OH(G)RID
Competition / Terraviva competition
Project name / OH(G)RID
North Macedonia / 2024
The reconstruction project on the shore of one of Europe's oldest lakes aims to preserve and build upon the legacy of the renowned architect Boris Chipan, while integrating modern design principles within the city's historical context. Chipan's core philosophy-respect for cultural heritage and the environment-will form the foundation of this project.
At the heart of the concept is "rethought modernism," which builds on the modular grid of the existing structure. This approach ensures harmony with the surrounding environment and the scale of the development. Lightweight metal structures create soft boundaries in the landscape, blending the new elements with the greenery. The new structures are subordinated to the unified grid, which highlights the significance of the main club building and introduces new perspectives in design through the use of modules. Each module acts as a bridge between the old and the new, integrating the complex into its environment while preserving its historical legacy. Importantly, the modular system offers flexibility in space usage: modules can be easily added, removed, or reconfigured to meet various needs. This adaptability ensures the space can evolve over time, supporting diverse activities and fostering community engagement.
The creation of a new promenade along the lake strengthens both the functional and emotional connection to the water. The delicate shaping of volumes from rough materials softens the rigid lines of the beach, creating cozy spaces for relaxation. Covered modules offer high variability in public spaces, seamlessly flowing into one another. With no strict boundaries, these spaces encourage interaction between different zones.
The materials used in the project reference Chipan's works, initiating a dialogue between past and present. This concept not only preserves and revitalizes architectural heritage but also adapts it to modern needs, creating a space where the old and new coexist harmoniously.