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| Renzo Piano reveals design for Athens' modern urban icon The Board of Directors of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF) and the Renzo Piano Building Workshop (RPBW), a world-renowned architectural firm, revealed the concept design for the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center (SNFCC), housing the National Library of Greece and the Greek National Opera, both set within the Stavros Niarchos Park. SNFCC is the first public-private endeavor of its kind with the Greek State and SNF is pleased to have formed a precedent-setting relationship to create this new urban icon. Inspired by SNF's strong ties to Greece and enduring commitment to enriching the lives of citizens from around the world, SNFCC will honor Greek culture by enabling both Greek and global visitors to experience art, education, and green space. SNFCC will be located at the Faliron Delta area in Athens, Greece and will include the latest in environmentally progressive, state-of-the-art facilities. In addition to increased exposure to the arts and access to green space, both physical and virtual guests will benefit from the technologically advanced library. RPBW also paid particular attention to the accessibility for people of all ages and special needs. In keeping with SNF's and RPBW's mission to create an emissions neutral facility, the project has been conceptualized with the highest standards of environmental sustainability. A pivotal design element that will play a significant role in helping achieve this aggressive standard can be seen in Piano and his Building Workshop's innovative roof- a series of interconnected photovoltaic cell panels which will cover the structure's needs, taking advantage of the pure "green" solar and wind energy. SNFCC is also expected to receive LEED certification. LEED addresses all building types and emphasizes state-of-the-art strategies in five areas: sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials and resources selection, and indoor environmental quality. Another fundamental attribute incorporated into SNFCC is the sea, which has played an important role in Greece's history and culture. To draw in the sea's sense of light, limitless opportunity, and exploration, a canal will run parallel to the existing Espalanade. Within the border of SNFCC, the canal will provide visitors a place for family gatherings, activity, and relaxation, while also fulfilling a need for flood-protection. SNFCC is expected to open in 2015 and its construction will be funded exclusively by SNF with an approximate budget of 450 million Euros, pursuant to a Memorandum of Understanding executed with the Greek State. Once completed, the project will be turned over to the Greek State. The site is approximately 187,800 square meters. write your comments about the article :: © 2009 Construction News :: home page |