‘RE-THINK ATHENS’ towards a new city center

BURNS + NICE's design creates a re-defined city centre for Athens. The project is based on the idea of the tree lined ‘boulevard' and the creation of a series of revitalised public spaces. It transforms Panepistimiou Street into a vibrant linear space for pedestrians and cyclists and re-establishes Omonoia Square as a key public space within the city.

Promoting sustainable mobility, the project includes the extension of the tram line and the re-organisation of the motorised traffic. It makes the city centre a destination and amenity space for its residents and visitors while reinforcing residential, commercial, administrative and financial activities.

The design approach is based on the creation of a ‘green ring' of trees which references the 19th century vision for Athens, this urban form unifies and defines the new city centre as a ‘place'. ‘Glades' highlight high profile historic buildings and create spaces for a variety of urban events. The tree lined ‘boulevard' concept can be extended to connect with new and existing avenues of trees linking nearby parks and green spaces as shaded green routes bringing fresh air and nature into the city.

The design approach is holistic, integrating paving, street furniture, lighting, planting, public art and wayfinding, the re-use of empty buildings and the introduction of urban farming.