SEE HOW IT WAS // SHARE CYPRUS 2024

On April 16th, the Nicosia Municipal Theater welcomed over 350 attendees for the 4th edition of the International Architecture Forum SHARE Cyprus 2024.

The event showcased a distinguished panel of architects and specialists, including Martin Gran from Snøhetta, Armand Paardekooper Overman of Mecanoo, and Sherif Tarabishy from Foster + Partners, alongside notable speakers from Cyprus, Norway, the Netherlands, the UK, France, Israel, Slovenia, and Romania.

 

 

The SHARE Cyprus 2024 Forum was organized by SHARE Architects, the largest network dedicated to architecture and construction professionals in Central and South Eastern Europe, together with the Cyprus Architects Association (CAA) and Cyprus Scientific and Technical Chamber (ETEK), with the support of Muskita (Official Partner), Zumtobel (Gold Partner) Volcano Stores, Maouris Oikoset and Ergo Home Group (National Partners), AGC Contractors, mobhaus, Korantina Homes, UDC Training Center (Sponsors) and University of Nicosia, Frederick University and Neapolis University Pafos (Educational Partners).

 

Official Opening

SHARE Cyprus 2024’s opening session was welcomed with warm addresses by the organizers:

• Florin Mindirigiu, Founder SHARE Architects, Romania
• Alkis Dikaios, President of Cyprus Architects Association
• Constantinos Constanti, President of Cyprus Scientific and Technical Chamber
• Christos Christodoulou, Founder of SIMPRAXIS, Cyprus
• Nearchos Kelpis, Commercial Manager Muskita Aluminium Industries

A short fragment of Alkis DIkaios, President of Cyprus Architects Association speech.

“On behalf of the Cyprus Architects Association it is with great pleasure and enthusiasm to be welcoming you once again to another prestigious SHARE Conference on Architecture. We are thrilled to be hosting a fourth year in a row this brilliant gathering of designers, creators, innovators and thought leaders in the field of architecture.

The opportunity to exchange ideas and knowledge, to come together and educate the Architectural community has been a timeless goal for the Cyprus Architects Association. Today’s SHARE Conference serves as a platform to achieve this goal. It provides the opportunity to explore the latest advancements, trends and challenges shaping the industry today. “

The complete welcoming lectures can be found here.

A short fragment of Constantinos Constanti, President of Cyprus Scientific and Technical Chamber speech.

“The quality of the built environment constitutes a public good. We are at a critical point where our profession needs a paradigm shift to ensure a resilient and sustainable future. At our core is the human experience, connecting the environment with the social and cultural way we live.

The Technical Chamber welcomes and supports conferences and forums with an international aspect like the one we have today, where experts, architects and practitioners present, discuss views and expertise with one single purpose – to improve our places and spaces as a means to better our lives and communities.

I hope today we will have the opportunity to share a vision for our next steps as practitioners in this new era. ”

The complete welcoming lecture can be read here.

 

 

 

SHARE Architects Ambassador for Cyprus

Christos Christodoulou, founder of SIMPRAXIS in Cyprus, has been named SHARE Architects Ambassador for Cyprus. He will play a pivotal role in advancing architectural discourse, promoting sustainable design, and forward-thinking design principles, as well as encouraging collaboration within the global SHARE Architects community.

 

 

 

Plenary Session #1

Great Speaker Presentations

PETER MURRAY, Founder of New London Architecture and Chairman of Temple Bar Trust, UK

| “London and the post-COVID city”

 

Case Studies: Canary Wharf, City of London, Nine Elms, Kings Cross, White City

Peter Murray brought a wealth of expertise to the discussion, particularly focusing on key areas such as Canary Wharf, City of London, Nine Elms, Kings Cross, and White City. His insights shed light on how the cityscape of London has evolved in response to COVID-19, addressing the shifting requirements of office spaces, the challenges and advantages of remote work, and the concept of the “15-minute city.” Through his presentation, Murray offered invaluable perspectives on navigating the complexities of urban planning and design in a post-pandemic world.

 

 

 

PAVLOS PHILIPPOU, Director J+A Philippou, Cyprus

| “Precedent; On the Architecture of Architecture”

 

Case Studies: Ayia Napa Marina (ANM), Limassol Master-Plan & Waterfront Master-Plan

Pavlos Philippou’s presentation delved into the intersection of historical context, architectural theory, and contemporary urban design. Through case studies such as Ayia Napa Marina (ANM) and the Limassol Master-Plan & Waterfront Master-Plan, Philippou explored how an in-depth comprehension of architectural history and theory informs the development of spatial and urban strategies. By drawing on historical precedents and theoretical insights, Pavlos demonstrated how this approach leads to the creation of more sophisticated and meaningful architectural solutions for the cityscape.

 

 

 

PANEL ON HEALTHCARE ARCHITECTURE

RALUCA ȘOAITA, Founder TESSERACT Architecture, Romania

| “Neuro-Architecture and the challenges of healthcare design”

 

Case Studies: County Hospital Sibiu, Marie Curie Hospital Bucharest, County Hospital Focsani

Raluca Șoaita delivered a presentation on the intricate relationship between neuroscience and architectural design within the context of healthcare facilities. Through case studies including the County Hospital Sibiu, Marie Curie Hospital Bucharest, and County Hospital Focsani, Soaita addressed the multifaceted challenges faced in healthcare design. By integrating insights from neuroscience into architectural principles, Raluca explored innovative approaches to optimize patient well-being, enhance healing environments, and improve the overall effectiveness of healthcare spaces.

 

 

 

EREZ ELLA, Founder HQ Architects, Israel

| “Health City & Urban Well-being: Integrated Healthcare Architecture”

 

Case Studies: Bat Yam Masterplan, Jaffa Gateway Masterplan, Sheba Medical Center

Through case studies including the Bat Yam Masterplan, Jaffa Gateway Masterplan, and Sheba Medical Center, Erez Ella explored the concept of the health city and its implications for healthcare architecture. The lecture envisioned a transformative approach to healthcare facilities, emphasizing their integration within the community and urban fabric. By reimagining the hospital as a dynamic and adaptive entity, Erez proposed a future where healthcare infrastructure evolves in harmony with technological advancements and urban development, ultimately fostering holistic well-being and urban vitality.

 

 

 

MARIOS CHRISTODOULIDES, Director SIMPRAXIS, Cyprus

| “3i Surgery Center”

 

 

 

CONVERSATION ON ‘Hospitals as evolving processes: designing for the unpredictability of healthcare and wellbeing.”

Panel guests:

• CHRISTOS CHRISTODOULOU, Founder SIMPRAXIS, Cyprus
• CONSTANTINOS CONSTANTI, President Cyprus Scientific and Technical Chamber
• RALUCA ȘOAITA, Founder TESSERACT Architecture, Romania
• CHRITSOS CHRISTODOULIDES, Director SIMPRAXIS, Cyprus

 

 

 

Plenary Session #2

Great Speaker Presentations

ELINA KRITIKOU and KENZO YAMASHITA, Co-Founders EKKY STUDIO ARCHITECTS, Cyprus

| “Breathing new life into the existing”

 

Case Studies: SEVEN Hotel Paris, MAP Hotel Nicosia, Villa the Cliff Hotel in Tunisia

The presentation explored the transformative power of redesign, reuse, and rehabilitation in architectural projects. Through case studies including the SEVEN Hotel Paris, MAP Hotel Nicosia, and Villa the Cliff Hotel in Tunisia, Elina and Kenzo delved into the challenges and rewards of working with existing buildings. They highlighted the intricacies of designing within established conditions, the inherent beauty in revitalizing forgotten spaces, and the sustainability inherent in this approach. Their presentation offered insights into how architectural interventions can breathe new vitality into the built environment while preserving its historical and cultural significance.

 

 

 

DEAN LAH, Founder ENOTA ARCHITECTS, Slovenia

| “Natural Systems”

 

Case Studies: Češča Vas Pool Complex, Hotel Maestoso

Through case studies including the Češča Vas Pool Complex and Hotel Maestoso, Dean Lah elucidated the concept of deriving inspiration from natural systems. The main thrust of the presentation lay in transcending conventional architectural practices by drawing upon the inherent efficiency and elegance of natural processes. Dean advocated for a shift towards a holistic approach to design, where the complexities of nature serve as a blueprint for creating simple yet effective architectural solutions. By harnessing the wisdom of natural systems, he posited that architects can usher in a new era of sustainable and harmonious built environments.

 

 

 

ISABEL VAN HAUTE, Founding Partner Coldefy Architects, France

| “Place Making”

 

Case Studies: Fondation de Chine, Hong Kong Design Institute, Oasi

Isabel Van Haute illustrated the transformative power of place-making in architecture through case studies including Fondation de Chine, Hong Kong Design Institute, and Oasis. The lecturer addressed the intricate process of crafting environments that foster community engagement, cultural identity, and human connection. Isabel delved into the methodologies and principles employed in each case study, emphasizing the role of architecture in shaping the social, economic, and environmental fabric of our cities.

 

 

 

SHERIF TARABISHY, Associate Partner at Foster + Partners, UK

| “Lusail Towers: Streamlining Collaboration Through Technology”

 

Case Study: Lusail Towers

Sherif Tarabishy explored the intersection of digital innovation and architectural design, using the Lusail Towers project as a primary case study. Tarabishy’s keynote delved into how advanced technology facilitates collaboration in the creation of intricate architectural designs, particularly focusing on complex facades. The presentation showcased the direct application of innovative digital tools in architecture, aligning with the session’s emphasis on enhancing collaboration through technological advancements. Tarabishy demonstrated how various design principles and constraints are integrated seamlessly using advanced computational tools, emphasizing the project’s complex geometry and environmental considerations. Through this exploration, Sherif illustrated the transformative impact of technology on architectural practice, enabling more efficient and dynamic collaboration across disciplines.

 

 

 

Technical presentation in the second session

Standing ovations for our partners and supporters have innovative technical presentations, arousing the interest and curiosity of the public.

TODOR RACHEV, Brand Manager Architectural Lighting CEE ZUMTOBEL | ”We make light work”

 

 

 

CONVERSATION ON “BEAUTIFUL I SUSTAINABLE I TOGETHER”

Panel guests:

• ANDREAS VARDAS, Founder VARDASTUDIO, Cyprus
• ELINKA KRITIKOU, Co-founder EKKY STUDIO, Cyprus
• KENZO YAMASHITA, Co-founder EKKY STUDIO, Cyprus
• DEAN LAH, Founder ENOTA Architects, Slovenia
• ISABEL VAN HAUTE, Founding Partner Coldefy Architects, France
• SHERIF TARABISHY, Associate Partner Foster + Partners, UK
• TODOR RACHEV, Brand Manager Architectural Lighting CEE ZUMTOBEL

 

 

 

Plenary Session #3

Great Speaker Presentations

ELENA PAROUTI, Co-Founder Epitessera Architects, Cyprus

| “The emotion of Space”

 

Case Studies: AK private residence , SKY_5, Limassol Gardens

Elena Parouti Parouti explored how different types of spaces evoke distinct emotional responses. The guest emphasized the significance of considering emotions in architectural design, highlighting the challenges and nuances inherent in designing private residences, apartment buildings, and unified residential developments. By delving into the interplay between architecture and emotion, Elena offered insights into creating spaces that not only fulfill functional needs but also resonate deeply with inhabitants, enhancing their quality of life and overall sense of well-being.

 

 

 

MARIOS ECONOMIDES, Director MEMA Architects, Cyprus

| “Building and Landscape – A narrative in contextualism”

 

Case Study: KAVO GKREKO VISITOR CENTRE

Marios Economides elucidated how the material composition of the building engages in a dialogue with the natural elements of the landscape. The presentation highlighted the deliberate contrast between the powerful physicality of the building’s exterior and the serene interior, aiming to underscore the dialectic relationship between the expansiveness of the landscape and the intimacy of architectural space. Economides also discussed how time and weather leave their imprint on the building’s materiality, further enhancing its integration with the surrounding environment.

 

 

 

ARMAND PAARDEKOOPER OVERMAN, Associate Partner MECANOO, The Netherlands

| “Built to develop”

 

Case Studies: Rotterdam harbor, Green Village, Habitat Royale

Through case studies including Rotterdam Harbor, Green Village, and Habitat Royale, Paardekooper Overman explored projects that prioritize sustainable development and harmonious integration with nature. Habitat Royale exemplified a residential project where nature takes precedence, with design principles informed by the study of local flora and fauna. The Green Village served as a pioneering testing ground for urban and architectural innovations, including buildings designed to enhance environmental sustainability by absorbing more carbon and nitrogen than they produce. The presentation underscored the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration among designers, consultants, researchers, policymakers, contractors, and developers. Additionally, it addressed the challenges posed by existing policies and regulations in fostering innovation and excellence in architectural design and urban development.

 

 

MARTIN GRAN, Partner Snøhetta, Norway

| “People, Process and Projects”

 

Case Studies: Shanghai Grand Opera, Under, and Le Monde HQ

Martin Gran offered insights into the interdisciplinary approach to design and sustainability practiced by the renowned architectural firm. Through case studies including the Shanghai Grand Opera, Under, and Le Monde HQ, he delved into Snøhetta’s methodology and culture, emphasizing the integration of architecture, landscape, interior, product, and graphic design. The keynote highlighted Snøhetta’s commitment to social, environmental, and economic sustainability, which informs their pursuit of enhancing social interaction and improving society. He showcased a range of projects, from large-scale and complex undertakings to intricate facade designs and smaller yet impactful projects that influence societal dynamics. By exploring the collaborative nature of Snøhetta’s work and its dedication to trans-disciplinary thinking, the presentation offered valuable insights into the role of design in shaping the built environment and fostering sustainable communities.

 

 

Technical presentation in the third session

Standing ovations for our partners and supporters have innovative technical presentations, arousing the interest and curiosity of the public.

IFIGENIA IOANNOU, Architect Porfyrios Glass | ”Porfyrios PowerGlass: Building Integrated PhotoVoltaics”

 

 

 

CONVERSATION ON “THE POETICS OF SPACE”

Panel guests:

• ERACLIS PAPACHRISTOU, Founder Eraclis Papachristou Architects, Cyprus
• ALKIS DIKAIOS, President of Cyprus Architects Association
• ELENA PAROUTI, Co-Founder Epitessera Architects, Cyprus
• MARIOS ECONOMIDES, Director MEMA Architects, Cyprus
• ARMAND PAARDEKOOPER OVERMAN, Associate Partner MECANOO, The Netherlands
• MARTIN GRAN, Partner Snøhetta, Norway

 

 

We want to thank and give a special round of applause to the amazing moderators of the SHARE Cyprus 2024 Forum, Markella Menikou, Charis Solomou and Chrystala Psathiti!

 

SHARE Architects Network – Connecting architects and contractors in Central and South Eastern Europe

Over the past 25 years, SHARE Architects forums have become a key networking platform for architects and constructors in Central and South Eastern Europe. SHARE provides a useful framework for knowledge and understanding of the diversity of modern architectural phenomena. Currently, SHARE Architects events are held in 16 countries and have developed a community of over 50,000 professionals around them.