This innovative commercial development of total covered area of 2486 square meters, consists of 5 storey’s of Office/residential space bespoke designed to the highest standard with direct and beautiful sea views. Three double height shops with ground floor and mezzanine, open onto the main piazza, private over ground and underground parking for 30 cars and extensive underground storage facilities is build on 1800 square meters. There is also public parking in front of the impressive main piazza.
Situated on the corniche, the crystalline mass of the building is protected by an exoskeleton solar shield. The design stretches the earthquake stringent local regulations to its limits. Large cantilevers are used to allow each floor to slide off grid, providing a dynamic and shifting composition. This development, unique in its status for Cyprus brings together commercial insight and design excellence for the client A. Athanasiou Constructions and Developments by award winning Scott Brownrigg architects.
The crystalline mass of the building is enhanced by the vertical coloured frameless glass fins which break the horizontal shifting slab levels. This feature where horizontal links the vertical creates a dynamic rhythm and sculptural pattern throughout the glazed elevations. This strong visual architectural element, (from lighting and spatial sensations to textures and materials,) is part of the design strategy which creates a unique experience for users and passers at all times.
During the day the reflections of coloured glass juxtaposed against each other create an interacting ever-changing palette of colour. This careful consideration of material will embrace the space and its site context creating a vibrant landmark and reference point for Limassol.
Furthermore during the night the coloured fins and exoskeleton shield are appropriately lit to recreate a striking and animated architectural jewel which would keep passers by in architectural awe.
The building continues to amaze in its public and private outdoor areas .The extensive flamed grey granite forecourt of the building is brought to life by a vertical 7m glass prismatic clock tower and in ground linear lights which break up the regularity of the formal piazza. An external water feature acts as a welcoming backdrop to the commercial areas and simultaneously contributes to the acoustics of running water throughout the site.
All these features contribute to a landmark mixed – use development where not only the standard is to the highest quality of design innovation, the vision and intelligent use of materials and design create an unforgettable experience both interior and exterior, private and public, day and night.