Sustainable and site-specific Urban Design proposal for Patras’s waterfront regeneration (National Architectural Competition) and the Holistic Landscape Design for the 4-star hotel complex “Sampatiki Suites” – what does it take to design in some of the most unique terrains in Greece? LandmArch. ’s founder shared the secret of their methodology with us, showing how to create meaning and purpose with Landscape Architecture in Greece.
LandmArch. Philosophy
LandmArch.’s philosophy focuses on transforming spaces into dynamic places that resonate with both meaning and purpose. Whether public or private, their designs emphasize social sustainability, aiming to create spaces that are inclusive, safe, and responsive to their changing surroundings.
They focus on enhancing the human experience by encouraging social interaction, environmental responsibility, and cultural identity.
By putting together cutting-edge technologies and sustainable practices, LandmArch. ensures that every place created is not just functionally and aesthetically pleasing but also resilient and adaptable to a changing world. Their work goes beyond conventional design, shaping environments to support the well-being of those who use them.
About the Founder: Xenia Mastoraki
Xenia is an Architect & Landscape Architect with international mentions in subjects focused on Sustainable Tourism, Social Sustainability, Circular Economy and Ecological Design, Walkability and Accessibility, the use of Arts as well as the Introduction of New Technologies in Public Spaces. Her work has been hosted and published by international platforms and Conferences worldwide.
Bringing design experience from Italy, the UK and Sweden, she shares knowledge on landscape architecture, urban planning and sustainability through articles, publications and lectures in architectural magazines, educational Institutions and International Conventions.
About the Team: Vasilis Ingvar Raptis
As a Partner and Creative Director, Vasilis is a key member of the team. As a Landscape Architect & Urban Planner Graduate Architect (NTUA) Vasilis is mainly focused on Urban and Regional Planning, leading him to further exploration on the field through his Master Degree on Urbanism Studies by KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm. He has been working as an urban planner, landscape architect and BIM coordinator for international architectural studios.
Interview with Xenia Mastoraki
What is Your Hope for the Future of the Company?
“Our future vision at LandmArch. is to lead in landscape architecture by integrating sustainability, innovation, design on human scale and artistry across both public and private projects. We are committed to designing environments that foster social inclusion, environmental stewardship, and cultural expression.
For private projects, we focus on integrating advanced technologies, such as AI-driven design and BIM solutions, to deliver precise, innovative, and aesthetically engaging environments.
By introducing the extensive use of Art, we seek to create spaces that not only meet functional needs, but also evoke inspiration and connection both between people (social interaction) and between them and their environment (human-environment interaction).”
What Are Your Expectations for the Future of Landscape Design in Greece?
“At LandmArch, we envision a transformative future for landscape architecture in Greece, where politics and practices converge to create resilient, inclusive, and innovative urban environments.” Here’s Xenia’s perspective on how these changes could happen:
1. Enabling Inclusive and Socially Sustainable Design:
– Legislative Frameworks: “We hope for robust policies mandating inclusivity in public space design, ensuring that every urban, peri-urban, agricultural and rural area is accessible and welcoming to all demographics, including people of all abilities and socio-economic backgrounds.”
– Empowering Communities: “We envision policies that actively involve community members in the design process, ensuring that spaces reflect the needs and aspirations of local populations. “
– Holistic Design Approaches: “Landscape architects will integrate universal design principles, creating spaces that accommodate diverse needs and foster social interaction. Projects will be guided by community input gathered through participatory design processes Bottom-Up.”
2. Advancing Nature-Based Solutions (NBS)
– Green Infrastructure Incentives: “We advocate for government support and financial incentives for implementing Nature-Based Solutions, such as urban green spaces, green roofs, and rain gardens, to bolster environmental resilience and sustainability.”
– Mandatory Green Integration: “We seek policies that mandate the inclusion of green infrastructure in new developments, addressing urban challenges like heat islands effects, wildfires and stormwater management.”
– Innovative Green Designs: “Landscape architects will champion the integration of NBS, creating multifunctional spaces that enhance both ecological health and urban livability. Projects will focus on incorporating features like vast permeable pavements, green urban corridors and urban forests.”
3. Integrating Art and Cultural Elements
– Cultural Enrichment Support: “We anticipate policies that encourage the integration of Art and Culture in public spaces, offering grants and support for projects that reflect and celebrate local heritage.”
– Funding for Artistic Integration: “We envision increased government support for artistic elements in landscape projects, enhancing cultural expression and community pride.”
– Culturally Resonant Designs: “Landscape architects will incorporate art and cultural features into their designs, creating public spaces that resonate with local heritage and foster a sense of community, promoting mostly diversity rather than integration.“
4. Enhancing Urban Mobility and Accessibility
– Mobility Improvement Policies: “We look forward to policies that prioritize urban mobility and accessibility, promoting infrastructure that supports walking, cycling, and sustainable transportation.”
– Accessibility Standards: “We envision new standards ensuring that all public spaces and transportation systems are accessible to everyone, including people with disabilities.”
– Inclusive Infrastructure: “Projects will emphasize safe and convenient pedestrian and cycling pathways, integrating sustainable transportation options and enhancing connectivity across urban areas.”
In summary, LandmArch. envisions a future where Greek landscape architecture embraces inclusivity, sustainability, and technological innovation, guided by progressive policies and dynamic practices. By fostering these advancements, Greece will develop vibrant, equitable, and resilient public spaces that significantly enhance the quality of life for all its citizens.
