A platform for research: civil engineering, architecture and urbanism
A platform for research: civil engineering, architecture and urbanism
Reclaiming decay: activating the urban ruins of Metaxourgio neighborhood
This thesis examines the urban challenges of Athens, a city grappling with high density and widespread abandonment, with a specific focus on the Metaxourgio neighborhood. Metaxourgio is emblematic of the broader issues facing Athens with a significant number of abandoned neoclassical buildings that once defined the city’s architectural identity. The theoretical framework of the thesis delves into the aesthetics of ruins as a distinct category of aesthetics, recognizing the beauty of decayed structures. It introduces the concept of destruction as a form of preservation and it explores the concept of spolia. The study reimagines architectural heritage not as a static entity but as a collection of fragmented elements that can be adapted and reused to meet contemporary needs. By focusing on adaptive reuse, the thesis proposes transforming these historical fragments into functional components of modern urban life, advocating for a dynamic interaction between the past and present. At the urban level, the thesis addresses the issue of urban voids neglected and underutilized spaces within the city. In Metaxourgio, these voids often take the form of abandoned buildings and empty lots, which are seen as opportunities for regeneration rather than mere remnants of the past. The concept of microurbanism is introduced as a strategy to revitalize these spaces through small-scale, targeted interventions. These interventions aim to create new public spaces, reconnect fragmented urban fabrics, and breathe new life into the decaying buildings of Metaxourgio. By focusing on Metaxourgio, this thesis presents a holistic approach to urban regeneration in Athens. Transforming abandoned architectural heritage into functional spaces that serve the needs of contemporary society. This strategy not only preserves the cultural memory of Athens but also ensures its relevance and vitality in the modern urban landscape. ; Award-winning
Reclaiming decay: activating the urban ruins of Metaxourgio neighborhood
This thesis examines the urban challenges of Athens, a city grappling with high density and widespread abandonment, with a specific focus on the Metaxourgio neighborhood. Metaxourgio is emblematic of the broader issues facing Athens with a significant number of abandoned neoclassical buildings that once defined the city’s architectural identity. The theoretical framework of the thesis delves into the aesthetics of ruins as a distinct category of aesthetics, recognizing the beauty of decayed structures. It introduces the concept of destruction as a form of preservation and it explores the concept of spolia. The study reimagines architectural heritage not as a static entity but as a collection of fragmented elements that can be adapted and reused to meet contemporary needs. By focusing on adaptive reuse, the thesis proposes transforming these historical fragments into functional components of modern urban life, advocating for a dynamic interaction between the past and present. At the urban level, the thesis addresses the issue of urban voids neglected and underutilized spaces within the city. In Metaxourgio, these voids often take the form of abandoned buildings and empty lots, which are seen as opportunities for regeneration rather than mere remnants of the past. The concept of microurbanism is introduced as a strategy to revitalize these spaces through small-scale, targeted interventions. These interventions aim to create new public spaces, reconnect fragmented urban fabrics, and breathe new life into the decaying buildings of Metaxourgio. By focusing on Metaxourgio, this thesis presents a holistic approach to urban regeneration in Athens. Transforming abandoned architectural heritage into functional spaces that serve the needs of contemporary society. This strategy not only preserves the cultural memory of Athens but also ensures its relevance and vitality in the modern urban landscape. ; Award-winning
Reclaiming decay: activating the urban ruins of Metaxourgio neighborhood
2024-10-22
Theses
Electronic Resource
English
Àrees temàtiques de la UPC::Urbanisme::Planejament urbà , Àrees temàtiques de la UPC::Arquitectura::Restauració arquitectònica , City planning -- Grece -- Metaxourgio (Athens) , Public spaces -- Grece -- Metaxourgio (Athens) , Monuments -- Conservation and restoration -- Grece -- Metaxourgio (Athens) , Athens , Abandonment , Fragments , Heritage , Public space , Urbanisme -- Grècia -- Metaxourgio (Atenes) , Espais públics -- Grècia -- Metaxourgio (Atenes) , Monuments -- Conservació i restauració -- Grècia -- Metaxourgio (Atenes)
Reclaiming Urban Breathing Spaces
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Reclaiming History for Urban Action
| British Library Conference Proceedings | 1998