Key Takeaways
- The Ellinikon in Greece aims to be Europe’s largest urban regeneration project, transforming the former Athens International Airport into a smart city.
- Over 70% of the development will be green space, promoting a healthier urban environment.
- With over 12,000 interested buyers from more than 110 countries, The Ellinikon is set to redefine city living through innovative technology and efficient urban planning.
Transforming Urban Living in Greece
The Ellinikon is set to become Europe’s largest urban regeneration project on the site of the former Athens International Airport, spanning 6.2 square miles with 2.7 square miles dedicated to development. This revolutionary smart city project aims to enhance residents’ quality of life by integrating technology and creating accessible “15-minute neighborhoods.” This design facilitates easy access to essential services, reducing the need for motor vehicles.
Over 70% of the site will be green space, doubling Athens’ green area ratio from 30% to 60%. This commitment to environmental sustainability represents a significant shift towards a healthier, greener urban landscape. The development will feature approximately 6,000 residential units, with the first phase delivering about 1,500 homes. Little Athens will include 850-900 apartments within multiple buildings that will also offer retail space, while the 200-meter Riviera Tower will incorporate a bioclimatic design to blend with the natural surroundings.
State-of-the-art technology will play a crucial role in daily life at The Ellinikon. Smart traffic lights will adjust based on real-time traffic conditions, and waste management will be optimized by scheduling pickups only when bins are full. The first “smart park” in Greece, Ellinikon Park, will feature advanced monitoring systems for environment and weather, demonstrating the project’s commitment to innovation and sustainability.
The project is attracting global interest, with approximately 12,000 potential buyers from more than 110 countries. Local buyers make up 52% of interest, while 48% are international, with the U.S. as the largest source market.
Odisseas Athanasious, CEO of Lamda Development, emphasized the project’s transformative potential for urban living, aiming to create a connected, people-centric environment that adapts to the evolving needs of residents and visitors. The Ellinikon’s model reflects the growing trend of smart city developments worldwide, alongside similar initiatives like Bridgeland in Houston, Texas. Bridgeland features environmentally friendly amenities like a purple pipe system for recycled water irrigation and sustainable commercial buildings, showcasing how modern urban planning can integrate ecological considerations with quality of life improvements.
Both The Ellinikon and Bridgeland highlight the future of urban development, where innovative technology, sustainability, and community well-being intersect. As these projects progress, they redefine standards for city life in historical and modern contexts alike.
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