Title: "Modular Shading System for the central squares of Arta"
Firm: LandmArch. Landscape Architecture
Collaborator: Vasilis Ingvar Raptis
Client: Municipality of Arta
Location: Arta, Greece
Year: 2015
This site specific project appeared as a design solution for the complete aesthetical and functional makeover of the two most populated public squares of the city.
It derived from the need of the Municapility of Arta (Greece) to abolish all the existing shading systems, such as umbrellas, tents and other constructions, which have been placed on the squares under no specific plan, aesthetical criteria and sustainable specifications.
The aim of this study is to replace the above constructions, which are, now, installed by shopkeepers in cooperation with the competent bodies, with new ones, in order to provide an holistic, sustainable solution and a clear identity to this specific location.
The proposal will add architectural value to the squares, offering at the same time, comfort, a friendly environment, safety and a sustainable solution, so that it can fit harmoniously into the existing landscape, serving the needs of the general improvement of its surroundings.
Furthermore, in specific positions, such as destination points or linear, leading paths, there will be placed water elements, such as water jets, in order to create areas of interest, games and leisure activities. These jets will support the creation of a friendly, microclimate both for humans and the local fauna and flora.
It is well known that the existence of water elements in public spaces inspire feelings of relaxation and mental uplifting, reduces the heat island effect, aesthetically enhances the area and brings man a step closer to his natural environment, not to mention the considerable support of the local ecosystem.
Finally, a new, contemporary and eco-friendly lighting design will add value to the complex of the shades, together with the existing trees and the proposed water jets.
Analytically:
Our proposal specifies in detail a particular hexagonal-shaped model, covering a total area of about 10.50 sq.m., which less or more copy the vertical shade area of the existing trees of the square.
The hexagonal shape is based on motifs of Byzantine architecture, which is present everywhere you look around the historical town of Arta.
Moreover, this form serves a possible organic expansion or removal of these shades, in case future changes occur on the surface allowed by the municipality to the tenants. All this may happen without reducing their aesthetic value, both individually and as a whole, which has been one of our main purposes from the very beginning.
Finally, this modular-hexagonal form of the shades, plus the specific area covered by them, is facilitating a clear and smooth integration of the existing trees into the overall organic sinthesis, creating a new, harmonic landscape, dialoging with the existing one.
Materials:
The frame of the modular shading system is impregnated natural wood, while the shading system itself is pvc membrane which offers 100% sun protection. All assembly is done with metal wrapped elements and beam cases.
Lighting:
Linear LED ligting will embrace the modular borders both on their roof and the ground, following the hexagonal design. With this gesture our shades will provide a clear idea of their existence, during the night, as an open-space room, into the public squares, both for relaxation and entertainment.