Architecture and nature - THE SPACE IN BETWEEN

University of Belgrade, Faculty of Architecture, Belgrade, Serbia

Project idea

The location in question is located on Fruška Gora mountain, in Serbia. The location is recognized as an area of exceptional importance, but at the same time, an area that has recently become endangered. With the complete absence of awareness of nature, man began to suppress nature with "architecture". As the topic itself dictates, this project considers ways to bridge recognized problems. That is, placing architecture in the space between man and nature. Creating a space that will simultaneously bring man closer to nature, but also nature to man.
key words: between, border, visible - invisible, face - reverse, communications

Project description

In a narrower sense, the location is located next to the existing walking path that connects two large centers - Letenka and Adrevlje. Placing the project on this stretch activates the neglected area of the former Debeli Cer quarry. The very configuration of the terrain and the existing structure is such that the building is dominantly linear, with occasional "point extensions". In the spatial sense, following the existing path, a linear structure was formed, in a constant gentle slope. As we started from the existing communication, the next steps in the formation of the space were also dictated by the communication. The moves are dominantly rounded, due to adaptation to the terrain, which created an "infinite" space, i.e. the flow of movement was not interrupted.
The basic starting point was certainly the creation of a structure that will be hidden and completely adapted to the dominant natural context, with occasional indications visible from the outside perspective. The complexity of the existing move, and therefore the structure, was done by the process of sorting out the existing ones and introducing new, similar directions. In this way, a series of gaps were created which, in combination with the terrain, represent spaces for accommodating functions.

Spaces are lined up in gradation - a gradual gradation from the lowest to the highest point, as well as functions, from public to more private. The access zone is designed as a kind of environmental museum. With the possibility of adapting the functions to various cultural manifestations - concerts, performances, plays... the primary function of the space is definitely exhibition and educational. Of course, this function was accompanied by all other necessary contents, such as technical, informational, sanitary, and commercial spaces.
Each of the spaces is designed in such a way that it absolutely highlights and imitates the context. Even in cases where it is completely separated from it, it is done for the purpose of highlighting it later and achieving an even better effect. Necessary spaces, so as not to occupy additional space and disrupt the concept, were added partially as underground spaces. For example, the orange colour has a special function in whole project. It complements the existing red/orange rocks, but also improves the impresion of exterior environment ( looking at green colour after looking at orange, makes the green even greener).

Technical information

The construction is largely incorporated into the project in strip strokes so that it does not disturb its fluid form and the impression of one continuous line. The biggest challenge of the project was the footbridge installed with concrete beams with a large overhang. The beams are designed so that their dimensions do not become dominant in relation to the light glass structure of the footbridge itself and all verticals in the space. Due to the variable cross-section of the beams, the calculated loads are accepted by the structure, and the aesthetics and concept of the project itself are not damaged.