Revitalizing Athens: The Minion Project

Architect Konstantina Stella Tsagkaratou's Award-Winning Mixed Use Development

The Minion Project, a mixed-use development, is a testament to the power of urban redevelopment. The design draws inspiration from the rich history of Athens, particularly Patision street, a visual pathway leading to the Acropolis. The building, once the most famous shopping mall in Greece, was destroyed by fire in the 1980s and has remained abandoned until now.

What sets the Minion Project apart is its unique combination of retail, office, and residential units, each with its own distinct feature. The retail space boasts an iconic entrance, the offices feature a protruding glass cube meeting room with views of the Parthenon, and the residential entrance is nestled in the central courtyard, a continuation of the adjacent pedestrian street.

The building's structural elements are made of concrete, while the glazing is triple-layered for energy efficiency and noise control. The façade features metallic horizontal louvers, and the roof and balconies are adorned with vegetation and photovoltaic panels to further enhance the building's energy efficiency.

The Minion Project is not just a design marvel but also a study in the co-existence of different functions within a single development. The architect's research on mixed-use developments has led to a design that addresses the seemingly contradicting needs of retail, office, and residential uses, ultimately benefiting the life of the neighbourhood by providing activity during both day and night.

Despite the challenges posed by the building's history and the damage caused by the fire, Tsagkaratou's innovative design approach has resulted in a project that respects the past while looking towards the future. The Minion Project, located in the heart of Athens, Greece, is a beacon of urban redevelopment and architectural innovation.

This remarkable design has not gone unnoticed. The Minion Project was awarded Silver in the A' Architecture, Building and Structure Design Award in 2023, a prestigious accolade given to designs that demonstrate outstanding expertise and innovation. The award is a testament to Tsagkaratou's exceptional architectural skill and the Minion Project's contribution to the revitalization of Athens.