QualityThrough Sustainable Practices During the Design and Construction Phase- the case of the SNFCC

Abstract

This paper is based on a research thesis project presented at the School of Architecture at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, referring to the sustainable design and construction of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center (SNFCC), in Athens. SNFCC is considered to be a unique building project with exceptional environmental standards in the field of the Greek construction industry. It is estimated that the overall project design has set the highest environmental goals and international standards which are summarized in the following principles: strict compliance with the Environmental Impact Study and the Environmental Terms approved by Greek Authorities, achievement of the Platinum LEED certification, compliance with the highest international environmental standards. An attempt is made to investigate how these principles are applied both in design and in everyday construction activities. The design approach of the buildings of the Greek National Opera and the National Library is environment-friendly, with high-energy performances and water efficiency. The photovoltaic canopy, the green roofs, the biodiversity and the quality of the local environment at the Stavros Niarchos Park, as well as the flood protection of the Canal are some of the innovative practices provided during the design phase. However, in order to achieve the environmental targets of the project, there are responsibilities and detailed procedures to be followed, so as to implement the proper measures against any potential hazard during the construction. A great variety of measures are installed and maintained, such as the initial clearance of site, the construction waste management, the erosion, the sedimentation and the dust control, the protection of existing public drainage networks and public areas against sedimentation, the prevention of polluting the air with dust, the cleaning of the nearby public road network, the noise control and the pedestrian public access bridge. The presentation seeks to find the new – for Greece – design and construction practices to be established in a new building model, with elements of sustainable development.