Modify

Ellinoagliki Agwgi Secondary – Academy

Category : Architecture- Education | Project Type : Constructed | Year : 2023 | Location : Athens Greece
Integrating Modern Architecture with Historical Preservation

The design of our new school building posed a significant challenge: the site is home to an ancient Roman Empire pipe, a valuable historical artifact that could not be disturbed. Our solution was to create an elevated structure that hovers above the pipe, preserving it entirely while allowing us to construct a modern, functional educational space. By combining cutting-edge architectural solutions with a deep respect for the site’s history, this project exemplifies the balance between innovation and preservation.

Architectural rendering of the Ellinoagliki Agwgi School, showcasing a modern three-story building with vertical facade elements, a rooftop garden, and a unique structural base. The surrounding landscape includes trees and minimalist seating, presented in a monochromatic, conceptual style. By Modify Architects
A modern school building with a unique cantilevered design, featuring a walkway connecting to a second structure, surrounded by a landscaped outdoor area with people and trees under a bright blue sky. By Modify Architects
A modern architectural rendering depicts a multi-level building with a concrete base and white upper levels, featuring a wide staircase and a gathering space with people walking and conversing. The building has a contemporary design with linear elements, metal railings, and a mix of textures. A group of people are visible in the foreground, suggesting a public or communal area. By Modify Architects
Architectural Concept: Elevation, Functionality, and Harmony with History

The heart of our design approach centers on preserving the Roman pipe. To ensure the pipe remains untouched, the building is elevated on L-shaped columns, which strategically transfer the structure’s weight away from the sensitive underground area. This elevated design also gives the building a striking visual identity, as it appears to float gracefully above the ground.

Additionally, the site’s natural inclination was embraced and incorporated into the design. A wide theater-like staircase connects the ground floor with the sloped terrain, serving both as a functional passageway and a gathering space for students and staff. The staircase’s open layout encourages social interaction and allows for larger gatherings, further reinforcing the school’s role as a community hub.

Aesthetic and Material Palette: A Modern, Minimalist Facade

The building’s aesthetic is defined by its clean lines and minimalist design, with the exterior clad in stucco in two complementary colors. This dual-tone stucco not only creates a visually dynamic appearance but also emphasizes the building’s modern character. The facade on both the front and rear faces features a striking grid-like window complex. These large windows serve both functional and aesthetic purposes: they allow an abundance of natural light to flood the interior spaces while reinforcing the building’s geometric, modern look.

A modern architectural rendering of a three-story building with a striking glass facade framed by vertical concrete elements, set against a bright blue sky with fluffy clouds and a distant cityscape. A small tree grows in front of a low concrete wall, adding a touch of greenery to the scene. The building's design emphasizes clean lines and a minimalist aesthetic, with visible interior lighting suggesting occupancy. By Modify Architects
A modern school building with a unique cantilevered design, featuring a walkway connecting to a second structure, surrounded by a landscaped outdoor area with people and trees under a bright blue sky. By Modify Architects
Architectural Concept: Elevation, Functionality, and Harmony with History

The heart of our design approach centers on preserving the Roman pipe. To ensure the pipe remains untouched, the building is elevated on L-shaped columns, which strategically transfer the structure’s weight away from the sensitive underground area. This elevated design also gives the building a striking visual identity, as it appears to float gracefully above the ground.

Additionally, the site’s natural inclination was embraced and incorporated into the design. A wide theater-like staircase connects the ground floor with the sloped terrain, serving both as a functional passageway and a gathering space for students and staff. The staircase’s open layout encourages social interaction and allows for larger gatherings, further reinforcing the school’s role as a community hub.

Steel Transparent Staircase: Vertical Connectivity and Design Elegance

At the rear face of the building, we introduced a prominent design feature: a steel transparent staircase. This staircase connects all levels of the building, ensuring seamless vertical circulation. Designed with a combination of steel and glass, the staircase is visually light, offering a sense of openness and transparency. The steel framework provides strength and stability, while the transparent design minimizes visual obstruction, maintaining the building’s sleek and modern aesthetic. The staircase not only serves as a functional vertical link but also adds a distinctive architectural feature to the rear facade.

Architectural rendering of a modern school building with a prominent, open-air staircase and vertical slat facade, set against a clear blue sky with a distant city skyline and landscaping with trees and people. By Modify Architects
A modern school building with a unique cantilevered design, featuring a walkway connecting to a second structure, surrounded by a landscaped outdoor area with people and trees under a bright blue sky. By Modify Architects
Functional Layout: Thoughtful Organization for Learning and Interaction

The building’s internal layout is designed to meet the needs of a modern educational institution while fostering community engagement:

  • Ground Floor: The entrance features a spacious reception area leading to a bright canteen with flexible seating for dining and gatherings. Adjacent is the teachers’ room, providing a comfortable workspace for staff.

  • Basement: This level houses essential learning spaces, including a quiet library for study and a computer room equipped with the latest technology, supporting focused and collaborative work.

  • Upper Floors: The three upper floors are dedicated to well-lit classrooms, arranged for easy circulation and collaboration. Each classroom benefits from ample daylight through the grid-patterned windows, creating an inviting learning environment.

  • Top Floor Patio: A serene patio on the top floor offers an outdoor space for relaxation and informal gatherings, extending the learning environment with views and fresh air.