Centre of mountain culture in Karpenissi

Student : Tourlomousi Olga 
Professor : K. Moraitis, G. Giannitsaris
Consultans : K. Karadimas, G. Tripodakis
Dissertation Thesis at the National Technical University of Athens School of Architecture
Presentation Date : July 2010

BRIEF DESCRIPTION:  The Center, seeks to highlight the nature of the mountain place and mountain culture.  The format of this place is characterised by the extensive forestcover of the mountains and the natural beauty. The aim of the design proposal, is to interpret the topography of the terrain and the specificity of the conditions imposed by the climate, in order to join the building with the environment and ultimately to party with it.

Original idea in the study of the diplomatic project was the design of a building that respects the environment, in a place that can be changed as a result of the climate conditions.

For this purpose, the study area that was chosen is Karpenissi. This region is characterized by extensive forest cover of the mountains volumes and lush due to climate variations. Due to the high altitude, the climate of this area is similar to the climate of greek regions in north, and depending on the season, the color of the environment is either the Green of the natural vegetation or the White of the snow.

The site is chosen 5 km away from the town of Karpenissi. It is located on the slope of Prophet Elias hills on 1.380 meters and dominates the town, which is situated at an altitude of 800 m. It has a prominent view of the broader region, the mountains, the nature, the ski centre and the city.

After research of the needs of the city, came up the functional program. Karpenissi relies on tourism, especially on conference and on alternative forms of tourism. This fact coupled with the natural beauty and rich folk tradition, justify the design of a building which aims to raise the status of the mountain place and mountain culture. The functional program includes spaces of periodic and permanent exhibition, conventional space for 200 people, café-restaurant, and a hostel of 12 hostels, total surface area 2000 sq. m. The building accommodates both tourist activities, and the need for additional space for the city for organizing events. Basic aim is the development and visibility of the place.

The climate, namely the frequent rain, snow, wind and the topography of the ground defined the design proposal.

It is proposed a roofed movement in which alternate open and enclosed spaces. During the animation inside the building, the Walker can read the mountainous landscape through extended openings.