5 Squares

Type: Competition Entry for Central City Square of Rahovec
Program: Public Space (Square, Garden, Amphitheater, Market, and Existing Stadium)
Location: Rahovec, Kosovo
Size: 45,000sm
Year: 2020

This proposal is for an open and multi-functional public place that reflects the culture and heritage of the city and the citizens of Rahovec. 5 Squares accommodates various activities and events that welcomes the citizens and neighborhood of Rahovec community. The new square is transformed as a car-free zone, which dedicates to pedestrian access in order to create a seamless space, and preserve the most valuable history in the heart of the city of Rahovec.

The municipality of Rahovec is located in the southwestern part of Kosovo which is rich in cultural and natural heritages. The city is characterized by cultural values and preserved and cultivated tradition throughout generations. The new central city square will be a part of future development of the city, in order to continue and sustain the precious values with the new generation.

5 Squares consist of commercial, cultural, historical, and sport areas. Those major 4 programs are located on each side of the site and facing the city while respecting the contexts of the city such as building height and street size. The central open square is surrounded by 4 major programs that is the center for meeting, gathering, rest, performance and emptiness.

The West Square is an indoor gathering space for market, wine cellar for promotion, and dining. The status will be relocated to the Northern Square which will be a historical part of the site. Amphitheater for performance and gathering will be located south and the East sports hall is maintained. Each Square has a steel structure roof which is finished with aluminum sheets that reflect the neighbourhood and activities of the square itself. The curved shaped roof has a low profile at the perimeter of the site to be consistent with existing building height and landscape of the city, and higher at center to be more open and get more sunlight as required. The tall roof structure will provide not only a feeling of openness, but also extend the potential of various future events.

5 Squares will be a place for all citizens that participate in cultural events, sports, and recreation, and the new history will take place.