Dasoupolis High School Competition Entry
The architecture of a school should function not only as a building with classrooms and labs etc., but also as a place of communication between students, teachers and visitors, generating a sense of place, an educational community.
The basic conceptual and organizational idea of the design of this competition entry for the replacement for an existing high school was meant to be an expression of what was previously mentioned, by the generating of a central shaded pedestrian axis running from the south facing main entrance to the high school complex through to the northern secondary entrance. A secondary axis is generated running east west which connects the existing pedestrian overpass to the reconfigured athletic fields. The cross road of these axis, is defined by stairs, bridges and elevators which provide direct access to common facilities such as an outdoor amphitheater, cafeteria, teachers lounge and student gathering spaces.
The architectural form of the steel canopy, which protects the primary pedestrian axis, is widened and tilted upward at the main entrance as a visual and symbolic welcoming gesture towards all who enter the school.
Community related functions such as the all purpose hall and library are located adjacent to the main entrance of the entire complex.