F1 Circuit

Student :  Hatzipegiou Evita
PROFESSOR:  Tsinikas Nikolaos
Aristotle University of Thessaloniki,Faculty of Architecture
Presentation Date: 02.07.2010

Thessaloniki International F1 Circuit is located near Coronia and Volvi lakes, in northern Greece, near the city of Thessaloniki. The location seemed more convenient with regards to the initial proposal near the old airport of Athens, due to the vicinity with the "Egnatia" highway. The recently constructed highway connects the west coasts of the country with the east borders, providing easy access to the F1 Circuit especially for the contestants. The site is also supported by the city airport and also the city port, distanced only 50 klm by the Circuit.

Despite the fact that it is settled near the lakes, the site does not affect the flora and fauna of the area in and around them. The main goal by choosing this area was to reveal its natural habitat and help prevent any further desiccation of the lakes.

All in all, the aim is to create a self sufficient energy system for the needs of an annual car race event like F1 Grand Prix, situated in an eco-friendly environment, very close to the city of Thessaloniki.

The site is divided in three major sectors, according to spectators' positions. The start of the race takes place at the core of the area, under the dragonfly-shaped shelter, covered by thinfilm solar panels. The Pitstop buildings and the Main grandstands are situated beneath the shelter, in order to stay protected in case of rainfall. The solar panels also partially shade the area underneath them.

The Main grandstand area is formed in theatre boxes, supporting free movement during the race and hosts approximately 5.000 people. The theatre boxes are divided in seven different levels, all providing perfect view to race lane and pit lane as well. Underneath the theatre boxes there is a two-story building. The first story hosts a medical centre for emergency issues and other facilities, such as gift and book stores, info points and toilet rooms. The second story provides restaurant facilities for 500 providing a great view to the lakes. A broadcasting centre is also hosted in the second story. The restaurant is connected to the theatre boxes with elevators, reaching the fifth level (+10.00m.). Both restaurant and theatre boxes are fully supported by electrical equipment for physically disabled people.

There are 30 Pitstop buildings sized 12m x 20m. They are used for tires' change since 2010. Each one of them provides restaurant facilities in the first story, for the needs of team personnel and V.I.P. and holds equipment for other car or motorcycle races. Every restaurant has a video wall, transmitting the race.

The general admission grandstands host 23.000 spectators, whilst the hill stand area has a major capacity of 166.000 people. The site is supported by a road, tram and a pedestrian network, whereas it is fully equipped by electrical facilities for physically disabled people.