Construction has commenced on a significant new cultural hub in Piraeus, Greece, envisioned to become an international focal point for arts and culture. This ambitious undertaking, led by the Renzo Piano Building Workshop in partnership with Betaplan Architects from Athens and landscape architect Camille Muller from Paris, is commissioned by The Dinos and Lia Martinos Foundation (DLMF). The project, named KYKLOS, aims to enrich the urban and cultural fabric of the Athens metropolitan area by offering a vibrant space for contemporary art collections and diverse cultural programs with a global perspective. Since its initiation in 2023, the development has been steadily progressing, with completion anticipated by late 2028.
The KYKLOS Centre for Arts and Cultures is designed to be a dynamic venue for exploring global contemporary art through both physical exhibitions and digital interactions. Strategically located near the Neo Faliro electric train station, the center emphasizes a seamless integration of architecture and natural landscapes, encouraging visitors to immerse themselves in art, education, and community life. The design prioritizes open and accessible spaces, featuring indoor galleries alongside expansive open-air areas, thus fostering a civic and cultural gathering place. The Renzo Piano Building Workshop's design philosophy for KYKLOS underscores spatial clarity, environmental responsibility, and a strong civic presence, envisioning the center as a vital local resource and a key node in an international network of art institutions.
The architectural concept positions the building as a sanctuary for art, nestled within a Mediterranean garden. Fully glazed exhibition spaces offer views of a major avenue to the west and a serene garden to the east. The interplay of architectural elements and lush vegetation creates a filtered natural light environment, seamlessly blending the building with its urban and natural surroundings. A substantial portion, approximately 62%, of the site is dedicated to public green spaces meticulously designed by Camille Muller, facilitating a gentle transition between the center and the city while contributing positively to the urban ecosystem. Internally, a flexible layout allows for a wide array of exhibitions, events, and educational activities to coexist and evolve, emphasizing transparency in both visual connections and functional flow to enhance the visitor experience. Beyond its permanent and rotating exhibitions, KYKLOS will host an array of lectures, screenings, and digital programs, significantly expanding its cultural and educational outreach.
This initiative represents a profound commitment to fostering cultural exchange and community engagement through innovative architectural design. By creating a welcoming and environmentally integrated space, KYKLOS is set to inspire, educate, and connect people, promoting a deeper appreciation for the arts and contributing to the vibrant cultural dialogue of Greece and beyond.