Archetech Issue 24 2016 | Page 57

On the other side, we had a technicall difficulty on the foundation system, due to the presence of one meter depth underneath water, which surrounded the building by all sides on the underground parking level. We opted for a foundation slab with a one meter outside ballast, opposed to the water uplifting pressure. This solution was combined with a continuous waterproof membrane that prevents water ingress to the lower level. The advantage of this solution lies in respecting the levels of groundwater flows, which is environmentally friendly, also achieving energy savings by this procedure. Page 57 - Archetech The heights of the project are determined by volumes in context, maintaining two floor levels on the edge, same as the existing building, and three floor levels in the inner part of the project, matching the height of the already demolished ancient theater and its new replacement building.