Set within the dynamic environment of the Athenian Riviera, this concept design proposes a new educational hub for the city of Athens: the extension of one of Greece’s leading educational institutions into a new era, through the development of brand-new facilities for all levels, from Kindergarten to High School and the IB program, across two adjacent plots of 31,000 sqm.

The brief called for an extroverted, sustainable learning environment that would combine innovation, a strong relationship with nature, hybrid and adaptable educational spaces, areas for interactive play, and a multisport athletic program. The aim was to create a vibrant and long-lasting school community where knowledge, “athlesis”, and the natural environment coexist.

The architectural proposal seeks to blur the boundaries between landscape and built environment. The main classroom buildings are conceived as two concentric embraces, forming two enclosed and protected courtyards: one dedicated to the Elementary School and one to the older students at the High School and IB. These two courtyards are both connected and distinct, reinforcing the students’ sense of belonging within the wider school community.

At the same time, the building complex addresses the urban frontage along the northern boundary of the site, where buildings of various uses come together to create an urban neighborhood. The courtyards open towards the south, allowing abundant natural light into the classrooms. Together with the sports courts, football pitch, and other open areas, they establish a natural connection with the park and the hills to the south of the plot. The outdoor amphitheater gradually transforms into bleachers for the football pitch and then becomes the roof of the High School building. In addition, an outdoor route is created on the planted roof of the Elementary School, linking the bleachers with the second plot across the intermediate road.

The planted roofs and terraces become extensions of the classroom experience, offering additional breakout spaces and hybrid corners for educational activities. At the heart of the complex, on the highest level, the library is conceived as a lighthouse of knowledge: a transparent welcoming volume that opens both towards the city and the park.

Color is introduced through the timber louvres of the façade, forming a color-code strategy that symbolizes the gradual progression of students from the younger classes towards adulthood. In this way, the school experience is conceived as a journey of knowledge, growth, and evolution.