FOREST OF LIGHTS

Design firm Fuksas developed the idea through a historical investigation of the site, which revealed that the site was intended to host the primary city square, even as far back as the Roman period. After investigation Fuksas revealed the original Roman layout of the square, which has become fragmented due to the development of contemporary architecture.

The square will be constructed around the Orthodox cathedral of Sveta Hedelya and will provide contemporary public space to an area that is yearning for a public transformation.

The team at Fuksas proposed a redevelopment based on the integration of cultural and urban archaeological heritage to create a steadfast identity in one of the most symbolic places in the city. 

The square will feature an open-air museum that will also provide a place for social engagement.

A significant element of the square will be a series of glowing high-tech pillars that allude to a forest in shape and function. The design of the pillars will reconnect the portico of the cathedral to the square. The pillars will be fitted with photovoltaic cells that convert solar light into energy and will also be vessels for the collection, purification and reuse of rainwater to be used for various water features inside the square.

“The design for the new Sveta Nedelya Square foresees the removal of all the latter-day additions, which alter the beauty of the buildings around it,” explained Fuksas. “All the architectures overlooking the square do not simply make up the backdrop of this space, but rather, they are the principal subjects on the basis of which this space has taken shape over time and is now being reconsidered and redesigned.”

Images courtesy of Fuksas