Elafina Summer Camp

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

Located in the mountainous region of Elafina near Veria, this eight-acre private campsite is immersed within a mature chestnut forest, an environment distinguished by its rich vegetation and strong natural character. Landscape–Roidis Studio was commissioned to develop the master plan, design development, and detailed landscape design for the site, creating a cohesive outdoor environment that encourages interaction with nature while supporting a diverse range of recreational, educational, and social activities.

The masterplan organizes the camp as a network of interconnected outdoor spaces carefully integrated into the existing woodland setting. Twelve accommodation buildings for children, together with a central restaurant and administration building, are distributed across the site in a manner that preserves the natural landscape and reinforces the experience of living within the forest. The layout is structured around a series of communal destinations, including an open-air theatre for summer events, an outdoor chapel, a football field, a swimming pool, organized play areas, gathering spaces, and shaded pergolas.

A comprehensive pedestrian circulation system connects all functions, encouraging movement through the landscape while maintaining a safe, vehicle-free internal environment. To preserve the pedestrian character of the camp, visitor parking is located outside the property boundaries, minimizing traffic within the site.

Material selection was guided by the desire to establish a strong connection with the surrounding mountainous landscape. Local natural flagstones were used extensively for pedestrian pathways, while durable paving systems were employed for service and vehicular routes. The planting strategy further strengthens the site's ecological integration, combining native tree species with carefully selected shrubs and groundcovers adapted to local climatic and soil conditions.

The project transforms the campsite into a landscape-led environment where architecture and nature coexist harmoniously. Through the careful integration of recreation, education, and ecological design, the camp offers an immersive setting that encourages exploration, social interaction, and a meaningful connection with the natural environment.

Location : Elafina community, Veria city, Greece

Client: Schools of Apostolos Paylos

Area: 8 acres

Scope: Total Landscape Design

Year of Design : 1999

Year of Completion: 2001

Landscape architecture: Landscape Roidis

3D Visuals:

Photographs: Landscape Roidis