bg studio: block 39

‘block 39’ by bg studio in belgrade, serbia all images courtesy bg studio

valencia-based creative collective bg studio has sent us images of their entry into the block 39 competition in belgrade, serbia, which called for designs of the new center for the promotion of science. considering the site’s master plan as well as the building itself, the project aims to create an urban environmental that serves as an open platform where high science meets everyday life.

exterior view of the center for promotion of science

observing the current scale at which the urban grid of new belgrade is set on – which best adopts to the use of cars – the design proposes a return to the human scale of walking, providing a block in which casual encounters and socializing can occur. the fluid geometry of the site plan is the result of mapping the natural flow of people between traffic entry points and the new points of interest: the various academic and scientific institutions on the block.

interior view

the new center for promotion of science consists of two rings stacked on an offset angle, creating a visual tension of movement and centripetal force. the circular organization allows a continuous connection between the park and the central patio of the building. playing off the abstract idea of ‘force fields’, the center aims to stand as a point of gravity, attracting people from around the park. these rings are illustrated in both landscaping and pavement details, marking a ‘spill-over’ zone where exchange between faculties can happen in a public arena.

underground parking level

overall

‘new matrix of block39 = human scale of the old town (walking, not driving) + low density of the new belgrade (vast green zones)’ (top) schematic diagram of site section (bottom) schematic diagram of site plan