Athens Alive: A Blueprint for OLYMPIC Urban Regeneration

Overview

Our team led the plan to transform the OAKA Olympic Complex through the Athens Alive project, a €1.1 billion redevelopment initiative. We played a pivotal role in shaping the vision, assembling a world-class consortium, and developing a comprehensive strategy to position the site as a dynamic mixed-use community. By integrating sports, leisure, business, and entertainment facilities, we aimed to establish a world-class urban district while preserving the Olympic legacy.

We were responsible for defining the business case, capital requirements, and funding model, as well as structuring the partnership with key players including Colliers, AECOM, and BlueRock. Additionally, we coordinated with the Greek government and influential stakeholders to secure support, enabling the project to move forward with confidence and alignment.

Key Objectives

1. Urban Regeneration: Convert OAKA into a vibrant Central Business District (CBD) and entertainment hub, addressing Athens’ need for modern infrastructure and high-quality real estate.
2. Preservation of Heritage: Honour the Olympic legacy by refurbishing iconic structures such as the Calatrava-designed velodrome and canopy.
3. Community Engagement: Provide extensive recreational and entertainment options for residents and visitors, fostering social and economic growth.

Development Scope

1. Elite Sports Facilities:
   • A new 30,000-seat football stadium for Panathinaikos FC.
   • A world-class 18,000-seat basketball arena.
   • Refurbished training facilities and community sports venues.
2. Commercial and Hospitality Spaces:
   • 150,000 sqm of Grade A office space.
   • Three hotels, including conference centres.
   • Retail and leisure outlets tailored for family and community use.
3. Sustainability Initiatives:
   • Renewable energy systems, including photovoltaic installations.
   • Active design elements promoting pedestrian and cycling access.

Economic Impact

• Job Creation: Over 15,000 jobs, including 4,000 permanent roles and short-term construction positions.
• Economic Growth: Estimated €18 billion in Gross Value Added (GVA) and €7 billion in tax revenue over 20 years.
• Public Investment: €400 million allocated to public leisure and infrastructure.

Strategic Partnerships

The consortium behind Athens Alive included:

• Redstone Advisory Partners: Business planning and investment strategy.
• AECOM: Master planning and infrastructure design.
• Colliers International: Real estate advisory.
• BlueRock: Venue operations and content planning.

Stakeholder Support

Key endorsements from:

• Government Leaders: Secured backing from the Greek Prime Minister Alex Tsipras and other political figures.
• Industry Icons: Support from globally recognised architect Santiago Calatrava.his project exemplifies a comprehensive urban renewal strategy, combining public and private collaboration to deliver long-term societal and economic benefits. With its blend of world-class infrastructure and sustainable urban design, Athens Alive sets a benchmark for future city developments globally.

This project exemplifies a comprehensive urban renewal strategy, combining public and private collaboration to deliver long-term societal and economic benefits. With its blend of world-class infrastructure and sustainable urban design, Athens Alive sets a benchmark for future city developments globally.