How come building materials that remind of construction sites (tmt bars, framing lumber, concrete), are able to create a welcoming environment with interesting qualities of space that refer to a modern playground? In our proposal for Karamuza Bar Garden in Maroussi, we created a playground, a pattern of simple geometric shapes that are repeated in different sizes depending on their use.
The conceptual connection of these materials to the building site is altered, allowing a different design approach to the furniture. The tmt bars are not hidden; they are a prominent parts of the furniture. As a unit of the furniture’s structure, they allow it to be simple and stable, without the need for supportive components, due to their high strength and ductility. Concrete is in dialogue with the tmt bars, covering the structure where it is needed and giving plasticity to the forms. Framing lumber completes the furniture. The use of these materials redefines the furniture and produces original items. Modular furniture creates a new image each time, whichever combination is installed. This way, each group of friends can create a unique composition and experience the space differently.
Another important element of our proposal is the three-leveled concrete stage. Design factors were the atmosphere of the public square and the view of the space from above. We designed an open space installation by removing and adding volumes, always taking into account the gradient of the ground. The varied shapes and volumes created can be used either as a seat, or a table, or a back, adapting to the number of people who are using it.
