Arts square in Sombor (Second prize)

Milena Zindović

Awarded second prize at the architectural competition, the design for the Arts Square in Sombor by architects Milena Zindović and Riste Dobrijević envisions a dynamic new urban space. Located within "Venac," the city’s protected historical downtown, the square is carefully conceived as an open-air extension of the surrounding cultural institutions, primarily the Palace of Culture and the National Theater.
Respecting the classicist architecture and volumes of the surrounding buildings, the design establishes an essential urban environment capable of accommodating various scenarios. To achieve this, the terrain's level changes are addressed by grouping vertical communications—stairs and a ramp—into a fixed linear element. This cleanly divides the location into two distinct yet complementary zones: the upper Arts Square and the lower access area for the Library and Theater.
The upper space, leveled with the Palace of Culture, features a clear, simple geometric shape that emphasizes its classic character. This barrier-free area is highly adaptable, designed to seamlessly host stages and seating in multiple configurations during cultural manifestations. Furthermore, the incorporation of foldable and movable urban furniture ensures that the square remains an inviting, functional space for citizens to enjoy daily, at all hours and across all seasons.
In contrast, the lower space focuses on intimacy and shading, acting as an inviting passage toward the main square. Its design formally connects to the existing adjunct passage by introducing striking circular green areas. These green circles preserve existing trees, introduce new planting towards the Theater’s back facade, and accommodate the necessary turning radiuses for cargo trucks. By treating this lower area as a shaded, quiet prelude, the main Arts Square is visually revealed in a dramatic sequence from all access points, highlighting its classicist charm and immense multi-functional potential.

Project Gallery

Arts square in Sombor

Arts square in Sombor

Arts square in Sombor

Arts square in Sombor

Arts square in Sombor

Arts square in Sombor

Milena Zindović RS

http://www.mzstudio.rs
| Belgrade