The eye of the circulatory whirlpool houses a new square and part of an exterior exhibition space which continues through under the massive roof structure. A restaurant and cafe are located under the inhabitable canopy along the riverfront, with commercial spaces closer to the fortress for easier access from the street. The woven Bedlam of rings allow the user to find their ideal space based on the variety of programs existing in different sections, as well as the proximity of the surrounding sites.
This vibrant pedestrian square will serve as the principle access point from the capital’s riverfront to it’s historic core. The encircling bridges above ground separate the pedestrian from the subterranean parking garage and the transportation hub linking the ferry terminal, tram and bus. The structure exists as an array of social and transport functions, located in the middle of a culturally rich site, which joins the various components in a free-flowing circulatory whirlwind.
REPORT BY COMPETITION JURY
First Prize
This scheme stood out form the rest of competitors by offering a simple, but refined complexity. Viewed from Novi Beograd and from the bridge, new spaces gracefully underline the skyline of historic Kalemegdan, without competing with its elegant silhouette. Colorful, flowery treatment of the roof, the veritable fifth façade of the project, enriches the view from the hill and offers its immense space to variety of urban uses. Skillfully combined, two functional volumes constitute architectural body of the project and hint at the variety of expressions of everyday life of Belgrade, high level of flexibility which invites and accepts evolution and healthy change.
