Interelationships: A Sustainable and Innovative Residential Complex

Creating a Harmonious Blend of Modern Aesthetics and Universal Design

The design of Interelationships revolves around the movement of the passer-by accessing the property, crossing through its heart, and finally ascending to the planted rooftop where breathtaking views of Athens await. The complex consists of two Residential Unit Blocks and the Stairwell Exhibition Block, which houses all circulation paths.

The central courtyard serves as the focal point of the complex, featuring a swimming pool, pool bar, indoor cafe with creative workshops, and exterior exhibitions connected to ancient masonry relics. The ascending movement towards the planted rooftop leads to the Stairwell Exhibition Block, which houses a multipurpose room and office spaces. The redefined Stairwell concept also allows for periodic art exhibitions, creating a meaningful connection between modern and ancient art.

Interelationships showcases a range of unique design elements and materials. Polycarbonate sheet siding highlights public usages and prismatic extrusions, while patinated copper metal panels blend seamlessly with the surrounding hill and adjoining park. Masonry walls form the base for the volumetric development of the main building, while bare concrete is used for the facade treatment of the smaller residential unit and flooring of the exterior pathways. Wood planks are utilized as flooring for the pool bar and as siding for the upper levels of the stairwell exhibition facade. Porous grass paving surfaces are applied to all grass areas on the ground level and the planted rooftops, enhancing the overall sustainability of the complex.

Interelationships is not only visually stunning but also incorporates a range of sustainable features. The fundamental aim of the project is to propose a sustainable dwelling model that focuses on infrastructure, user experience, and operation management. The complex utilizes zero-energy infrastructure, incorporating passive and active systems to reduce CO2 emissions. Planted roofs, water elements, and plantings improve microclimatic conditions, while polycarbonate sheet sidings allow for ample natural lighting. Photovoltaic panels and small roof wind turbines generate enough power to cover the energy needs of the residential units, with energy accumulators storing and releasing energy as needed. Geothermal and thermal mass systems provide efficient cooling, heating, and hot water. The complex also adheres to the Passive House Standard for the building envelope and incorporates water collection, purification, and reuse systems, as well as recycling and waste management facilities.

Interelationships offers a unique and stimulating experience for its residents and visitors. The deliberate complexity of movement, with diagonal accesses and multilevel outdoor expansions, enhances the building's morphology and allows for multiple viewpoints. The complex also offers employment opportunities through its public usages, satisfying the social needs of the tenants and contributing to the economic growth of the complex.

The development of the Interelationships project started in May 2018 in Athens and was completed in July 2019. The design was based on international UD regulations and in collaboration with a research consultant to ensure accessibility and inclusivity. The apartments within the complex are designed to promote social interaction, flexibility, independence, and privacy, boosting self-esteem and dignity. The design incorporates flat accesses, ramps, elevators, and external stair lifts to ensure smooth movement throughout the complex.

Overcoming challenges was an integral part of the design process for Interelationships. The incorporation of the masonry remains of two neoclassical buildings and ancient masonry relics required meticulous architectural handling. Additionally, the height difference between the two bounding roads of the plot posed difficulties in meeting UD criteria for unobstructed circulation. Elevators, stair lifts, and ramps were strategically employed throughout the complex to address these challenges.

Interelationships is not only a remarkable architectural achievement but also a project with significant social impact. The complex serves as a collective community for vulnerable groups of people, providing them with a supportive living environment. By integrating these individuals into work and joint participation in various activities with city residents, Interelationships fosters interpersonal relationships and cultural exchange. The complex has the potential to become a cultural attraction, offering revenue-generated activities that contribute to the social, cultural, and leisure needs of its residents and the wider community.

Interelationships has been recognized for its excellence in design and innovation. The project was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in the Architecture, Building, and Structure Design category in 2020. This prestigious award acknowledges the well-designed, practical, and innovative nature of the project, which meets professional and industrial requirements while contributing to a better world.