I am particularly interested in how architectural decisions implement positive long-term effects. The matter of sustainability motivates me, both in terms of ecology and social value and community. I look forward to seeing changes in creative thinking as technology develops.
From the Greek term indicating the ‘in-between’, Metaxi itself aims to facilitate the
communication and understanding between different cultural communities in Athens,
Greece. While there have been tensions and unrest regarding the increase of migrants,
post-COVID, there is often a disconnect between the residents of Athens and the
immigrant and refugee communities. The concept of disconnection is addressed through
the programmatic discovery of sharing and understanding one another.
This, subsequently, materialised through the aspect of performance.
Metaxi House is first and foremost a hub for all. This cultural centre prioritised
performance in celebration and festivities, both around the world and within Greece itself.
The main purpose of the new addition, embedded within the typology of the Athenian
Polykatoikia, is to drive communities together through dance and textiles. The program
is centralised around displaying and holding shows – dance and fashion – for locals and
foreigners alike to enjoy.
The Permanent: Metaxi House has a permanent exhibition displaying traditional and
historic Grecian dance attire.
The Temporary: On a rolling three-month basis, Metaxi House collaborates with diverse
cultural groups within the area to display and share their cultural festivities.
Housing both dance studios and textile workshops, as well as a cafe, exhibition space, and
auditorium, Metaxi House, aims to aid communities in learning from one another.
To Dress.
To Dance.
To Celebrate.
An initial review of the site in Athens
Aligning and comparing the findings from a contextual study of design language within Neapoli with the initial site response. This outlines the requirements of the space in reference to the five rules applied to this project. I extrapolated, simplified, and abstracted themes of disconnection, heart/core, diversity, structure, and compromise.
