Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center (SNFCC) is the most emblematic development that took place in Athens in the past decade. It is an enthralling cultural landmark that houses the Greek National Opera and the Greek National Library in a 210.000m² park.
This outstanding architectural feat was sponsored by Stavros Niarchos Foundation and designed by the visionary master architect Renzo Piano. Sustainability is at the heart of the design as the edifice is the first European public building on this scale to achieve LEED Platinum certification.
The exterior of the center is an invigorating cluster of pathways lined up with Mediterranean herbs, pines and olive trees, playgrounds, open space venues, sport facilities and a 400 meter canal, a figurative extension of the adjacent sea. A big surprise awaits the visitors who while enjoying their leisure walk realize that the green roof of the structure is actually a gently sloping park.
At the center of the Park is the Great Lawn, an open space for larger gatherings and a venue for concerts and festivals. The summit offers a stunning 360 degree view of the sea to the west and of Acropolis to the east whereas at ground level the complex overlooks to the Agora, the central plaza between the Opera House and the National Library.
The cutting edge facilities, the exterior design, are all masterminded to nurture the spirit, the soul and the body.