SILO

This is a typical grain factory complex. The whole complex sits on a site in the area of Anavargos, on the outskirts of the city of Pafos in Cyprus. Although the surrounding area is not industrial in character, this complex has a prominent presence along the main road from Pafos to Polis and the Akamas peninsula. It includes a receiving pit; four storage silos, clad with corrugated metal sheets; a weighbridge; a control room; a workshop; a canteen and other ancillary accommodation; a delivery building; steel ladders and bridges (catwalks); and a large flat store.

All parts were carefully constructed and painted in strong basic colours, like blue and yellow, which correspond to each specific operation. Initially, it was maintained and kept in good condition—both internally and externally. Due to this factor, all technical and aesthetic values and traits characteristic of such installations are instantly obvious and projected to public view—particularly, to travellers from Pafos to Polis and the Akamas. Aesthetic and technical values such as an absolutely organic and rational, in terms of its operation, distribution on the site, of each functional section in relation to all the others; An easy to construct and practical structural system, extensively using metal parts for quick assembly; an overall consistent aesthetic, deriving from a kind of modernist tradition and experience acquired through time, relying on repetition; a thoughtful visual language combining different particles, something that makes sense of the overall harmony and projects self-confidence.

In 2013 the Silos was closed for operation and its due to be demolished.

Researcher Achilleas Kentonis