Public Spaces
Pharmacy
Location
Heraklion, Crete
Area
340 sq.m.
Year
2008-2010
Status
Completed
Project Manager
Galetakis Giorgos
Grigorakis Vangelis
Anagnostakis Giorgos
Grigorakis Vangelis
Anagnostakis Giorgos
Architect
Tzanaki Eleutheria
Site Supervision
Galetakis Giorgos
Photography
@Erieta Attali, Tzanaki Eleutheria
Nestled in a bustling urban setting, the Pharmacy building stands as a modern architectural marvel, redefining the traditional retail space with its innovative design and thoughtful integration of contrasting elements. The design of the building revolves around the concept of the “white cube” enriched with subtractive elements, creating a dynamic and visually striking structure. Embracing a minimalist aesthetic, the building achieves a delicate balance through the juxtaposition of opposing elements: white and black, solidity and void, transparency and opacity, glossy and matte textures. Spanning three levels, the Pharmacy building is meticulously planned to optimize space and functionality. The ground floor serves as the main retail area, characterized by a spacious double-height ceiling that enhances the sense of openness and invites natural light to flood the interior.
This expansive ground level provides an inviting atmosphere for customers while accommodating a range of products and services. The upper floors, albeit with a reduced footprint compared to the ground level, maintain an efficient layout to support administrative offices, storage facilities, or additional retail space as required. The strategic placement of these floors ensures seamless connectivity and operational efficiency within the building. A defining feature of the building is its dematerialized corner, which challenges conventional architectural norms. This dissolved corner is achieved through the use of sleek, glossy black granite, creating a dynamic visual presence that contrasts sharply with the surrounding white cubic structure. The horizontal linearity of the granite further accentuates the building’s modern aesthetic and adds a sense of movement to its facade.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the building integrates sustainable design principles. Natural ventilation and energy-efficient lighting systems are seamlessly integrated into the structure, reducing environmental impact while enhancing occupant comfort and well-being. The design’s commitment to sustainability underscores its role as a responsible urban development. It represents a harmonious convergence of architectural innovation, functional efficiency, and aesthetic sophistication. Through its distinctive design language and meticulous attention to detail, the building not only redefines the urban landscape but also sets a new standard for contemporary retail architecture.
Whether admired for its striking visual presence or appreciated for its practical functionality, the Pharmacy building stands as a testament to the transformative power of thoughtful architectural design in urban environments.
Nestled in a bustling urban setting, the Pharmacy building stands as a modern architectural marvel, redefining the traditional retail space with its innovative design and thoughtful integration of contrasting elements. The design of the building revolves around the concept of the “white cube” enriched with subtractive elements, creating a dynamic and visually striking structure. Embracing a minimalist aesthetic, the building achieves a delicate balance through the juxtaposition of opposing elements: white and black, solidity and void, transparency and opacity, glossy and matte textures. Spanning three levels, the Pharmacy building is meticulously planned to optimize space and functionality. The ground floor serves as the main retail area, characterized by a spacious double-height ceiling that enhances the sense of openness and invites natural light to flood the interior.
This expansive ground level provides an inviting atmosphere for customers while accommodating a range of products and services. The upper floors, albeit with a reduced footprint compared to the ground level, maintain an efficient layout to support administrative offices, storage facilities, or additional retail space as required. The strategic placement of these floors ensures seamless connectivity and operational efficiency within the building. A defining feature of the building is its dematerialized corner, which challenges conventional architectural norms. This dissolved corner is achieved through the use of sleek, glossy black granite, creating a dynamic visual presence that contrasts sharply with the surrounding white cubic structure. The horizontal linearity of the granite further accentuates the building’s modern aesthetic and adds a sense of movement to its facade.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the building integrates sustainable design principles. Natural ventilation and energy-efficient lighting systems are seamlessly integrated into the structure, reducing environmental impact while enhancing occupant comfort and well-being. The design’s commitment to sustainability underscores its role as a responsible urban development. It represents a harmonious convergence of architectural innovation, functional efficiency, and aesthetic sophistication. Through its distinctive design language and meticulous attention to detail, the building not only redefines the urban landscape but also sets a new standard for contemporary retail architecture.
Whether admired for its striking visual presence or appreciated for its practical functionality, the Pharmacy building stands as a testament to the transformative power of thoughtful architectural design in urban environments.