The historical river of Athens, Ilissos, covered by the highway in the post-war period, flows silently under the territory, with rich historical and cultural references waiting to be revealed.
In a dense city like Athens,with little public space and chaotic urban form, preserving landscape integrity and continuity is a significant urban design parameter.
Less built volume and more public space
Instead of a volume-oriented approach, we choose space-oriented approach. An urban terrace for Athens is much more necessary than a spectacular architectural volume. The space needed for the museum can be provided under the ground level, allowing thus to create a significant public space area on ground level.
Apart from providing exhibition surfaces and developing a strong cultural presence, the Olympic museum of Athens needs to be a symbol of what the city needs: a sustainable future.