It is one thing to envision something and another to realize it. Our vision is not without its challenges. Creating a sustainable home that seamlessly integrates innovative design with respect for an existing structure and the natural environment presented numerous challenges from the get-go.
When we tried to discuss creating a CLT-construction like this one with our colleagues and contractors in Greece, we were met with great disbelief and zero interest.
Wood in Greece, where seismic activity is so intense? Wood in Greece, where the climate is so hot and dry? Wood, which burns and breaks so easily? Wood, which is sensitive to woodworms? Why bring back something that so clearly belongs in the past?
We heard it all!
But as Martin Luther King once said: I believe it and therefore I see it. The vision must be believed to be seen, not seen to be believed. We believe that this is the way forward, and we want to participate in the international dialogue showing that the next step towards more sustainable materials and constructions can be taken in Greece, with the specific conditions of our country, and of course without fear of altering its DNA. In short, we decided that this was an adventure worth embarking on!
The next challenge was to find collaborators and partners willing to set out on this adventure with us—certainly easier said than done! Because of its stringent regulations and seismic concerns, building in Greece requires a high level of expertise, and also a degree of commitment to a project that not everyone is ready or willing to contribute. Local engineers need to oversee every aspect of the construction, which adds another layer of complexity, especially when venturing into new territories like working with massive timber.
In the midst of all the uncertainty, we were fortunate to find steadfast allies in Christos Kaklamanis and Georgios Karvounis—long-term collaborators who embraced the challenge with enthusiasm and dedication. Their willingness to step outside the boundaries of traditional construction methods and explore innovative solutions has been instrumental in shaping the trajectory of our project.
With each passing day, we are reminded of the invaluable contributions of our collaborators and their respective teams, EREISMA and KARVOUNIS. Their expertise and curiosity have breathed life into our vision, propelling us ever closer to our goal.
Despite our progress, however, we still find ourselves encountering resistance from existing practices and entrenched mindsets within the industry. Convincing others to see beyond the confines of familiar traditional construction methods has been an uphill battle—one that we are determined to fight with unwavering resolve.
As we navigate the challenges posed by CLT construction, from noise concerns to implementation practicalities, we remain steadfast in our commitment to creating a technically sound and environmentally sustainable building.
There has been progress and there are challenges, and through it all one question still looms large—Who will build it? The answer remains elusive, but we remain hopeful that the right partners will emerge, ready to embrace the journey ahead.
As the day draws to a close, I find solace in the knowledge that we are not alone in this endeavor. With each hurdle we overcome and each milestone we reach, we are reminded of the power of collaboration and the resilience of the human spirit.
Whatever it takes…
OOAK architects
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