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K A S I M A T I
M A R C H . U R B A N . D E S I G N T H E . B A R T L E T T . U C L M A S T ER
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A RC H I T EC T U R E
ARISTOTLE.UNIVERSITY. OF. THESSALONIKI
PROFILE
P E R S O N A L I N F O R M AT I O N name. Efthymia Kasimati email. efikasimati@gmail.com tel mobile. 07490387004
ADDITIONAL E XPERIENCE Greek Pavilion | 15th International Architecture Exhibition, La Biennale di Venezia 2016 MateReality Exhibition Design | Design Lab 2014 After the death of cyberflâneur | DRHA2014 Book of Abstracts. Paper publication
E D U C AT I O N The Bartlett School of Architecture, UCL (expected) National Technical University of Athens. 2015
SK8G Park | MC Undone Exhibition 2014 Independent Project {Un}certainties | 12+1+7 Exhibition 2014 Independent Project
Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. 2013
D3 Natural Systems 2013 | International Architectural Competition - Special Mention (Director’s Choice) - Student Collaboration
PROFESSIONAL E XPERIENCE Intern architect | Studio 75 Architects. 2015 Junior architect | 1ID architects. 2014 Intern architect | TTDZ architects. 2012
COMPUTER SKILL S Rhinoceros | Vray Grasshopper
Synergetic tropisms | IE’13, The 9th International Conference on Intelligent Environments. Paper presentation - Student Collaboration Active Mosaic | DOMES - Architecture Yearbook 2013. Project Publication -Team Collaboration Cinetic Room | DOMES Exhibition 2013 Installation - Team Collaboration Camera Obscura | Design 2012 Dreamspace Galery - Team Collaboration Archstudies.gr | Co-founder.Editor
Sketchup | Vray Autodesk Autocad
L ANGUAGES
Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illusrtator, InDesign)
Greek. native
Processing
English. IELTS. Michigan Proficiency
Microsoft Office Suite
German. Zentrale Mittelstufeprüfung
DESIGN WORK SAMPLE
HACKING THE CIT Y
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IN PROGRESS || THESIS PROJEC T || URBAN DESIGN
SYNERGETIC TROPISMS
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FEB 2 013 || THESIS PROJEC T || MATERIAL RESE ARCH
ACTIVE MOSAIC
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APR 2 012 || ARCHITEC TUR AL COMPE TITION || URBAN DESIGN
URBAN SYMBIOSIS
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MAR 2 012 || DESIGN S TUDIO || URBAN DESIGN
INTRUSION
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JUN 2 012 || DESIGN S TUDIO || DIGITAL S TUDIES
VIENNA HOUSE OF MUSIC
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JAN 2 011 || S TUDENT DESIGN COMPE TITION || BUILDING
KINETIC HAZE APR 2 014 || A A ATHENS VISITING SCHOOL || INS TALL ATION
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H ACKING THE
CITY
Type: Design Thesis Project Student: Kasimati E. Supervisors: Llabres-Vals E., Flucker Z. Host: The Bartlett, U.C.L Year: 2015-2016 (work in progress)
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Keywords: hacking, subterranean, infill
Over the last two centuries, we are witnessing a ‘vertical urban turn’. The world’s cities are undergoing massive vertical, aboveground transformations. In this context, twenty-first century London, which is establishing itself as a leading ‘Global City’, keeps growing upwards facing an unprecedented period of growth. This urban regeneration process, highly connected with a phenomenal construction boom, gave rise to the birth of high-rise clusters, such as the City’s Eastern Cluster. However, although the City keeps going vertical, its aboveground image remains flat and segregated, raising hot debated issues of privatization and loss of public space.
Taking into account the abovementioned context, the project draws on the idea of ‘hacking’ not as a tool of destruction, but for creation and reinvention, in order to re-imagine and re-code the City as a whole. What makes hacking so interesting and powerful, is this mix of temporariness and sharpness, a solution not designed to prevail in time, but left open for others too. Under this framework, the project suggests ‘machinic hacking’ as an alternative form of appropriation of London’s underground territory. By delving into the subterranean realm (the existing underground infrastructural spaces eg. tunnels, sewage system, bunkers), it tries on one hand to open out vertical
urban imaginations and at the same time explores the potential of these hidden and long forgotten urban spaces transforming them into realms of opportunities and new affordances. Concluding, drawing on this vertical ‘urban turn’, the project tries to enhance our vertical thinking of contemporary cites that exceeds the above ground world and boundaries. This new understanding of the city requires also new means of representation that go beyond 2d flat representations and also challenges new ways of space appropriation that involve both human and inhuman actors.
Existing high rise cluster
Emerging high rise cluster
CAZ boundary
Tall buildings > 100m
Buildings height
0-5m
URBAN DOCUMENTATION The project captures and maps real-time data (eg. wind flow, radiation) related to the impact high-rise buildings have on their surrounding environment, focusing on the City of London as our case study.
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5-10m
10-20m
20-40m
40-50m 50-100m 100-120m120-150m150-200m 200m
EFTHYMIA KASIMATI / PORTFOLIO / HACKING THE CIT Y
Civic space
Corporate lobbies
Open Space shaped by 1 Undershaft, Leadenhall and new towers
St Mary Axe entrance + lobby area
Churchyards
St Helen’s Bishopsgate Churchyard
Underground
Bank Underground station (underground connection with Monument station)
St Olaves Open space shaped by Willis building and around Lloyds Building Open space around St Mary Axe
Leadenhall Building entrance
Ticket hall and entrance of 20 FEnchurch Street building
The ‘Arcade’ St Dunstant in the East The Leadenhall market
DESIGN STRATEGY The basic design concept stems from the idea of the development of an infill structure that grows inside the existing urban infrastructure, which extends also to the underground realm. For the morphology, tension activated structures formed inside an initial topology, are further explored.
SYNERGETIC TROPISMS Type: Design Thesis Project Collaboration: Kasimati E., Panagoulia E. Supervisors: Tellios A. Vergopoulos S. Host: A.U.T.H. Year: 2013 Distinction: d3 Natural Systems Competition Award - Director’s Choice
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Keywords: ecology, synergy, adaptation
Can
we orient the production of nature to produce architecture as a “natural” artifice? Contemporary architecture tools manifest the certainty of determinist procedures, planning rigid mechanisms based on predictability. Urban transformations are supposed to follow closed scenarios that can not deviate from their pre-programmed representations. We can now envision something different, structures driven by human, technological and environmental contingencies. We can work out adaptive scenarios that accept unpredictability and uncertainty as modi operandi. In this
KASIMATI EFTHYMIA / PORTFOLIO / DER BAU
context, the project proposes a “fragile” symbiotic system that operates within an ecology of human, technological and biotic interactions. Drawing from the increasing interest in renewable raw materials as alternative energy resources, we design a structure which acts as a scaffold for a photocatalytic biodegradable polymer (PLA) that is able to reduce atmospheric pollutants and then naturally be utilized as fertilizer. The use of active composite materials can establish the consecutive exchange of information at all levels, from the analogue to digital and material realm. In this way, the project extends beyond earlier
distinctions between mechanical and organic, generating modes of continuous exchanges and flows; a complex network of relations between an organism and its host environment. To conclude, assimilating such criticalities for the production of adaptive systems that operate morphogenetic and metabolic processes and exploiting them in the field of architecture is considered the key to a performative, technology driven, more ecologically aware and integrated architecture.
GROWTH PROTOCOL Our digital branching strategy derives from the biological phenomenon of tropism. Tropism (from Greek τρόπος, tropos) “a turning”) indicates the growth of a biological organism, usually a plant, in response to an environmental stimulus. In this way, the growth protocol forms a generic bifurcation system that constructs an irregular arborescent structure of branching components that grow according to external stimuli.
MATERIAL DISTRIBUTION The material distribution mechanism is a system responsible for the structural efficiency of the structure. It employs topology and structural optimization methods in order to apply material in an ergonomic, non-homogeneous way. Node reinforcement (FEA)
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[1]
[4]
[2]
[5]
[3]
[6]
EFTHYMIA KASIMATI / PORTFOLIO / SYNERGETIC TROPISMS
PLA BEHAVIOUR - BIODEGRATION PLA is a polymer, flexible in application. It is applied in semi-liquid state, able to form membranes, filaments or elongated elements, until it reaches coagulation state, forming a rigid structure. Additional supportive elements, such as PHBHHx, enhance the structural performativity and titanium dioxide, which allows synthesis of a photocatalytic material, for the fission and degradation of atmospheric pollutants.
Potential development Further development Initial stage [A] Begin of the construction process
points of material harvest
MATERIAL COLLECTION Raw material is harvested from the nearest resource nodes, following the logic of the nearest neighbor algorithm). The primary source of raw material is allocated and identifies the initial point of the construction.
ACTIVE MOSAIC Type: Architectural Competition Collaboration: TTDZ architects Location: Aghias Sofias Axis Thessaloloniki, Greece Host: T.E.E. Year: 2012 Distinction: Mention
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Keywords: grid, urban tapestry
The
design proposal sets off from a perceptional experience of public space within the limits of Agia Sophia axis. Humans, whether residents of the historic centre or visitors to the city, become the epicenter of the synthetic process. The way that urban qualities and experiences are perceived by people constitutes the key analytic and synthetic mechanism. The initial reading of the city, in the area of the Agia Sophia axis, ‘tints’ an urban tapestry according to emotional impacts and psychological effects of public space. The
KASIMATI EFTHYMIA / PORTFOLIO / ACTIVE MOSAIC
range of influnce to the user is coded on a diagram of four distinctive sections. These sections are: a. recalling (the notion of memory and historic reference) b. exposing (contemporary activities of the city), c. isolating (the personal reading of the city and the need for temporary ‘withdrawal’), and d. loving (subtle, emotionally special moments and experiences). These four sections appear in different colors within the synthetic process. The way they correspond with existing and proposed urban qualities exceed geometric characteristics of urban space. A new fragmentation of space derives as a result of the
application of this new ‘tinted’ topology on urban scales. This continuous selfsubdivision of urban tapestry reaches the very personal human scale. The tiniest urban dot becomes the fundamental synthetic and structural element of the design proposal. This tiny urban dot is described as the MOSAIC*. A number of mixed, hybrid spaces is generated. These spaces bear a distinct functional identity while at the same time they materialize a level of surplus spatial, emotional, psychological and experiential value. * MOSAIC is the art of creating images with an assemblage of small pieces of coloured glass, stone, or other materials. Small individual tiles, known as tesserae, are used to create a pattern or a picture.
ACTIVE PLATE
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winter
autumn
summer
EFTHYMIA KASIMATI / PORTFOLIO / ACTIVE MOSAIC
traffic regulations
temporary parking
pedestrian flows
MEDITERRANEAN MOSAIC The species proposed are native, so that they are able to adjust to the climatic changes of the ecosystem of the city.
in 5 years
in 10 years
in 15 years
SEASONAL CHANGE
MOSAIC FRAGMENTS / TESSERAE
love tesselation
spring
winter
recall subtraction
expose superelevation
autumn
summer
isolate degradation
january
april
july
october
tourist routes
URBAN SYMBIOSIS Type: Academic studio Collaboration: Kasimati E., Panagoulia E., Apostolinas A. Host: A. U.T.H. Year: 2012 Keywords: network, railway line
The proposal is based on a decentralised spatial model, which acts as a distribution network between nodes that refer to the different areas of interest. These areas present their own characteristics and urban features. As a result, the suggested network is developed around the old Railway Station of Thessaloniki, which is considered nowadays an urban void. Through the project, this void is activated, transformed from a passive element that divided the area into an open unifying green space. The proposed network is basically enhanced by providing accessibility to and through the whole area. Cross roads and different pedestrian pathways, along with cycle routes, are developed, so that the inhabitants are welcomed to visit and explore the area, which is now threatened by abandonment. Moreover, in a local/ neighbourhood level, the terraces are activated through the application of urban hydroponics. In this way, the green element gets fully integrated, and public and semi-public spaces are created that produce informal modes of habitation.
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area of intervention
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pedestrian circulation
built environment
green infrastructure
areas of architectural interest
local intervention points (wi-fi spots, recycling units)
NETWORK STRATEGY The proposed network is developed mainly through cross roads and pedestrian pathways, together with cycle routes, so that the inhabitants are welcomed to visit and explore the area, which is now threatened by abandonment and dereliction.
EFTHYMIA KASIMATI / PORTFOLIO / URBAN SYMBIOSIS
LIFE BETWEEN BUILDINGS The basic problem in activating public space in the area, is the strict separation between private and public. Our goal is the development of an alternative inhabitation scenario, which is characterised by a gradient transition between these two realms. This gradience between private and public realm is basically achieved through the integration of “semipublic”, or so called “priblic” spaces, in each neighbourhood area. The erstwhile inactive and abandoned spaces that are located in the site, are transformed in this way into a network of informal spaces.
private
pubic
current situation
priblic
proposal
building setback property line arcades arcade entrance building entrance parking area entrance bike line religious temple embassy culture/library museum multifunctional space kindergarten
INTRUSION Type: Academic studio Collaboration: Kasimati E., Georgiou S. Panagoulia E. Host: A.U.T.H. Year: 2012 Keywords: intrusion, voxel space
This is a project on a design tube station in Thessaloniki city, based on the notion of intrusion as the theme that triggers the design process. Intrusion is considered as the unauthorized, latent entry into a system, resulting into the destabilization of its current local relationships. The project presents a new idea of the ‘context’, which functions, due to local interactions, as a vessel of distributed behaviors and identities. This diversity is generated by a system of time variables. The design process becomes a procedure of destabilization and deviation. In this way fields start gradually to form and a variation of spatial patterns emerge.
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DESIGN STRATEGY The overall space of the tube station is conceived as a ‘voxel space’ that is defined according to time value. Time and proximity are employed as critical parameters related with programmatic uses. In this way, each internal ‘voxel space’ is assigned with different values and programmes accordingly, such as entrances, ticket machines, cafes, shops, WC and platforms.
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EFTHYMIA KASIMATI / PORTFOLIO / INTRUSION
MORPHOGENETIC PROCESS Drawing on the concept of ‘voxel space’, each voxel carries its own identity. The voxels and their group formation are used for the creation of components. The generation of each component and their combination is based on minimal surface formation.
VIENNA HOUSE OF MUSIC Type: Student Competition Collaboration: Kasimati E., Panagoulia E., Apostolinas A. Host: Archmedium Year: 2011 Keywords: boundary, gradience, continuity
In
a period, when digitization favors morphological research, the basic question of architecture remains elemental: How could architecture encourage people to seek a spectrum of opportunities? As with music, time and space are comprised of various relations and subsequently interactions. This conceptual spatiality and temporality can be achieved by an elemental architectural plan, created by a single line. In this way, a place emerges, where manifold interactions co-exist. Spaces are detached and united at the same time. People can participate in different events and still be sharing a singular space. Infinite spatial associations are realized. It is an amorphous space, where mutual interpenetration of inside and outside takes place. The aim of this proposal is to encapsulate a hybrid sense, in order to dissolve the restrictions of dipoles (inside/outside, natural/built), which oppress potential opportunities.
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O P E N I N G C O N F I G U R AT I O N
PROPOSAL DE VELOPMENT
GREEN ELEMENT
P E D E S T R I A N C I R C U L AT I O N
V E H I C L E C I R C U L AT I O N
SITE
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EFTHYMIA KASIMATI / PORTFOLIO / VIENNA HOUSE OF MUSIC
A HYBRID SPACE The arising building has a filter-transitional role between Vienna and the park. It is a permeable boundary which invites people into the park. The building embraces the natural element and it is settled within the trees, integrated fully into the site. Architecture and nature co-exist harmonically, as if they are parts of the same thing. The building is composed by the concept of degradation. It thickens towards the city, but it dilutes towards the park. Abstract references compose the traces of the collective memory.
KINETIC HAZE Type: Installation Host: AA Athens Visiting School Year: 2014 http://ai.aaschool.ac.uk/athens/ Keywords: AI, physical computing, responsive environments
The
Architectural Association Visiting School in Athens, as part of the AI research agenda, has continued its investigations to challenge the static built environment with its 2014 installation entitled Kinetic Haze. The project investigates the possibilities of architectural modeling via scripting, digital fabrication, and large scale installations. This interactive installation seeks to redefine the concept of the architectural pathway. The lifesize prototype “bears the behavior signature of that of a primal organism.” When an initial user appears, the structure is put into a hostile state in which “its flexible muscle-type strings vibrating nervously, blocking the entrance.” When a second user appears the prototype shifts into a “friendly mode” allowing the two users to walk into the structure and interact. Time and light are also utilized to augment the perception of space in the structure. Vivid flickering lights encourage the users to move out of the structure after a period of time and the overall experience promotes communication between the users experiencing and those viewing the prototype.
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THE PROTOTYPE Standing at 2.5m tall, 1.2m wide, and 4.5m long, the structure is made of wooden frames and elastic strings wired with motion sensors and actuators. The pattern of the woven elastic cords is designed to affect the visual perception of the viewer and respond to their movements.
ACTUATION SYSTEM When one user enters the path, the prototype shifts from its initial phase in order to welcome the user within. Sensing devices transform the dormant architectural piece into an active system; mechanical motors lift up the strings, whose flexible materiality allows them to stretch, thus opening up the path visually. 32
Dual Servo Installation
Ultra sound distance sensor
Winch servo motors
Arduino board
EFTHYMIA KASIMATI / PORTFOLIO / KINETIC HAZE
HUMAN INTERACTION As users approach the structure from opposite ends, the central passage is obstructed. The users begin to interact with space, transforming it with their motion, prompting it to return into its regulating form that will allow their passage from one end to the next.