Re-configuration of the Coastal Location Verki into a pedestrian walkway and water basin

Wether in a state of calm or storm, water is given centre stage to freely flow in or out of the estuary. River boulders, white exposed aggregate concrete, wood and gabions, have been composed into a reconstructed basin through the intelligible recreated flow-lines adjusted to the scale of the landscape. The irregularly shaped 6400 sqm public property (remembered as 'Paragathkaina lake') comprises of a narrow stream discharging into a wider coastal estuary, previously allowing seasonal torrential flow to drain into the sea. However the surrounding natural coastland bordering onto the estuary and stream has been obliterated by resort development; road networks to the north, restaurants, seasonal tourist and residential accommodation to the east and west.

The site adjoins the completed Oroklini coastal waterfront westwards, while the east bank borders raised courtyards. The south of the estuary faces the coast while the stream itself, entering from the north, has been partially encased in a concrete canal, which extends northwards under the road, leading out from a discharge basin located between the villages of Oroklini and Pyla. The coastal estuary had to regain its role of rainwater collector, receiving discharge flowing from the hinterland and letting it escape gradually. At the same time, the basin had to act as a coastal diffuser, detonating seaward pressure and thus relieving adjacent beaches in danger of erosion. Former misguided attempts at controlling the bipolar natural water forces, filled the estuary with debris, resulting in seasonal floods in the hinterland and stagnation beside the sea. The original estuary bay was found at a lower level to the sea and with an inverse slope, leading inland instead of seaward. Both natural as well as recent interventions, became key components in the new composition.

The estuary was cleared and reconstructed as a water filter, layered with sand, rocks and finished in river boulders, following the natural slope. The easternmost side was supported by a tired gabion wall, utilising similar river boulders, to act as a retaining wall and as percolation filter of natural ground waters. A pedestrian walkway, along the west estuary flank links to the existing coastal promenade, constructed of white monolithic pebbled concrete with exposed aggregate. The philosophy of the constructed walkway continues, treated as a suspended surface resting on piles set into the beach, with a sloping scarp towards the water. A wooden bridge suspended over the estuary slopes down to touch the beach. The silted freshwater spring re-emerged, restoring the lake of memory while justifying the original inverted slope. Reeds introduced in the circular planters, as well as small adaptable fish re-create the natural life-cycle, allowing for a self-sustainable environment.