Θήρα & Santorini _ a bioclimatic coexistence in Kamari

This Diploma project is taking place in the island of Santorini where after the 60s, the economy source changes as tourism seems to be the only easy and fast way to achieve economic growth. The current situation of Santorini gives you the impression of an ongoing construction, that tends to cover every surface, even in places away from the impressive caldera. Visitors have been converted into image collectors, with no interaction with the locals. Public spaces have been privatized and fenced off, with the local needs being subordinated to the economic benefits of tourism.

The intention of this project is to activate the public space in Kamari area, in which tourism and locals could coexist equally. The proposal is the design of a hybrid public space between park, square and a pole of alternative urban activities that would function all year round. A hybrid system consisting of different uses and spatial qualities is encouraging the visitors to be familiarized with local life and create a hybrid vegetated and bioclimatic character of public space. The project is about creating a landscaped whole with canopies, shelters and natural textures to enjoy open air life in the island. The local summer drought is solved by a rainwater collection tank for the park’s needs. The final result offers a space where locals, visitors, tourists and traditional life could coexist below a pleasant urban landscape.