Masterplan designs for a mixed-use development in Thessaloniki, Greece, have been revealed. Foster + Partners has been appointed by developers, Dimand, to transform the historic FIX brewery, an iconic heritage landmark of industrial Thessaloniki, into a dynamic urban project that features vibrant public space, new homes, hotels, and a range of cultural amenities. Situated on the seafront by the city’s western port-gate, a walkable distance from the city-centre, the scheme will be part of a wider regeneration strategy for a transforming Thessaloniki.
Michael Jones, Senior Partner, Foster + Partners, said: “FIX Thessaloniki will be a major catalyst for urban regeneration across the city. Our design utilises the historic landmarks on the former industrial site to create a new destination with vibrant green public spaces and state-of-the-art amenities. The incorporation of a pedestrian and cyclist friendly public realm will maximise connectivity, as well as the civic and cultural potential of the area.”
Christos Antonopoulos, Partner, Foster + Partners, added: “It is a great honour and a privilege to be working on a project in my home country – especially one with such historical and cultural significance. Our design is informed by the importance of the site and celebrates its industrial heritage, with the use of earthenware brick, exposed concrete vaults, industrial inspired windows, and a form that reflects the development of the former FIX brewery over time.”
The landscaped public square is defined by a central water-feature and flanked by greenery. It connects with the base of both the new hotel and the residential building, which stand side-by-side. The hotel features terraces that overlook the public space, whilst the adjacent residential block offers sea views and incorporates landscaping into the fabric of the development’s design with shaded green terraces. The practice’s masterplan will also transform the former FIX brewery into a cultural heartland, with art galleries, museums, and hospitality spaces within the ex-industrial buildings.
Every space is designed to create unity between the outside and the inside. The terraces are an extension of the inside living areas, with their vaulted ceilings creating ample shade and protection from the elements, while also providing essential privacy to residents and guests alike. Sensitively incorporating elements from the nineteenth century vernacular of the brewery, such as the red-brick façades, vaulted ceilings, and arched metal-framed windows synthesises the architectural language of the site’s history into the development’s future, creating a harmonious dialogue between the two.
This development, a celebration of Thessaloniki’s heritage and culture, will play a part in the effort to create a sustainable architecture that matches the transforming nature of the city itself.
