Plateia Charitou Rhodes, Greece

In Rhodes, this project redesigned Plateia Charitou, establishing the square as a locus of culture and community on the edge of the beach. Known as the square of a hundred indigenous species of date trees create a cinematic and verdant passage through the centre of the plateia. 

There is an emphasis on the versatility of use of open space. At either end of the square, two striking metal structures have been added. One is a coffee area and temporary exhibition space. The other, an exit from the underground parking below the square. These are the most permanent markers in the communal area, which otherwise plays with transience.

A central water element begins by surrounding the underground parking exit, and zig zagging through the central concourse, headed in the direction of the sea. Contemporary sculptures are rooted at key points throughout the water feature too, offering points of engagement and interest throughout the square. Around the  perimeter of the plateia is a traditional pebble mosaic. The mosaic pattern introduces cotto tiles which span across the centre, interrupted only by two grass patches around the main structures. Benches line the outer edges of the square to facilitate socialising.