Renovation of buiding
Basic information
Project Title
Renovation of buiding
Full project title
Renovation and reconstruction of building for cultural events and actions
Project Description
The Municipality of Gavdos bought in 2021 an abandoned building in the village of Vatsiana on Gavdos island,the southermost point of Europe.The building is at the center of this traditional village and its total image downgraded the whole area.Via funding programs such as LEADER and GREEN FUND we are trying to complete the project.We aim to create a cultural workshop (for traditional products),to have showcases for geological and archaeological findings,or host seminars,actions,etc
Current stage development
Prototype level
Project Region
Greece
Municipality
74030000: Municipal Commune of Gavdos (psevdo) (EL)
EU Programme or fund
Yes
Which funds
EAFRD : European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development
Description of the project
Summary
The initiative includes the purchase, management and construction of the Gavdos Cultural Laboratory. The overall objective of the initiative is to create a suitable cultural space that will meet the various needs of the border Municipality of Gavdos, in combination with the sanitation and beautification of the Vatsiana settlement, an emblematic part of the island, as the southernmost point of Greece and Europe. It will become a pole of attraction for the holding of various events. The equipment of the building will be suitable for the production and training of local dishes, with the aim of preserving the intangible heritage of the traditional cuisine of Gavdos. Furthermore, the exploitation of its unique location is expected to contribute to the study of astronomy as well as the geology of Gavdos.
In summary, the expected results are:
a) Upgrading the settlement of Vatsiana through the restoration of an unfinished, ugly and abandoned - with proportionally large dimensions - building, which "dominated" the area and was visible from most of the island.
b) We will have a cultural center for events, speeches, etc. as well as film or theater performances.
c) Preservation of traditional gastronomy and the traditional way of producing local dishes (e.g. kalitsounia, xerotigana, chylopites, etc.)
d) Promotion and protection of archaeological finds from the Paleolithic era and the rich geological finds of Gavdos, due to its location on the Eurasian plate.
e) It will contribute to the cultural and general education of all residents of our isolated island.
f) The reconstruction of the building may encourage young people to settle permanently in Vatsiana, a settlement of only 7-8 people at the moment.
In summary, the expected results are:
a) Upgrading the settlement of Vatsiana through the restoration of an unfinished, ugly and abandoned - with proportionally large dimensions - building, which "dominated" the area and was visible from most of the island.
b) We will have a cultural center for events, speeches, etc. as well as film or theater performances.
c) Preservation of traditional gastronomy and the traditional way of producing local dishes (e.g. kalitsounia, xerotigana, chylopites, etc.)
d) Promotion and protection of archaeological finds from the Paleolithic era and the rich geological finds of Gavdos, due to its location on the Eurasian plate.
e) It will contribute to the cultural and general education of all residents of our isolated island.
f) The reconstruction of the building may encourage young people to settle permanently in Vatsiana, a settlement of only 7-8 people at the moment.
Key objectives for sustainability
In the southernmost settlement of Europe, Vatsiana, where dozens of people lived a few decades ago, only a family with three children and three elderly people have been living there in recent years, facing the risk of total desertification.
As one of its primary goals, the initiative aims to contribute to the retention and attraction of new residents and the sustainability of the settlement.
Demographics are the most important problem that we are trying to address in Gavdos, with various actions and interventions.
The sustainability of Gavdos, with its significant geopolitical importance – do not forget that it is located at the crossroads of 3 continents – makes the need for the preservation and sustainability of the island imperative.
The choice of preserving the existing building is in line with the principles of sustainability, as there was a reduced need for the transportation and use of new materials in the settlement.
Part of the ground floor is intended as a space for the production of local products, preserving the rich knowledge of producing local dishes with traditional recipes by the women of Gavdos, so that local foods are constantly kept "alive". The promotion and protection of the intangible heritage of traditional cuisine is consistent with various other actions and contributes to the sustainability of our heritage.
Sustainability was addressed by promoting the use of recyclable materials, instead of producing waste.
The project has worked exemplary and has already acted as an incentive. After the start of construction work at the Cultural Workshop, two more buildings have been restored and other owners have expressed the desire to take care of their abandoned houses, looking forward to the sustainability of the settlement.
As one of its primary goals, the initiative aims to contribute to the retention and attraction of new residents and the sustainability of the settlement.
Demographics are the most important problem that we are trying to address in Gavdos, with various actions and interventions.
The sustainability of Gavdos, with its significant geopolitical importance – do not forget that it is located at the crossroads of 3 continents – makes the need for the preservation and sustainability of the island imperative.
The choice of preserving the existing building is in line with the principles of sustainability, as there was a reduced need for the transportation and use of new materials in the settlement.
Part of the ground floor is intended as a space for the production of local products, preserving the rich knowledge of producing local dishes with traditional recipes by the women of Gavdos, so that local foods are constantly kept "alive". The promotion and protection of the intangible heritage of traditional cuisine is consistent with various other actions and contributes to the sustainability of our heritage.
Sustainability was addressed by promoting the use of recyclable materials, instead of producing waste.
The project has worked exemplary and has already acted as an incentive. After the start of construction work at the Cultural Workshop, two more buildings have been restored and other owners have expressed the desire to take care of their abandoned houses, looking forward to the sustainability of the settlement.
Key objectives for aesthetics and quality
Vatsiana is a settlement with small one-story buildings made of local stone, some plastered and some not.
In recent decades, due to poverty and the barren land, the inhabitants of Gavdos were forced to abandon the island and the settlement shows an image of abandonment that creates negative feelings in visitors.
The Gavdos Cultural Workshop was the transformation of an abandoned building into an emblematic point in the southernmost European settlement, with the aim of contributing to the revitalization of the area.
Aesthetics and safety are ensured by the design team of the Technical Service of the Metropolitan Municipality of Chania, which has vast experience in complex constructions.
The primary goal is to reverse the overall process of abandonment.
The Municipality of Gavdos, by purchasing an important property, will construct a building for all citizens. A building that can provide education and information.
The view from the terrace on the first floor is unobstructed towards the sea, provoking the admiration of visitors. But also observing the starry sky with a telescope from that point at the edge of Europe, in the Mediterranean Sea is a unique experience.
It is the space that gives a unique opportunity to residents and visitors for cultural activities such as cinema, small theatrical events, etc.
In recent decades, due to poverty and the barren land, the inhabitants of Gavdos were forced to abandon the island and the settlement shows an image of abandonment that creates negative feelings in visitors.
The Gavdos Cultural Workshop was the transformation of an abandoned building into an emblematic point in the southernmost European settlement, with the aim of contributing to the revitalization of the area.
Aesthetics and safety are ensured by the design team of the Technical Service of the Metropolitan Municipality of Chania, which has vast experience in complex constructions.
The primary goal is to reverse the overall process of abandonment.
The Municipality of Gavdos, by purchasing an important property, will construct a building for all citizens. A building that can provide education and information.
The view from the terrace on the first floor is unobstructed towards the sea, provoking the admiration of visitors. But also observing the starry sky with a telescope from that point at the edge of Europe, in the Mediterranean Sea is a unique experience.
It is the space that gives a unique opportunity to residents and visitors for cultural activities such as cinema, small theatrical events, etc.
Key objectives for inclusion
Regarding inclusion and accessibility, the design team set a goal from the beginning of the work.
To provide easy access to the building for people with mobility limitations,a stair lift will be installed in the building in the near future.
There is also a toilet for people with mobility difficulties.
During the co-creation process, the team tried to include the widest and most diverse group of participants for the best result. The variety of activities that the building can host guarantees their inclusion.
We believe that the Gavdos Cultural Workshop will attract young and old locals as well as visitors who will come to the island to participate in the Workshop events.
By having display cases of archaeological finds, there will be a connection and interaction with the Archaeological Service and the University Community for the preservation and promotion of the archaeological wealth of Gavdos. The same applies to geological findings.
One of the main actions planned is the exchange of culinary knowledge with the new generations. A special knowledge that very few older women on the island have. This knowledge will be lost if we do not take the appropriate measures to preserve it. The young people of the island need to get to know our tradition and local values, which have been weakened due to the tourist development of recent years.
The Municipality of Gavdos, which is the owner and manager of the building, has the institutional and financial capacity to provide all services to all citizens free of charge, within the framework of its responsibilities.
We are happy because the culture of the small local community of Gavdos includes always acceptance and participation of all at all levels and will be strengthened by the project.
To provide easy access to the building for people with mobility limitations,a stair lift will be installed in the building in the near future.
There is also a toilet for people with mobility difficulties.
During the co-creation process, the team tried to include the widest and most diverse group of participants for the best result. The variety of activities that the building can host guarantees their inclusion.
We believe that the Gavdos Cultural Workshop will attract young and old locals as well as visitors who will come to the island to participate in the Workshop events.
By having display cases of archaeological finds, there will be a connection and interaction with the Archaeological Service and the University Community for the preservation and promotion of the archaeological wealth of Gavdos. The same applies to geological findings.
One of the main actions planned is the exchange of culinary knowledge with the new generations. A special knowledge that very few older women on the island have. This knowledge will be lost if we do not take the appropriate measures to preserve it. The young people of the island need to get to know our tradition and local values, which have been weakened due to the tourist development of recent years.
The Municipality of Gavdos, which is the owner and manager of the building, has the institutional and financial capacity to provide all services to all citizens free of charge, within the framework of its responsibilities.
We are happy because the culture of the small local community of Gavdos includes always acceptance and participation of all at all levels and will be strengthened by the project.
How Citizens benefit
The decision to purchase the building and convert it into a Cultural Workshop came after a dialogue discussion in the Municipal Council, which is a democratic collective body of a Municipality.
According to recent data, the population of the island consists of 50% locals and 50% people of various ethnicities who have chosen to live permanently in Gavdos, while some of them are digital nomads.
As for the locals, there is a percentage of elderly people who have lived their entire lives on the island and are the ones who can transmit the knowledge about this intangible heritage of Gavdos cuisine.
In recent years, due to the improvement of living conditions on the island, but also the number of jobs in the tourism industry and construction projects, it has given the opportunity to many younger who come from Gavdos, to return to the island.
Our initiative will contribute to the connection and interaction between everyone.
Opportunities for creative employment are limited on the island and there are not that many things for young people to do in their free time.
Thus, they will have the opportunity to gain knowledge and be creative in the future.
The area is also suitable for the development of agrotourism, where nutrition is an essential component.
On the other hand, the participation of people in the Cultural Workshop will give more strength to the few residents whose loneliness and isolation creates psychological problems and insecurity.
Also, by offering a telescope for photographs of the sky, archaeological and geological material, we will attract many more tourists and scientists for lectures, sky observation, etc.
According to recent data, the population of the island consists of 50% locals and 50% people of various ethnicities who have chosen to live permanently in Gavdos, while some of them are digital nomads.
As for the locals, there is a percentage of elderly people who have lived their entire lives on the island and are the ones who can transmit the knowledge about this intangible heritage of Gavdos cuisine.
In recent years, due to the improvement of living conditions on the island, but also the number of jobs in the tourism industry and construction projects, it has given the opportunity to many younger who come from Gavdos, to return to the island.
Our initiative will contribute to the connection and interaction between everyone.
Opportunities for creative employment are limited on the island and there are not that many things for young people to do in their free time.
Thus, they will have the opportunity to gain knowledge and be creative in the future.
The area is also suitable for the development of agrotourism, where nutrition is an essential component.
On the other hand, the participation of people in the Cultural Workshop will give more strength to the few residents whose loneliness and isolation creates psychological problems and insecurity.
Also, by offering a telescope for photographs of the sky, archaeological and geological material, we will attract many more tourists and scientists for lectures, sky observation, etc.
Innovative character
The innovative aspect was mainly in the approach of renovation instead of demolition of the building.
From the beginning, we were negative to any prospect of the ease of complete demolition.
Our effort was to preserve the facades, proving that it is possible to combine all architectural principles with the comfort and demands of modern life.
This is supported by the fact that the biggest challenge of any project in Gavdos has to do with the inability to find workers and the difficulty of transporting all the building materials from Crete.
It should be mentioned that Gavdos offers a unique clear view of the night sky, so that we can also offer the use of night sky and stargazing.
In an effort to have an environmentally friendly building, based on the principles of bioeconomy, we aim to use bioclimatic methods, such as:
- Photovoltaic panels
- Orientation according to the sun (from east to west) for the use of natural light during the winter and greater shade coverage in the summer.Fortunately, it was predicted at the original design
- rainwater collection and reuse
Another innovative advantage for the building in its space is its use as an exhibition center, but also as a place where we can train people in the production of local traditional products.
From the beginning, we were negative to any prospect of the ease of complete demolition.
Our effort was to preserve the facades, proving that it is possible to combine all architectural principles with the comfort and demands of modern life.
This is supported by the fact that the biggest challenge of any project in Gavdos has to do with the inability to find workers and the difficulty of transporting all the building materials from Crete.
It should be mentioned that Gavdos offers a unique clear view of the night sky, so that we can also offer the use of night sky and stargazing.
In an effort to have an environmentally friendly building, based on the principles of bioeconomy, we aim to use bioclimatic methods, such as:
- Photovoltaic panels
- Orientation according to the sun (from east to west) for the use of natural light during the winter and greater shade coverage in the summer.Fortunately, it was predicted at the original design
- rainwater collection and reuse
Another innovative advantage for the building in its space is its use as an exhibition center, but also as a place where we can train people in the production of local traditional products.
Disciplines/knowledge reflected
Gavdos, although a small isolated island, has a rich scientific interest. Archaeologists, geologists, anthropologists, environmentalists, architects and many other scientists have studied the island, its environment and its people.
The initiative aspires to be the basis and a nucleus for the collection of all the findings that have accumulated in the various scientific fields.
The original design of the building was created by mental health scientists 40 years ago, with a focus on maintaining the unobstructed view of the sea and the horizon. By maintaining the original design, the project is enriched and utilized by different sectors that interact with each other, giving each other added value.
The recent design consists of all the new architectural principles but also in the ability to satisfy different needs, such as having a space to host events with educational, scientific and recreational interest, presenting to our visitors all the archaeological and geological findings of Gavdos, and preserving our traditional cuisine.
All of the above needs could not be met on the island until now.
The initiative aspires to be the basis and a nucleus for the collection of all the findings that have accumulated in the various scientific fields.
The original design of the building was created by mental health scientists 40 years ago, with a focus on maintaining the unobstructed view of the sea and the horizon. By maintaining the original design, the project is enriched and utilized by different sectors that interact with each other, giving each other added value.
The recent design consists of all the new architectural principles but also in the ability to satisfy different needs, such as having a space to host events with educational, scientific and recreational interest, presenting to our visitors all the archaeological and geological findings of Gavdos, and preserving our traditional cuisine.
All of the above needs could not be met on the island until now.
Methodology used
The renovation of the building as a Cultural Workshop in the settlement of Vatsiana indicates future multicultural and social challenges on the island, proposing a set of cultural heritage activities. The renovation of the existing building has become a crucial tool to keep the built environment functional in all ways in a traditional settlement such as Vatsiana.
The renovation process was equivalent to the redevelopment of a new construction, as it required a variety of building materials and components, facilitated by various building services equipment. It was much more difficult to carry out a renovation process, especially when it was an older existing building, as it entailed a greater risk, both economic and environmental, for the traditional settlement of Vatsiana.
Due to the isolation of the island, there was increased difficulty in transporting materials and finding specialized personnel, which is reflected in the long duration required to complete the project
The overall renovation process was divided into four phases: pre-planning, design, construction and operation. At the current time period, we are in the construction phase.
First, the design team analyzed the building’s energy data to understand the building’s energy use and identified areas of energy waste, indoor climate, and other maintenance requirements to propose renovation measures.
Overall, the renovation of this building in Vatsiana was a complex process that required a thorough consideration of environmental, energy, water, and human health impacts.
The renovation process was equivalent to the redevelopment of a new construction, as it required a variety of building materials and components, facilitated by various building services equipment. It was much more difficult to carry out a renovation process, especially when it was an older existing building, as it entailed a greater risk, both economic and environmental, for the traditional settlement of Vatsiana.
Due to the isolation of the island, there was increased difficulty in transporting materials and finding specialized personnel, which is reflected in the long duration required to complete the project
The overall renovation process was divided into four phases: pre-planning, design, construction and operation. At the current time period, we are in the construction phase.
First, the design team analyzed the building’s energy data to understand the building’s energy use and identified areas of energy waste, indoor climate, and other maintenance requirements to propose renovation measures.
Overall, the renovation of this building in Vatsiana was a complex process that required a thorough consideration of environmental, energy, water, and human health impacts.
How stakeholders are engaged
The Municipality of Gavdos has limited financial resources.
For the implementation of the project, funds were sought from both the Region of Crete and from National and Eurorean resources.
Specifically:
- REGION OF CRETE: €78,000 for the purchase of the property (Financial Program "Construction of buildings and infrastructure - Redesign of social space")
- NATIONAL RESOURCES: €160,000 (Financial Program GREEN FUND) for the implementation of the project
- EUROPEAN FUNDS (Financial Program "Leader" - EFARD 2020): €37.200
- OWN CAPITAL: €50,000
For the implementation of the project, funds were sought from both the Region of Crete and from National and Eurorean resources.
Specifically:
- REGION OF CRETE: €78,000 for the purchase of the property (Financial Program "Construction of buildings and infrastructure - Redesign of social space")
- NATIONAL RESOURCES: €160,000 (Financial Program GREEN FUND) for the implementation of the project
- EUROPEAN FUNDS (Financial Program "Leader" - EFARD 2020): €37.200
- OWN CAPITAL: €50,000
Global challenges
The preservation of the almost unaltered natural environment of Gavdos allows us to design based on sustainability and the principles of bioeconomy. In current socio-cultural studies related to islands, the perspective and dimension of “seeing the world through the islands” continues to be dominant. Island society has its particularities and generalities worldwide. Our initiative aims at a cultural proposal for our island society, seeing the world through the prism of an isolated island like Gavdos, an island so close and at the same time so far from Crete. More and more tourists travel to Gavdos to enjoy “the island experience”. Gavdos remains largely untouched by tourism, therefore it is a paradise for those seeking solitude. It is a "hidden" gem of the Mediterranean and the aim of the initiative is to show that there is also a "hidden culture" in Gavdos, which is trying to become known.
Learning transferred to other parties
- Preserving Traditional Cuisine
By preserving these recipes, we not only keep a part of our intangible cultural heritage alive, but we also honor the hard work and traditions of our ancestors. When it comes to food, there is nothing like the taste of traditional and cultural dishes that have been passed down from generation to generation. These dishes not only offer a culinary experience, but also have great significance in their cultural context. One of the most exciting aspects of cultural cuisine is discovering the history behind these traditional recipes and cooking methods.
- Revival of Traditional Recipes
In a world where fast-paced lifestyles often dictate our food choices, the allure of traditional flavors can easily be overlooked. However, there is a captivating movement gaining momentum in the culinary sphere – a revival of traditional flavors that is sparking a renaissance in cuisines around the world. As we navigate the intricate tapestry of gastronomy, the rich history and authenticity of traditional cuisines triumphantly return to our tables.
- Sky and stargazing
Astrotourism is one of the latest tourism trends. It involves traveling to observe objects in the sky. Some activities involved in astrotourism include stargazing, astrophotography and learning astronomy. Gavdos offers magnificent views of the night sky and ensures that the outside environment is free from atmospheric and light pollution and the weather is clear, so that you can directly see an object in the sky.
- The building as a source of information (historical and tourist information center)
- Intention of neighboring owners to restore their properties
However, regarding the value and spatial capabilities of the building, we choose functional, social and technical reconstruction.
By preserving these recipes, we not only keep a part of our intangible cultural heritage alive, but we also honor the hard work and traditions of our ancestors. When it comes to food, there is nothing like the taste of traditional and cultural dishes that have been passed down from generation to generation. These dishes not only offer a culinary experience, but also have great significance in their cultural context. One of the most exciting aspects of cultural cuisine is discovering the history behind these traditional recipes and cooking methods.
- Revival of Traditional Recipes
In a world where fast-paced lifestyles often dictate our food choices, the allure of traditional flavors can easily be overlooked. However, there is a captivating movement gaining momentum in the culinary sphere – a revival of traditional flavors that is sparking a renaissance in cuisines around the world. As we navigate the intricate tapestry of gastronomy, the rich history and authenticity of traditional cuisines triumphantly return to our tables.
- Sky and stargazing
Astrotourism is one of the latest tourism trends. It involves traveling to observe objects in the sky. Some activities involved in astrotourism include stargazing, astrophotography and learning astronomy. Gavdos offers magnificent views of the night sky and ensures that the outside environment is free from atmospheric and light pollution and the weather is clear, so that you can directly see an object in the sky.
- The building as a source of information (historical and tourist information center)
- Intention of neighboring owners to restore their properties
However, regarding the value and spatial capabilities of the building, we choose functional, social and technical reconstruction.
Next steps
We believe that the building of our Cultural Workshop “belongs” to Gavdos as a source of creative imagination, according to the basic principles of Bauhaus.<br />
We have formed elegant geometric shapes in the building with respect for the traditional settlement of Vatsiana.<br />
All construction materials reflect the true nature of the island of Gavdos. The overall design of the building is minimal and characterized by an economical way of thinking.<br />
We want to achieve controlled financing for a productive and time-consuming project, with precise use of materials, simple and effective. Thus, the next steps of the Municipal Authority of Gavdos are to complete the construction and start using it as a Cultural Workshop, hosting as many activities as possible, providing the local culture and traditional values of the island over time.<br />
Sustainability Goal: We designed the building with bioclimatic features (building orientation, use of renewable energy sources,use of low consumption lamps, collection and reuse of rainwater).<br />
We should also mention that the building will be friendly to people with disabilities and aims to promote the interaction of the elderly women of Gavdos with the young men and women of the island, in a way to educate the young people in local tradition and culture.<br />
Elegance and quality of experience for visitors: With its elegant design, the building is an ornament to the settlement that has been declining in recent decades. The view and the ability to observe the horizon, as well as the night sky, from the southernmost point of Europe is simply... a unique experience.<br />
Infrastructure or public space
Yes
Political support
Yes
Monetary value awarded
No
