“Oxygen” stands as Greece's first residential complex to achieve BREEAM certification, signifying a pinnacle of sustainable architectural excellence. The building was conceived during the pandemic and addresses the shifts in how we live and work. Poised with an idyllic vantage overlooking the Olympic Athletic Center of Athens, Oxygen consists of 27 residences spanning one or two levels. Inspired by the element "Oxygen (O2)," the project aspires to deliver not just an aesthetically pleasing living environment but, foremost, holistic solutions in realms such as health, well-being, sustainable innovation, eco-friendly materials, and water and waste management.
Drawing inspiration from the elemental forces of nature, Pieris Architects orchestrated an organic design for the façades, mirroring undulating waves that delineate individual residences. The distinctive "Y"-shaped columns, reminiscent of tree trunks, serve as a visual testament to the building's commitment to sustainability. The expansive fenestration, private ground-floor gardens, capacious balconies adorned with planters, and shared green spaces collectively augment the residents' quality of life, fostering a modern and sustainable lifestyle. All residences incorporate smart home features encompassing intelligent lighting, security shutters, configurable wake-sleep scenarios, arrival-departure settings, voice-activated controls, and smart switches.
Conceived against the backdrop of the pandemic, the architectural study led by Pieris Architects compelled a reevaluation of the typology governing Greek apartment buildings. This introspective process sought alignment with contemporary and future lifestyles, emphasizing the judicious utilization of every corner of the living space. Functionality became paramount, with warm hues, textured surfaces, abundant storage, and ergonomically designed kitchens. Lighting design received meticulous attention, focusing on optimizing natural light for thermal comfort.
In acknowledgement of the evolving work landscape, each residence incorporates at least one fully equipped home office. The emphasis extends to both private and communal spaces, including a distinctive open-air covered gym surrounded by verdant foliage, exclusively designed for the residents. Adjacent to the gym, another sheltered open-air space serves dual purposes—acting as a social space and an al fresco home office adorned with vertical garden colums. Circular motifs within the landscape design echo the symbolism of Olympic rings, paying homage to the adjacent Olympic Stadium. The uncovered areas, featuring endemic plants, responding to seasonal changes, and boasting unique aesthetics, embrace the gym and the social space.
The façade of the building is distinguished by a commanding double-height entrance that serves as an outdoor sheltered lobby. Reflecting pools with circular pathways create a secluded oasis, forming the threshold between the bustling external environment and the inviting comfort of home. Oxygen epitomizes ecological sensitivity, providing residents with the opportunity to embrace an eco-friendly lifestyle, offering a retreat from the intensity of daily routines and a genuine sanctuary for rejuvenation.