The Lakkos project is an initiative where local artist, groups and the Heraklion Municipality work together to upgrade Heraklion's previously most neglected area.The initial concept was created by local Australian visual artist Mathew Halpin, who continues to drive the project. It is based in the centre of Heraklion's old city next to the new Cultural Centre. The projects aim is to bring life back to a very fascinating area. Lakkos has in some ways been lucky because of neglect. Many of the narrow streets have not been widened in the name of 'modernization' like the most of the old city. There are not too many high rise apartments. The project has chosen a colour scheme that goes off the traditional yellow that the heritage regulations advise. The brighter colours highlight the little houses and you do not notice so much that the area is surrounded by high rises. As the project works its way around the area special attention is given to try and preserve any original features. Even old electricity power recivers are kept. Old doors, shutters and windows are lovingly scrapped, sanded and repainted, 


The Lakkos projects colour scheme was granted special permission by the Municipality of Heraklion for Lakkos only. Below is the colour scheme we suggested. Because all of the colours are donated often it is not possible to get exact matches. There is always a discussion and a plan drawn up before we paint. We consider existing colour schemes and work around them. The owners of houses are found when possible to get permissions. 

Greek translation to follow. 

Some before and after photos.