Pavlos Vlastos & etsi architects

30.05.2024, at 19:00

The Hellenic Institute of Architecture held the sixth event of the 20th series of lectures by Greek architects, titled “Lectures & Dialogues,” on Thursday, May 30 at 19:00, at the Benaki Museum on Pireos Street.

The Lectures of Greek Architects have historically been a landmark institution of the Hellenic Institute of Architecture (HIA), as over the past two decades, prominent creators have been invited to present their work. Showcasing the diverse expressions of architectural practice, as well as critically engaging with them, has been a lasting feature of this initiative. The parallel presentation of work by two architectural firms, followed by a dialogue between them and with the audience, is seen as a valuable opportunity to spark public discussion about architecture and its relationship with institutions, the processes of its production and critique, as well as its multiple manifestations in both private and public space.

The general coordination of the lectures, on behalf of the Board of Directors of the Hellenic Institute of Architecture, was undertaken by Anastasios Kotsiopoulos (Architect, Emeritus Professor at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki), Dionisis Sotovikis (Architect), and Sofia Tsiraki (Architect, Professor at the National Technical University of Athens).

The sixth lecture of the series featured the participation of:

Pavlos Vlastos
PAVLOS VLASTOS , ARCHITECT

The lecture focused on the presentation of selected projects by the firm, either completed or currently in progress. These range from the scale of small residential buildings to that of public communal spaces.

Etsi architects (Eleni Tsigarida)
CUSTOMS HOUSE AND OTHER ARCHITECTURAL STORIES: ARCHITECTURE AS A TEAM SPORT AND THE DEMYSTIFICATION OF THE ARCHITECT AS AUTHORITY

Etsi Architects, from the beautiful Kardamyli, invite you on a behind-the-scenes journey into the life of an architectural practice. In our lecture, Eleni Tsigarida will illustrate how design evolves from “I think I have an idea” to “This isn’t exactly what I imagined, but I like it. “With the Kardamyli Customs House as the main focus, alongside other projects, we’re ready to reveal the truth behind architectural creation: a wild tangle of collaboration between clients, architects, craftsmen, public services, local stakeholders, unexpected events, and surprises that, somehow, magically come together and work. Get ready for a touch of humor, as we challenge the stereotype of the architect as the solitary genius, and instead highlight the importance of teamwork and common sense in the real world of architecture. Come laugh, cry, and maybe… change the way you see the buildings around you.

#eialectures20

Pavlos Vlastos, Architect (National Technical University of Athens, 1993), Civil Engineer (Democritus University of Thrace, 1988), has maintained an architectural design office in Ioannina since 1994.

He has primarily focused on the design of private projects, including residences, vacation homes, small apartment buildings, hotels, industrial buildings, the repair and restoration of traditional buildings, and the reconstruction of monuments. Buildings he has designed have been constructed in Ioannina, Zagori, Parga, Syvota (Thesprotia), Lefkada, Preveza, Thasos, Xanthi, and Athens. In partnership with Alexis Baltogiannis (Civil Engineer, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki) and Euripidis Dinalexis (Technologist Civil Engineer, Athens University of Applied Sciences), he constructs projects either of his own design or those of other architects.

He has participated in two architectural competitions:

1995: Panhellenic architectural competition for the National Insurance building complex on Syngrou Avenue in Athens (3rd Prize), with the design team consisting of T. Biris, P. Kokkoris, A. Pantzekos, and P. Vlastos.

2018: International architectural competition for the redevelopment of Pyrros Square in Ioannina (1st Prize), with the design team of P. Vlastos and G. Papageorgiou.

The architectural firm Etsi Architects, based in Kardamyli, aims to be a creative hub that blends modern aesthetics with the traditional landscape of Mani. Founded by Eleni Tsigarida, following her studies at the National Technical University of Athens and postgraduate work at Bartlett UCL, as well as valuable experience gained at the offices of Giannis Tsiomis and Giorgos Andreadis, Etsi Architects was established in 2017 after the dissolution of aiolou architects.

Taking inspiration from the rich architectural heritage of Mani, we specialize in designing and constructing homes that exude uniqueness and adaptability to the natural landscape. The recognition of our work and the positive reception from our audience have motivated us to expand our presence with a new office in Athens.

Our philosophy focuses on collaboration, incorporating the ideas and dreams of our clients into every project. We are dedicated to exploring sustainable solutions and innovations, aiming to create spaces that not only reflect our clients’ personalities but also enhance harmony with the environment.