Architectural vision: in harmony with nature

The student campus is located next to the city of Heraklion on Crete and represents an ambitious architectural and urban planning project. The architectural design aims to create a space that not only serves the functional needs of its students but also integrates with the surrounding environment. The overall architectural concept fosters a sense of belonging, community, and sustainability. Situated in a serene landscape dominated by olive trees and lush greenery, the project is an exemplary fusion of nature, architecture, and social values.

The main characteristic of surrounding environment are the undulating green fields and iconic olive groves. Nature forms a natural backdrop that runs through the entire architectural and urban planning strategy. The olive trees, deeply rooted in the Cretan culture, serve as both a literal and metaphorical foundation for the design. The design attempts to be in constant dialogue with the natural setting. A harmonious relationship that blurs the boundaries between built and unbuilt space. This is not merely a campus that happens to be surrounded by nature. It is rather a place where nature is a central component of the campus experience. The green surroundings extend in a way into the communal spaces and the campus is envisioned as a place where the natural world and student life intertwine.

The core principle of the architectural design is to foster a sense of community and equality among the students. The circular design of the buildings follows this principle. Their shape intentionally promotes feelings of inclusion and shared experience. The architecture of the student campus draws inspiration from the forms found in nature such as the circular patterns of olive tree trunks. The shapes of the structures flow smoothly within the landscape and create a sense of perpetual movement and harmony with the surroundings.

Master plan and Urban design

The master plan for the campus includes a comprehensive urban planning concept. The goal was to create a campus that feels like an integral part of the landscape rather than an imposition upon it. The sprawling layout of the campus ensures that the large scale of the project does not overwhelm its surroundings. Instead, it fits naturally within the context of the green fields and olive groves. To achieve this, the structures themselves are designed in organic forms.

Moreover, a series of interconnected paths organizes the architectural layout. These paths allow the free movement throughout the campus and encourage students to walk and interact with their environment. This approach contributes to the overall sense of community. At the heart of the campus lies a large communal courtyard, which serves as both a literal and symbolic center. This space acts as a focal point for the campus. A place where students from all areas can come together, share experiences, and form connections.

This architectural approach not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the campus but also serves a practical function. The circular design and the integration of open courtyards allow for optimal air circulation and natural light. In this way, the need for artificial lighting and air conditioning is reduced. The result is a campus that is not only visually harmonious with its environment but also energy-efficient and sustainable. The enclosed courtyards act as a natural ventilator, allowing cool breezes to flow through the buildings.

In summary, the student campus stands as a testament to the power of architecture and urban planning. The spaces are not only functional and sustainable but also deeply connected to their natural surroundings. By drawing inspiration from the characteristic olive groves of Crete, the main principles were to prioritize sustainability, community, and equality.

The integration of natural elements, organic design forms, and a sense of community ensures that the campus is more than a place of learning. It is a place where students can feel at home, connected to both the environment and one another. As a result, the project succeeds in its goal of fostering a vibrant and inclusive academic community while simultaneously respecting and enhancing the beauty of its natural setting.