Intro

My approach to architecture revolves around building ideas grounded in the current social and political conditions with an aspiration to positively impact the community and thus initiate cultural changes. My aim is to provide platforms for the users to confront issues such as: the segmentation of social groups, the gentrification, the scarcity of public spaces, the fragmented historical layers and the lack of alternative educational systems. In essence, on a greater scale, my work supports and stimulates the engagement of different social and historical groups with the aim to achieve a greater quality of life.

My passion for design goes beyond the final outcome; I am interested in exploring the process behind and studying how humans experience space. The systematic process of experimentation with model making, hand drawing, photography, collaging and 3D design technology allows for a holistic understanding of the phenomenological aspects of my designs.

Living in an industrialised world, communities are at risk of losing their heritage resulting in the loss of tradition and sense of identity. Projects like the Soap and Perfume Factory and the Rhythm Factory aim to bring back the missing notion of craftsmanship through the introduction of manufacturing industries. These are used for handmade processes of the local products from their original components to the final stages. This way they create opportunities for the locals to engage with this process and thus establish local economic and social networks.

In addition to improving the quality of social and financial exchange, my work also aims to raise awareness regarding the value of sustainability. This becomes evident in projects like, the Secondary School for Deaf students, the Exhibition Pavilion and the Palimpsest Landscape. These low energy buildings are constructed with eco-friendly materials such as timber, recycled steel and precast concrete. Apart from the use of sustainable materiality, the buildings also provide a variety of environmental facilities such as: the use of natural ventilation and roof water collection, the application of the Trombe wall strategy, the use of solar paneling and the benefit of water heating.

Architecture Portfolio

Alkisti Mikelatou

Intro