Regeneration of Dimosthenis Sotiriou Square, Markopoulo -GR
1st Prize in architectural competition, 1998
Architects: Panos Dragonas, Varvara Christopoulou
Until the late 1990s, Markopoulo was a junction town between Athens and the coastal zone of Mesogeia. The construction of the new airport, Athens ring-road, and Olympic Equestrian Centre, led to the overall development of the area. The conversion of the rural settlement into a modern urban center took place without addressing the growing needs. Public space was compromised by conflicting programmatic elements (intense traffic nuisance, commerce, entertainment), and was thus unable to serve as a space of meetings and leisure.
The design proposal aims to create a flexible square capable of adapting to the different demands of the residents. The plan layout restores the connection of the church with public space. The landscaping includes a linear square, measuring 90 X 12 meters, which remains vacant so that it can be used for temporary and improvised events. The linear square is surrounded by inclined surfaces that define transitional spaces and sitting areas.
The architectural and transportation study was completed in 2002 but was never implemented due to disputes related to the pedestrianization of the town centre.
Civil engineers: Yorgos Dimos, Paris Patsioras.
Mechanical engineer: Yorgos Prosgolitis.
Transportation engineers: Denco development & engineering consultants.
