The continuous building system that is adopted in the major part of the greek city has created a system of hidden and inactive inner courtyards (‘akalyptos’). This research project argues that despite its current situation the ‘akalyptos’ may prove to be a valuable urban renewal tool due to its potential resilience and flexibility and to serve as a prime object in the formation of effective sustai
nable environment in the city. Planning and designing a network of open spaces adjacent with existing properties, especially in the historic center of Thessaloniki, combined with a series of citizen-centered functions and the qualitative upgrading of everyday life is a challenging project and a subject of systematic interdisciplinary research. Such small or medium scale interventions which aim at the enrichment of the city’s green infrastructure may be more feasible economically and technically and may be easily absorbed by the community. The research was initiated by 40.22.ARCHITECTS: Papadopoulou + Tsakalidou, an architectural studio based right in the historic center of Thessaloniki. Their intention was to explore inactive open spaces, which are observed in their direct surroundings, aiming at their potential reclamation, creative re-use and integration with the citizens’ everyday life. The interdisciplinary research team today consists of professor I. Tsalikidis, School of Agriculture, Forestry and Natural Environment of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Dr. A. Papadopoulou, Dr. V. Tsakalidou, E. Disli, P. Petridis and ass.professor A. Kyriazis, Abu Dhabi University.
