PROBLEM

The starting point of this project was identifying a series of critical points in the city that we considered problematic. These were mostly related to outdated urban infrastructure elements, and the selected locations were treated as areas in need of temporary and swift intervention. We chose three locations in the city as experimental sites for our project: the dilapidated bus terminal (whose potential relocation is expected in the near future), the abandoned TEŽ complex (a former industrial site, now a neglected fossil near the city center), and the intersection of Branimirova and Držićeva streets (a complex multi-level urban hub where various types of movement awkwardly intersect). These are weak points of the city, and addressing them would be a massive financial and logistical undertaking, so their resolution cannot be expected quickly. Due to the large number of such places in the city, we propose a temporary intervention in the urban space, which, in direct dialogue with the decaying infrastructure present at the locations, would attempt to compensate for its shortcomings and mask them until they are properly addressed, creating an attractive counterpoint – their complement.

We propose a modular system of 3x3m steel frames, into which standardized modules would be installed based on the intended use of the space. The steel grid would be painted in a vibrant orange, creating a bold contrast against the dominant blue tones of Zagreb’s infrastructure. Surrounding ground plane would also follow the 3x3 grid set by the pavilions in a two-dimensional layout, further emphasizing their presence within the space.

Although all interventions are made from the same components, we propose a distinct morphology for each. This approach ensures that each location's specific needs are met in the optimal way while also allowing us to experiment with spatial forms and the effects they produce. Thus we create a line, a dot and a cluster.

SOLUTION

BUS TERMINAL

This transportation hub is of significant importance, handling thousands of passengers daily. Originally constructed in a postmodern style for the 1987 Universiade in Zagreb, it has suffered from poor maintenance since then. The building's deteriorating condition, combined with overcrowding and the absence of sufficient pedestrian space, make it a problematic area. Notable for its steel lattice roof and striking blue color, it remains an iconic, though neglected, part of the city’s infrastructure.

Location №1

Location №2

Location №3

TEŽ complex

TEŽ is short for Tvornica Električnih Žarulja (cro. Electric Bulb Factory). Production was halted more than two decades ago, yet the future of the facility remains an unresolved urban issue. Within the complex stands a prominent vertical landmark—a kind of totem of light—a slender glass tower designed by renowned Croatian architect Lavoslav Horvat. Built to showcase the factory’s work to passersby across the city, this underappreciated landmark adds another layer of complexity to the site’s redevelopment. The surrounding area is defined by a vast open field with excavated foundations for an office building that was never constructed. Over the past 20 years, the excavation site has gradually transformed into an artificial lake.

BRANIMIROVA-DRŽIČEVA INTERSECTION

An exceptionally busy and multi-layered intersection where trains, cars, trams, cyclists, and pedestrians all converge. At the center of Branimirova, a green strip was reserved for the extension of the tram line—one that is unlikely to be built anytime soon. Within this strip, there are scattered signs of attempts to activate the space for pedestrians, including a few ackwardly placed benches, the occasional trash bin, and an advertising panel. The space is defined by an unremarkable market building, a rusting railway overpass, and a constant flow of people and traffic. All of this is accompanied by the rumble of trains passing over old tracks, the screeching of tram wheels, and the relentless noise of road traffic.

Morphology:
DOT

Morphology:
CLUSTER

Morphology:
LINE

Frame assembly manual

Modules

3d modules are placed in the space surrounding the main pavillion, as a mean to further enrich the area, and to atract even more citizens using the aging infrastructure we aim to help give a temporary fix.

2d panel modules are placed within the steel frames of the pavillion, thus creating specific spaces within the construction to achieve an atractive spacial landmark and take away from the not so representative surroundings

Location №1 Bus terminal square

Plan

Opposite the entrance to the station, a small triangular square, enclosed by the narrow streets of a residential neighborhood, remains an open island within the dense urban fabric. Largely undefined, except for a single worn footpath cutting across it—offering key insight into movement patterns—the space is mostly occupied by parked cars and a poorly maintained, seemingly arbitrary patch of grass. The only exceptions are a few trees planted along its perimeter and a row of old plane trees lining the northern edge of the triangle.

We consider these trees a valuable asset that we do not wish to remove, especially given the temporary nature of our intervention. We see them as a long-term quality of the space. Similarly, we have chosen to preserve the existing footpath in its original position, creating a break in an otherwise rigid grid.

The space is dominated by the cube of our pavilion—a focal point and a striking vertical element. Designed as a pavilion of nature, it serves as a pleasant, greenery-filled waiting area, complementing the adjacent station. In addition to the station, we identified another key user group: students of the high school to the north, who likely created the worn path across the lawn as they take a shortcut from the tram stop in front of the station to their school entrance.

To further activate the square, we introduce outdoor seating areas for proposed cafés on the southern side, catering to both local residents and visitors, transforming the space into a public living room. Additionally, we propose a fountain and a children’s playground, enhancing the square’s role as a vibrant and inviting urban space.

Pavillion

The pavilion is based on a modular square grid that extends across both horizontal and vertical planes, creating a three-dimensional spatial system. Within this system, various interchangeable infill panels are implemented, allowing the pavilion to adapt to specific functions, site conditions, and desired atmospheric experiences. This approach promotes flexibility and spatial transformability in response to contextual and programmatic demands.

Fluidly shaped horizontal platforms introduce a sense of dynamism, subtly contrasting with the rigid orthogonality of the modular grid. This interplay between geometric precision and organic lines adds spatial depth, enabling the pavilion to accommodate diverse perceptions and usage scenarios.

Spatial flexibility is further emphasized through the design of mobile furniture. Cube-shaped stools, made from lightweight materials, allow for easy repositioning and reorganization within the pavilion, empowering users to actively participate in shaping and redefining the space.

This adaptable structure supports multiple typologies of use, including temporary waiting areas, exhibition spaces, screening zones, play and exercise areas, or observation points. Defined by its spatial transformability and contextual sensitivity, this architectural solution reinforces the concept of the pavilion as an open and interactive system that responds to contemporary spatial needs and challenges.

Section

Ambient