Public SquareUrban Planning & Design
The urban development of the settlement is characterized by a regular grid of urban interventions reflected in an interconnected structure. In contrast to the assumption of a rectangular system with strict geometries and symmetries, the topology is realized through the use of the continuous line, curves and free flows, changes and deformations that organically integrate the square (and adjacent elements) into its grid, while contributing to the efficiency of movement and the multiplication of visual alignments and intensities. The boundaries of the square are selectively dissolved in the surrounding walkways, while elements such as greenery and landscapes occupy them along with the buildings. The greenery also contributes to the microclimate and esthetic quality, while the plasticity in the composition results in elements with a sculptural character that are perceived on approach, by the adjacent buildings, but also by motorists.
Movement and stillness coexist without strictly separating frames, creating a gradual transition between them through transformations and adjustments. The square is divided into two zones that do not mark strict boundaries of separation and programmatic definition, but diffuse each other while contributing in synergy to the satisfaction of different preferences and degrees of privacy, emotions, stimuli, etc., while fulfilling communication, encounter, interaction and other needs.
The access from the top level is an open space where the carvings of the steps at a certain point (in its large opening) are transformed into places of temporary rest and relaxation. This space is a homogeneous and unified space suitable for holding events (celebrations, meetings, etc.) and where the fields of vision are extended, an active space where various functions of a social, artistic, etc. kind can take place. A sundial will be placed in a position that can be easily perceived from the access and traffic points (without blocking the latter) and that esthetically and artistically contributes to the enrichment of the square through curiosity and desire for interaction - exploration.
The second zone is a space of flow and connection, where the use of curved engravings contributes to the sense of direction and gives a particular physiognomy and identity. Along the communication axis, the white concrete wall creates temporary resting places, while at the same time, to the north and on the lowest level, there are benches suitable for resting, as wood is attached to their base and back. On the south-western side of this zone, a space with greater privacy is created, which refers to the creation of an "open living room" with benches with tables, while the placement of a tree with rich foliage at this point provides adequate and desirable shade.
In this way, an attempt has been made to create spaces that provide both encounter (emphasizing the importance of the network of human relationships and interactions) and isolation, while at the same time the transition from one to the other is gradual and fluid. Thus, the architectural composition seeks to multiply the intensities of the space in a balanced way (program density) by increasing the complexity of the form, the spatial arrangement, the different levels, the use of materials and the way they communicate both with each other and with the site. This leads to a desire for exploration and interaction while moving - transit.
Rigor and purity in the organization of the open space create conditions to orient oneself in the space and determine one's relationship to it. The use of a limited palette of materials (white cement and cast pebble floor in white-beige color) was preferred because they stand out by emphasizing their quality characteristics (in terms of esthetics, durability, application, environmental friendliness, etc.) while highlighting the architectural composition in a clear and simple way, which gives the work a homogeneity and continuity as all functions are integrated in a continuous flow. They are also in harmonious dialog with the greenery, which enhances their character by interacting with the Mediterranean light. The greenery is found in the liquefied flower beds, while the trees allow the flow of visual communication and bring out their bioclimatic character in a balanced way. The lawn together with the natural red soil are elements of the local flora.
Lighting will consist of linear and spot elements, both to highlight architectural engravings (hidden lighting along them, on benches, etc.) and to emphasize specific elements (e.g., sculptural sundial, trees, etc.). The design of benches and tables is characterized by degrees of freedom. For their implementation, instead of the conventional configuration of the formwork, an innovative method is proposed, characterized by precision and fidelity to the specifications of the study, while the final result ensures their robustness to avoid complications during the injection of concrete.