a connection between these regions and thus restore τhe relationship between:

1. public space and its users
2. locals and tourists

Creating this network we assign new features to open spaces that currently remain unused. This enables the tourist to inhabit the town's "backyard" and gives locals the opportunity to experience public space more effectively.

The backbone-axis of the multilayered square organizes the basic functions through a system of spatial folds. The island's urban and natural vocabulary thus translates to the interweaving of open and enclosed spaces.

The main pedestrian route that follows the central axis descends from the tourist part of the town and sinking beneath the main road meets a tourist information kiosk. Then it passes through an exhibition area focused on the history of Fira, exits and continues in the residential part of the town.  This route is framed by a system of walkways, plazas and additional uses such as a wine-tasting bar, a winery and a cafe.