The AA Visiting School Cyprus 2026, an international architecture workshop organised by London’s Architectural Association, has concluded at Neapolis University Pafos.
Held from 24 August to 3 September under the title “Fragments in Equilibrium”, the programme brought together students and tutors for an intensive process of research and design focused on the relationship between architecture, landscape and Cyprus’s cultural heritage.
Focus on the abandoned village of Foinikas
According to a press release, this was the first time the workshop had been hosted at Neapolis University Pafos, as part of the university’s collaboration with the Architectural Association.
The programme centred on the study of Foinikas, an abandoned village in the Pafos district. Participants examined the relationship between its existing architectural features, the natural landscape and the needs of a contemporary community.
Their work included on-site research, photogrammetric documentation, digital modelling and collaborative design. They also explored ways of reusing the village’s architectural remains as part of modern spatial and social planning.
Final proposals and full-scale prototype
The workshop concluded with the presentation of final proposals for Foinikas and the development of a full-scale prototype.
A final critique and discussion were also held with the participation of the judging panel, connecting research and design with practical construction and the evaluation of the proposals.
“Fragments in Equilibrium” examined how architectural remains can accommodate new uses while preserving the memory of a place and responding to contemporary needs.
International academic collaboration
The workshop was initiated and led by Danai Polyviou, lecturer at the Architectural Association in London and director of formDP Engineering.
The programme was supported by Antonio Moll Moliner, director at Moll Architects and Integrated Design tutor at the Architectural Association; Alexandra Savtchenko, tutor at the Architectural Association; and Panayiotis Ioakim, architect at Zaha Hadid Architects and Minimaforms.
Professor Chrystalla Psathiti of Neapolis University Pafos participated in the final critiques.
The university said hosting the AA Visiting School Cyprus strengthens its cooperation with the Architectural Association and supports international academic exchange in architectural education.
