CULTURAL CENTER CASA RADIO

PROFESSOR: ADRIAN SPIRESCU

TYPE: MIXED USE

SITE: BUCHAREST, ROMANIA

PARTNER: IRINA ANTOHE

01. MANIFESTO

The proposed project in Bucharest is a conversion of a communist building that has remained unfinished till this day. The aim of the project is to transform the building into a cultural center, encompassing a diverse range of functions such as workshops, exhibitions, cinema, theater, restaurant, atrium, communism museum, and cloth showroom .

Architecture is the thoughtful making of space. Conversion is not subtraction, but an addition of layers. Every time we convert a building, we add a layer of history, memory, and culture. We stitch new threads into the rich tapestry of our built environment, creating a dialogue between the old and the new. To convert is to engage with time, to bridge the past and the future, and to create something that is greater than the sum of its parts.

- Bjarke Ingels

The main objective of the project is to preserve the existing structure and highlight the building itself, thus only necessary renovations have been carried out in damaged areas. The end result of the project will be a unique cultural center that not only serves its intended purpose but also serves as a symbol of Bucharest’s rich history and cultural heritage.

THE ATRIUM space is designed as a dynamic gathering area that can be transformed to host a range of events, from concerts to exhibitions. The space features a versatile seating arrangement that can be reconfigured to create intimate gathering spaces or larger performance areas, depending on the needs of the event. Another example is the communism museum, which incorporates interactive exhibits that allow visitors to experience the history of communism in Romania in a tangible way. The exhibits include tactile artifacts, interactive displays, and multimedia installations that create a multi-sensory experience for visitors

THE LIBRARY has been thoughtfully designed to provide readers with not only a wealth of knowledge but also a refreshing environment that nurtures the mind and soul. The incorporation of small plants and green spaces within the library not only enhances the aesthetics of the space but also serves a functional purpose. The plants help to purify the air and increase oxygen levels, providing a healthy and rejuvenating environment for readers. The green spaces also create a sense of calm and tranquility, allowing readers to focus and concentrate better on their reading material. Overall, the design of the library promotes a holistic approach to learning, combining the intellectual and physical well-being of its users

THE CLOTH SHOWROOM is a unique and innovative addition to the building. The showroom will offer a space for designers, artists, and fashion enthusiasts to showcase their work and collaborate with others in the industry. The showroom will feature a flexible layout that can be easily adapted to accommodate different exhibitions and events. It will be equipped with the latest lighting and sound systems, making it a state-of-the-art venue for fashion shows and presentations. The showroom will also serve as a platform for promoting sustainable and ethical fashion practices, highlighting the importance of responsible consumption in the fashion industry.

THE CINEMA within this project is designed to offer a stateof-the-art movie experience for its visitors. The cinema space is carefully crafted to accommodate a variety of viewing experiences, with comfortable seating arrangements and optimal acoustics. The audio and visual equipment are of the highest quality, ensuring a captivating and immersive cinematic experience. The cinema also features a small concession stand, offering a variety of refreshments and snacks to its patrons.

THE RESTAURANT and sky bar located near the rooftop of the project provide a unique dining experience with an open kitchen and mezzanine levels. The design of the restaurant is modern and sleek, with an emphasis on natural materials and a neutral color palette. The open kitchen allows customers to see the chefs in action, adding to the overall dining experience. The mezzanine levels provide additional seating options and offer stunning views of the surrounding area.

THE MOVIE STUDIO, which has been embedded into the larger complex. The studio boasts adjustable panels that enable precise control of illumination and light intensity, thus ensuring optimal conditions for filming. By offering filmmakers in the community access to this fully-equipped and versatile space, the project contributes significantly to the revitalization of the cultural landscape of Bucharest.

THE POLIVALENT pyramid-shaped hall is a central feature of the proposed cultural center in Bucharest. The hall is designed to be a versatile space that can accommodate a range of events and gatherings, such as exhibitions, concerts, and conferences. One unique aspect of the hall is its squareshaped oculus located above the main stage, which not only provides natural light but also creates a dramatic effect for performances.

The existing structure of the building has been redesigned to accommodate these functions while preserving its historical significance. The project incorporates a glass facade facing the green space, which not only provides ample natural light but also offers scenic views of the surrounding area.

Another notable feature of the hall is its retractable steps, which can be folded back to expand the main area and accommodate larger events. This flexible design ensures that the hall can adapt to the changing needs of the community and provides a dynamic space for cultural activities. The polivalent pyramid-shaped hall serves as a focal point of the cultural center, offering an exciting and innovative space for artistic expression and community engagement.

There is a smaller inner atrium surrounded by offices with paralepipedic volumes arranged in a rhythmic pattern. Some offices even feature cantilevers that break away from traditional designs, adding to the building’s uniqueness. The combination of the open inner atrium and the cantilevered offices creates an interesting interplay between negative and positive space, light, and shadow.