Kerkini Wet Shelter: Interventions & Strategic Plan at the Port of Kerkini Lake

Abstract

The environment should not be viewed as an obstacle to economic development, but as an advantage with many privileged resources. Natural and energy resources, water systems, mountains and natural landscapes constitute wealth that, if used sustainably, can promote economic and social development of the surrounding area.

The diploma project entitled “Kerkini Wet Shelter: Strategic plan & interventions in the port of Kerkini Lake” highlights the National Park of Lake Kerkini in northern Greece, Serres. The Park is proposed as an ideal example of intervention in the natural environment with multiple benefits not only for economic and social development, but primarily for the natural enrichment and maintenance of the environmental integrity of the area. An informal terrain, this area was previously neglected, abandoned, yet publicly accessed and used, without a clear identity and, above all, without any concern for functionality, relying solely on its great natural beauty.

In this design proposal the lake is the central point of the landscape, and the visitor has the opportunity to enjoy the newly designed stopping points for resting, recreation and nature observation, as well as a variety of activities, especially by inviting him to come into close contact with the water. The design aims to highlight both the panoramic views and the value of connection with the liquid element. The symbolic interpretation of the 2 dominant axes, the delineation of the curve with the symbolism of environmental awareness, the care of "embrace" for the natural environment and the linear wedge that intersects the curve and assumes a "role" of action, perform as intensity and ascension initiatives. Man is active around the natural landscape and interacts in harmony with it through environmental protection schemes. A pavilion becomes the main element among other constructions, all designed by respecting the fragility and serenity of the landscape, as well as the sense of the ephemeral of any manmade structure on this spot.