The first visit to the site took place while the building was still under construction.

The space in question was long and rectangular, with two enclosed long sides and two sides completely open. This openness meant sweeping urban views over Athens penetrated deep into the space; it informed the entire design process. On one side stand Filopappou Hill, an assortment of typical Athenian apartment blocks and, moreover, the dark mass of the new Acropolis Museum sitting directly beneath a view to the Parthenon. On the other side lie the yards and backs of buildings, Syngrou Avenue and, in the distance, Mount Hymettus.