Fougaro Cultural Centre

An Alternative Scenario of Re-cycling / Nafplio, Greece

2012

Special Mention HELIARCH 2013
Europa Nostra Award (Nomination), 2013

Surface: 1.500 sqm

Design 1998 -2006 / Construction 2007-2012

Conversion of the old fruit factory Anthos to a cultural center with art galleries, kids’ laboratories and library, restaurant and open-air areas for concerts.

The main theme: To re-design the existing, the space, the matter, the memory, giving at the whole, indoor and outdoor area, a second circle of life. Simple lines, reversible panels and materials, like concrete, wood, steel and water surfaces.

The sustainability approach: The existing stone masonry is preserved and a new roof is constructed, while parts of the existing timber structure are preserved after being restored, insulated and waterproofed. A closed-circuit geothermal energy system with heat pumps and under floor heating is installed. Each building is autonomous in operation and the whole complex has been optimized for saving energy. Trees, green and bare earth surfaces, permeable materials and water areas enhance the cooling effect of evaporation and air temperature is reduced.