Sofia Multifunctional Complex Bulgaria : Architecture

Sofia Masterplan

Sofia masterplan

The buildings are anchored and the space between is defined by an extensive central park, with fingers of vegetation stretching out towards the city. The different heights of the buildings then rise and fall in a gentle wave around its perimeter in response to the path of the sun. Within each volume, a large void has also been created to function as an internal courtyard and further contribute to the scheme's progressive environmental strategy.

Curving around the outer edge in the south of the site allows the exhibition buildings to maximise the available internal open space and accommodate a flexible range of large-scale shows and trade fairs. The open, commercial character of this point in the triangular plan will extend to influence the adjoining office street, echoing aspects of the city's strategic location along the trade route to Istanbul. The Knowledge Centre, anchoring the buildings to the north of the scheme will function as a lively forum for learning, debate, exploration and entertainment and also serve as an accessible extension of the public realm. The low-rise nature of much of the Sofia masterplan provides a measured counterpoint to the tower, which will enjoy views of the park and mountains beyond as well as providing a marker for the development from the wider city.



Multifunctial Complex, Sofia Competition
Sofia, Bulgaria
2008-09

Client: Government of Bulgaria

Programme: Mixed-use Masterplan

Competition: 2008 - Apr 2009
Site Area: 632,000m²

Breakdown of Sofia Multifunctional Complex Masterplan:
Housing 90,000 m²
Retail 140,000 m²
Office 300,000 m²
Hotel 150,000 m²
Park 100,000 m²
Exhibition Hall 60,000 m²
Knowledge Centre 50,000 m²
Other 240,000 m²