Argo Cultural Center

Press Kit

Unique Properties

The purpose of the building is to make a connection between Man, Art and Nature. Argo makes full use of the resources of the natural environment and uses contemporary techniques to achieve the main aim of the design. The dynamic form of the building and the sharp angles create a futuristic and bold aesthetic. The structure itself pushes the boundaries of spatial configuration. The interior of the building also follows the same design approach. Argo cultural center develops a sophisticated architectural design that evolves and takes its final form and substance as a piece of art developed in the three dimensional space.

Dimensions & Packaging

Dimensions
Ground floor area 5,500 square meters
First floor area 2,800 square meters
Materials
Steel, Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete, Insulation, Frames with thermal conductivity U below 0.9
Net zero energy structure
Rainwater harvest system, solar panels

Tags

Lightweight, sharp, pure, dynamic, flow

Production Technology

The structure is a combination of steel frame and reinforced concrete. The external cladding material is Glass Fibre Reinforced Concrete which is dirt repellent and self-cleaning. The facade panels of high-performance white cement and glass fibres offer a lightweight construction. The building designed with energy efficient materials, it uses high quality insulation and insulated glass. The structure has a harvest system that collects rainwater from the roof and then channels it through gutters to an underground storage tank. A part of the roof is covered by solar panels that provide the necessary energy for net zero energy consumption.

Design Challenge

There were geographical and material constraints that had to be overcome. Argo responds to current demands. it is a contemporaty building enhancing the citizens connect both with culture and nature.The project is influenced by the geographical features, the social features as well as the history of the site.

Research

Extensive research was carried out during the design, including historical, technological aspects and simulations. The objectives of the research are to create a building which is energy efficient uses high tech materials in a futuristic design and highlights the cultural identity of the area. The design has developed using parametric design tools. The result of the project combines history with contemporary architectural design.

Inspiration

The building is named after the ship Argo. According to the Greek mythology Argo was the first ship to sail the seas. Argo's main characteristic was its extremely light weight, which facilitated its transportation through land by its own crew. The design of the structure captures the exact moment when the Argonauts carry the vessel, ready to launch it into the sea. The Argo Cultural Center looks like a breathtaking ship on land.

Project Duration

Argo cultural center is located by the lake Kati in the heart of the mountain Olympus in Greece.

Operation Flow

This building is a cultural center, the main entrance can be reached through the underground parking space where there are elevators leading to the foyer on the ground floor. Besides the foyer, the ground floor includes an exhibition area, a concert hall and a bar-restaurant for visitors. The first floor of the Argo Cultural Center includes a library, a reading area, and a workshop area. On the first floor there is also a patio where the visitors can enjoy the view of the lake and the Olympus Mountain. All areas of the Argo Cultural Center are accessible by elevators and escalators.

Image Credits

Creator (Architect) Chrysi Vrantsi, design and visualization,2022.