Type: cultural-renovation I Size: 541,96m2 I Location:  Votanikos, Athens I Status: Completed I Date: 2009

 

Aim of the project was the creation of a cultural center in the developing area of Votanikos, which would also include office spaces for the firm. For this purpose, an abandoned building (old service point) was chosen. The reintegration of the weak dynamic of a previously deprived area through the use of culture and arts was the motive behind the creation of Beton7.

 

Beton7 is a Center for the Arts based in Athens-Votanikos. It was founded in November 2009. Beton7 aims to promote cross-cultural communication in every area of contemporary art (including visual arts, theatre, music and cinema) within an emerging art neighborhood of Athens. Beton7 main contribution is the promotion of young artists by establishing the necessary conditions for them to create and present new work.

The mission is to enhance international collaborations with cultural organizations and institutions. Beton7 supports creative teams and runs educational programs for young artists and organizes educational seminars.

 

Beton7 presents drama, dance and stage performances supporting mainly the development of new forms of contemporary theatre; It aims to engage theatre with audiences and artists from a diverse range of backgrounds developing a cultural debate.

The building consists of four levels. A theatrical space was formed in the basement, and an open bar and gallery in ground level.The first floor is being used as a seminar space, whereas the center’s administration and ‘CREATENEWIDEAS’ architectural office occupy the second level.

 

The building’s style is mainly characterized as industrial and minimal, with black, white and grey profiles.

For the flooring, cement with filler was used along with the preservation of the existing mosaic in some spaces. Exposed concrete, cement and wood were selected for the shaping of the walls. Furthermore, the existing exposed pipes and frames were preserved.

 

 

Follow the link below to see the full video of Beton7 building: https://vimeo.com/128127422