ESCA-PLANTING
Myria Christodoulou, Razan Abualzulof
The Limassol Old Port area is part of Limassol’s cultural and historical center, and the old town’s commercial center. It accommodates facilities for the fishermen and a wide spectrum of activities of the public. However, the site currently lacks some shading, it has accessibility and safety issues and in need of more open-air activities. The competition aims at upgrading two entrances to the Old Port- the main central entrance A and the west entrance B.
The proposed design suggests a distinctive character of the Entrances inspired by the water bubbles. By elevating a platform to create shaded areas at the two entrances, that penetrates through the site and interconnects the street with the seaside and at the same time their upper floors and the existing pedestrian paths. The green and water elements are prominent in our proposal as they are vital, as they aim to enhance sense of being and overall health of visitors and create a multisensory experience which allows visitors to mentally escape in this space.
The social aspect is prominently considered in our design process and final proposal, as it aims to be socially inclusive to all groups. Visual access is provided throughout the site, which encourages feeling of safety and protection especially to kids being watched by parents, due to meshes/nets constructing parts of the design. The proposed structure is designed to provide thermal comfort, especially during summer, as well as safety, and sustainability. The proposal also aims to enhance the organic distribution of the flows of the pedestrian and cyclists, in a way where they can enter the space, slow down and observe it. The design proposal also engages with a solution for possible future flooding
