Objective
The main objective of this project is the improvement of the interior of the old Central Market of Athens as regards heating, ventilation and daylight. The building, built in 1876, will be modernised in a manner respectful of its magnificent architecture.
The renovation proposal studied in the model incorporates various passive and active technologies to store thermal energy and maximise the use of natural light and ventilation. In particular, the following elements were incorporated into the building. The four symmetrical towers were used as air chimneys to supply and extract air from the market. Air filters reduce air pollution and heat recovery units recover wasted heat. Glazing in the roof increases daylight and reduces solar gains in the summer. The lighting saving is estimated at 140 MWh per year.
Shading was achieved through panels and also naturally with plants that are attached to this frame. The plants are irrigated and the water is circulated within the building with pumps. A non-transparent roof panel reduces thermal losses in the winter and solar gains in the summer. The louvers present were set to a thermostatic control to ventilate the building appropriately and photovoltaic elements supply electricity to automate this process. A hybrid cooling and heating system helps to reduce the energy consumption to by 100 MWh per year.
The basic parameters to be investigated to achieve better quality working conditions in the Old Central Market building of Athens include: - The type,shape and quality of the building shell
- The exposure to sunlight and shading of the building
- The storage of thermal energy within the building mass
- The maximum possible use of daylight and natural ventilation The expected results will ensure better quality working conditions associated with the use of a clean and cheaper form of energy (by using the appropriate passive and active solar components) and reduction of the energy requirements, thus contributing to better economic and energy resource management of the building.
Furthermore, since this type of building is quite common throughout Europe, the design-research results could be utilised to meet the requirements of similar buildings in various European cities and climates, and as such, merit European Community funding.
Fields of science
Topic(s)
Call for proposal
Data not availableFunding Scheme
CSC - Cost-sharing contractsCoordinator
10674 Athens
Greece