MAIN IDEA
The central idea of the seadrome design is based on an isosceles triangle. Starting with the isosceles triangle, a bisection was carried out with respect to one of its corners, with a direct consequence of creating two right-angled triangles, where with the appropriate adjustment of their size and their movement based on the vertical axis, two new buildings were created. One building is the main area of the seadrome, while a second building houses the hydroplane maintenance and repair areas.
Another parameter that played a very important role in the design – construction of the seadrome was the existence of the north and north-east winds. Consequently, the two initially triangular surfaces of the two buildings took the form of triangular prisms, giving both buildings an aerodynamic design in order to deal with wind pressures.
The seaside plot of approximately a hectare in size, is located close to the “Irinis & Filias” stadium
and has access from the central road axis (coastal boulevard) of Athens.
Within the plot, the two buildings are located, and additionally an above- and belowground parking, appropriate planting configurations, vehicle parking areas for the service of passengers, but also rest formations for the visitors of the seadrome.
The placement of the buildings’ volumes was done in such a way that the entire architectural composition is oriented towards the south for the best utilization of natural sunlight and the view.
A 40 m long ramp is formed between the two buildings. The ramp transports the visitor from elevation level +6.20 m to +2.00 m where they meet a wooden configuration (deck).
Finally, the element that completes the overall composition are the jetties that lead travelers to and from the seaplanes.
ANALYSIS OF THE SPACES
BUILDING A
Water level +2.00 m
This is the level of the departures and arrivals areas, a restaurant area intended for private use, wc, lockers for luggage and the areas intended for the seadrome staff, in order to achieve its proper and smooth operation.
Water level +6.20 m
This level is the entrance to the main area of the seadrome with ticketing offices, currency exchange offices, information desk, car rental offices, wc, smoking area, a bank store with ATM, a first aid station, shops, bar-café, dining area, wi-fi area and the employees’ rest room.
Water level +9.20 m
This is the 3rd level that includes the VIP lounge salon.
Water level +12.20 m
This 4th level hosts a restaurant area, wc and auxiliary space
BUILDING B
The base of this building lies at an elevation of +1.20 m and includes spaces for aircraft cleaning and repairing, tool storage areas, rest areas, administration offices and an electronic library.
CONSTRUCTION
In terms of construction, both buildings consist of mixed construction. The internal vertical surfaces are constructed of exposed concrete. Visual communication with the external environment is enabled by energy glass surfaces, while white marble surfaces are applied to the floors for the main circulation areas and resinous coating to the floors of the auxiliary areas.
Each pyramid consists of a metal mesh on which the metal canvas carrying the glass panels is placed.
The metal columns are based on reinforced concrete columns. Photovoltaic glass panels have been placed on two of the three seats of each pyramid, while on the 3rd seat, energy glass is also placed on both buildings. With the application of photovoltaic glass, energy autonomy is provided to the entire complex, while in parallel with the use of energy glass, the view to the external environment is allowed without increasing the temperature inside the shell.
