date:  September 2013

program:  masterplan for the central area

type:  international competition

size:  L / 3 ha

location:  Zalau, Salaj county, Romania

team:  Wolfhouse Productions & Getrix

In 2017, Zalau Porolissum - Roman Festival will keep the community in a four days running celebration. Locals and not only, are invited to take part of the specific atmosphere for embracing the areas' strong roman history. During the festival, people will be impressed by the special parades popping up on the newly designed public space from the Marble Plateau (- Platoul de Marmura) along the pedestrian street ( - Pietonalul Unirii ) finishing in the Iuliu Maniu Square ( - Piata Iuliu Maniu). During four days, day and night, people will experience gladiators parades and wrestlings, medieval dance performances, crafts and gastronomic feasts. The festival takes place in a versatile environmnent with the specific aim to encourage social interaction.

Boundary activation process. The boundary becomes the main focus of transformation. Some areas will extend by disolving existing boundaries, others will be restructured by marking new boundaries. The balance between civic and historical spaces is given by the rapport between this limits.

Sense of place. The aim is to develop spaces that have a clear function given by their configuration and relation with the context. When using the space (perceived both by its shape and materials) the individual will feel comfortable and like he belongs to his space. The skater will easily find the ramps and bumps he needs for his ride, the parent and the child will find the protection needed to play safely, elders will find the chairs for their rest along the way.

Sustainable public space. The intervention is based on non-invasive methods and ecological materials and technologies. Therefore, the marble tiles will be knapped and recycled to be used for the new pavement design. Also, public lighting will be available thanks to photo-voltaic panels.