The Ellinikon Project: Transforming Athens’ Former Airport into a Global Landmark

Athens, a city steeped in history and culture, is undergoing a monumental transformation through the Ellinikon Project. The site of the former Ellinikon International Airport, which was once the gateway to Greece, is being reimagined into a sprawling urban development that promises to be one of the largest and most ambitious regeneration projects in Europe. Let’s discover everything there is to know about the Ellinikon Project, from its historical context to its future impact on Athens and beyond.

Everything there is to know about the Ellinikon Project

Historical Background: The Legacy of Ellinikon Airport

Ellinikon International Airport, located approximately 7 kilometers southwest of Athens city center, served as the primary airport for the Greek capital from 1938 until its closure in 2001. The airport was a symbol of modernity and progress in Greece, particularly during the post-World War II era when international air travel became more accessible.

Designed by the famous Finnish-American architect Eero Saarinen, Ellinikon’s terminal was considered an architectural marvel of its time. However, as Athens grew and air traffic increased, the airport’s facilities became insufficient. By the late 1990s, it was clear that a new airport was needed, leading to the construction of Athens International Airport (Eleftherios Venizelos), which opened in 2001. With the new airport’s inauguration, Ellinikon was decommissioned, leaving behind a vast expanse of unused land.

 

The Vision: Reimagining Urban Space

The Ellinikon Project, which is often described as the largest urban regeneration project in Europe, aims to transform the 6.2 million square meter (1,530 acres) site of the former airport into a modern, sustainable city within a city. The project is spearheaded by Lamda Development, a leading real estate development company in Greece, in collaboration with various international and local partners.

The master plan for Ellinikon includes a mix of residential, commercial, cultural, and recreational spaces, all designed with a focus on sustainability, innovation, and quality of life. The project is expected to create more than 10,000 new homes, a 200-hectare park, shopping centers, hotels, and a wide range of cultural and entertainment venues. Once completed, Ellinikon will not only be a new hub for Athens but also a global destination for visitors from around the world.

The 15-Minute City Concept at Ellinikon

The Ellinikon Project is designed around the concept of a “15-minute city,” where residents can access all essential services and amenities within a 15-minute walk or bike ride from their homes. This urban planning approach promotes sustainability, convenience, and community well-being. In Ellinikon, this means that schools, healthcare facilities, parks, shops, and entertainment venues are all integrated into the neighborhood, reducing reliance on cars and fostering a more connected, livable community.

 

Key Components of the Ellinikon Project

The Metropolitan Park:

One of the most significant features of the Ellinikon Project is the creation of a vast 200-hectare (494 acres) metropolitan park, which will be one of the largest urban parks in Europe. The park is designed to integrate seamlessly with the surrounding urban environment, providing green spaces, sports facilities, playgrounds, and areas for cultural events. The park will serve as the “lungs” of the development, offering a natural retreat for residents and visitors. Christmas Festivities at Ellinikon Experience Park. 

Comparison with Hyde Park and Central Park:

To understand the scale of the Ellinikon Park, it’s helpful to compare it with other iconic urban parks. Hyde Park in London covers 142 hectares (350 acres), making it smaller than Ellinikon’s planned park. Central Park in New York City, one of the most famous urban parks globally, spans 341 hectares (843 acres), still less than the Ellinikon Park.

While Hyde Park is known for its rich history, serene landscapes, and cultural events, Central Park is celebrated for its diverse landscapes, from woodlands to meadows, and its role as an urban oasis in the heart of Manhattan. The Ellinikon Park, by comparison, aims to blend these qualities, offering both vast green spaces and areas for cultural and recreational activities, with a distinct focus on sustainability. It will be a modern park designed to meet the needs of 21st-century urban life while preserving the natural beauty and ecological balance of the area.

Residential Developments:

The project includes a variety of residential options, ranging from luxury villas to affordable housing units. The residential areas are designed to promote a sense of community, with pedestrian-friendly streets, open spaces, and easy access to amenities. The architecture will blend modern design with elements that reflect the local Greek heritage, creating a unique and attractive living environment.

In particular, two key components stand out: the Tower at Ellinikon and the Little Athens neighborhood. These residential areas are not just homes but are integral parts of a vision that blends sustainability, community, and modernity.

The Tower at Ellinikon: A New Icon on the Athens Skyline

The Tower at Ellinikon, often referred to as the Riviera Tower, is set to become the tallest building in Greece and one of the tallest in the Mediterranean. Designed by Foster + Partners, the Tower will feature 50 floors of 173 luxury residences, including one- to five-bedroom apartments and penthouses. The building is pre-certified for LEED Gold, emphasizing its commitment to sustainability through climate-conscious design and advanced biophilic architecture.

 

Key Features:

Architectural Design: Designed by the internationally renowned architectural firm Foster + Partners, the Tower at Ellinikon is a masterpiece of modern architecture. The design combines sleek, minimalist aesthetics with functional elegance, featuring clean lines and extensive use of glass to maximize natural light and offer panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and the Athens cityscape. The Tower is not just a residential building but a landmark that redefines the Athens skyline.

Sustainability: Sustainability is a core principle in the design of the Tower. The building will incorporate advanced green technologies, including energy-efficient systems, rainwater harvesting, and solar panels, ensuring that it meets high environmental standards. The Tower’s construction will use sustainable materials, and its design prioritizes natural ventilation and light, reducing the overall carbon footprint.

Luxury Living: The Tower will house luxury apartments with top-tier amenities. Residents can expect spacious interiors, state-of-the-art appliances, and access to exclusive facilities such as a rooftop garden, swimming pools, fitness centers, and concierge services. The apartments are designed to cater to both local and international buyers looking for a high-end urban lifestyle.

Community Integration: Although the Tower is a symbol of luxury, it is also designed to integrate with the broader community within the Ellinikon development. The ground floors of the Tower will feature retail spaces, cafes, and public areas, making it a lively hub for both residents and visitors. This integration of residential and commercial spaces fosters a sense of community and ensures that the Tower is a vibrant part of the Ellinikon neighborhood.

Little Athens Neighborhood: A Modern Village within the City

While the Tower at Ellinikon represents luxury and modernity, the Little Athens neighborhood offers a different but equally compelling residential experience. Designed to evoke the charm of traditional Athenian neighborhoods, Little Athens is a carefully planned community that combines the best of urban living with a village-like atmosphere.

Key Features:

Urban Village Concept: Little Athens is inspired by the traditional neighborhoods of central Athens, such as Plaka and Koukaki, known for their narrow streets, charming squares, and close-knit communities. The design of Little Athens reflects these qualities, with pedestrian-friendly streets, small parks, and communal spaces where residents can gather and interact. The neighborhood aims to create a sense of belonging and community, making it an ideal place for families and individuals seeking a more intimate urban environment.

Residential Diversity: The neighborhood includes various housing options, from apartments to family homes, spread across five residential complexes. For instance, the ‘Park Rise’ building, designed by Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG), is a 12-story structure offering 88 residences, while ‘Pavilion Terraces’ and ‘Promenade Heights’ provide additional living spaces with ground-floor retail.

Amenities and Services: Residents of Little Athens will have access to a wide range of amenities, including schools, healthcare facilities, and recreational centers. The neighborhood will also feature local shops, cafes, and restaurants, ensuring that residents have everything they need within walking distance. The design of Little Athens prioritizes convenience and accessibility, making it a self-sufficient community within the larger Ellinikon development.

Green Spaces and Sustainability: Like the rest of the Ellinikon Project, Little Athens is committed to sustainability. The neighborhood will feature ample green spaces, including small parks and gardens, which contribute to a healthy and pleasant living environment. Sustainable building practices and materials will be used throughout the neighborhood, ensuring that it meets modern environmental standards.

Connectivity and Accessibility: Little Athens is strategically located within the Ellinikon development, offering easy access to public transportation and major roadways. This ensures that residents can easily commute to the city center or other parts of Athens while enjoying the tranquility of a more suburban-like environment.

Commercial and Business Districts:

Ellinikon will feature state-of-the-art commercial spaces, including office buildings, shopping malls, and entertainment centers such as the Hard Rock casino. The commercial districts are designed to attract both local and international businesses, making Ellinikon a new economic hub for Athens. The project also includes provisions for the development of a 400-berth marina, which will cater to the growing demand for luxury yachting in the Mediterranean.

Cultural and Recreational Facilities:

Culture and recreation are at the heart of the Ellinikon Project. Plans include the construction of museums, theaters, galleries, and sports facilities, all of which will contribute to the cultural richness of the area. The project also envisions the creation of an innovation hub, fostering creativity and technological advancement in Greece.

Sustainability and Smart City Features:

Sustainability is a key priority for the Ellinikon Project. The development will incorporate cutting-edge green technologies, such as renewable energy sources, smart grids, and waste management systems. The buildings will be designed to meet high environmental standards, with a focus on energy efficiency, water conservation, and the use of sustainable materials. In addition, the project will feature extensive use of smart city technologies, including intelligent transportation systems, smart lighting, and advanced security features.

Economic and Social Impact

The Ellinikon Project is expected to have a significant economic impact on Athens and Greece as a whole. The development is projected to create thousands of jobs, both during the construction phase and in the long term, as businesses and services establish themselves in the area. The project will also attract significant foreign investment, boosting Greece’s economy and enhancing its global profile.

Socially, Ellinikon is poised to transform the quality of life for Athenians. The project will address the housing needs of the city’s growing population, while also providing new recreational and cultural opportunities. The development’s emphasis on sustainability and green spaces will contribute to a healthier urban environment, improving air quality and reducing the urban heat island effect.

Conclusion

The Ellinikon Project is a transformative endeavor that aims to reshape the urban landscape of Athens. From its roots as a bustling airport to its future as a thriving metropolitan hub, Ellinikon represents the convergence of history, innovation, and sustainability. As the project unfolds, it will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on Athens, setting a new standard for urban development and regeneration worldwide. Whether you’re a resident of Athens, a potential investor, or simply someone interested in the future of cities, the Ellinikon Project is a story worth following.