Powerful landmark
The National Observatory of Cyprus was designed to be a captivating destination for stargazers worldwide, with architecture that harmoniously integrates the building’s volume with the vast sky. Engineered for low maintenance and long-term durability, the observatory aims to inspire future generations, embodying the spirit of exploration as well as our civilization’s quest to understand the universe and our place within it.
Context Integration
Cyprus’ first purpose-built observatory will be open to the public and serve as a center for scientific research. Located in a remote rural area, the project aimed to create an architectural landmark that would positively impact the surrounding landscape while becoming a world-class destination to inspire future generations of explorers. The design was crafted to possess a distinctive identity that draws attention from afar, making the human experience of the space both captivating and meaningful. The site’s subtle ridge and significant elevation changes, played a key role in shaping the design, resulting in an elegant and responsive form. The building’s volume was split into two parts, with an opening that frames a view of the valley, the sea, and the horizon. A porch was situated between the two volumes, while the second volume was diagonally “cut,” creating an opening that frames a view of the neighboring village of Agridia.
Interior Design
The two high-tech telescopes are the focal points of the building. The first floor is dedicated entirely to stargazing and houses a 20-inch night telescope, housed within a 5.6-meter-wide dome that rotates 360 degrees. The second floor features the helium telescope, which has a 4x4m moving hydraulic roof, making it one of the few publicly accessible telescopes of its kind in the world. Visitors also encounter the astromarine, a mobile platform used for moving telescopes, which is available for use by amateur stargazers who may bring their own equipment. Given the sensitivity of the telescopes to light, the interior lighting is carefully designed in shades of red, blue, and purple. Additionally, because the telescopes are sensitive to movement and vibration, each one is supported on a column that is statically independent of the building structure.
The ground floor accommodates the building’s secondary functions, including a reception area, café, offices, and a planetarium. The entrance, located between the two volumes, opens directly into the reception area, offering a stunning view of the valley through a large window. A central staircase then leads visitors up to the telescopes above.
Material Palette & Sustainability
Half of the building is embedded in the ground, functioning as a natural heat valve that significantly reduces summer temperatures. The choice of materials aligns with the long-term goal of minimal maintenance. Inside, a palette of natural materials creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. The walls are clad in plywood panels, the flooring consists of polished cast cement, and the steps are made of granite. In contrast, the exterior is wrapped in aluminum panels with a mirror-like finish. As a structure primarily designed for observing the stars, planets, and the universe, the reflective cladding emphasizes the act of looking outward. The building mirrors the sky and “disappears” into the vast landscape.
Read more at ek magazine 291 | October 2024