ENVIRONMENTAL CENTER AT LARNACA SALT LAKE
FACTS + CREDITS
DESIGN ΤΕΑΜ: KYRIAKOS MLTIADOU, HRISTOS HADJICHRISTOS, RAFAIL SARMALLIS, DAVID LOUIS PERRERA
AWARD: HONORABLE MENTION
STATUS: COMPETIOTION ENTRY
PLACE: LARNACA
YEAR: 2026
Central Idea
The role of the Environmental Education Centre is to introduce the Larnaca Salt Lakes to visitors in its own distinctive way, while acknowledging that it is not the “owner” of the site, but also a “guest.” Through architectural means, the design explores relationships such as those between the city and the park, the built and the natural, and information and experience. Like a heron with its body slightly elevated and its head stretched upwards for optimal visual connection with its surroundings, the building sits on a raised platform where spaces are arranged in a linear sequence as independent “boxes.” The composition gradually rises toward the point with the best view of the salt lakes, where the reception and exhibition hall are located, appearing to “flow” out of the rest of the building and commanding the surrounding area. Acting as an observatory, the building has visual access to the salt lakes and, through its form, materials, and colors, respectfully engages with the landscape.
The Platform
Elevated 1.5 meters above ground, the platform improves views of the salt lakes while minimally interrupting the natural terrain, reducing impact on the local ecosystem. It connects to the ground via metal ramps and stairs with minimal footprint. All spaces are located on the platform, except for the café, which remains at ground level.
The “Boxes”
The spaces appear as independent volumes resting on the platform. One side connects to the interior, while the other projects outside the transparent envelope, acting as intermediaries between the southern side facing the salt lakes and the northern part of the park adjacent to the city. The composition allows future expansion northwards without affecting the rest of the building.
Entrance and Reception
Positioned in the most privileged location on the site, the transparent envelope creates visual connections with the landscape, allowing a direct correlation between the site model and the interior space.
Exhibition Hall
Located with the reception area to maximize panoramic views. Instead of permanent walls, mobile display elements are used for objects or two-dimensional images, with adjustable positioning depending on the exhibition. Natural lighting is controlled with internal shading systems. The space can expand in both area and height without impacting the rest of the building.
Shop and Ticket Office
Integrated into the reception area, serving their functional needs efficiently.
Offices, Staff Facilities, and Kitchen
Their position allows supervision of the reception and shop while maintaining relative isolation and visual contact with the quieter northern part of the park.
Café and Outdoor Seating
The only space at ground level, it connects with the western landscaped park while preserving uninterrupted views of the salt lakes.
Lecture and Screening Room
Directly accessible from the reception. The southern façade can open to the circulation area to accommodate alternative activities. Natural lighting is adjusted with internal shading according to the activity.
Library and Laboratory
Located at the building’s midpoint, working collaboratively and potentially connecting with the education hall when required. The library can operate independently or visually connect with the northern park.
Environmental Education Room
At the building’s most remote point, with direct access to the southern outdoor park area. It can operate relatively independently from the more social spaces of the reception and café. Natural lighting is managed with shading devices.
