THE SUNNY CITY
Publish Date
April 15th, 2024
Project Type
Urbanism & Architecture
Client
Nikšić CIty
Duration
1 Month
The Sunny City
About Project
CONCEPTUAL ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN OF THE RESIDENTIAL-COMMERCIAL COMPLEX "Sunny City"
The biggest challenge in planning and designing the conceptual solution was the railway tracks intersecting the site, which divided the area into potential zones. The starting idea is to promote urban mobility, encourage the use of environmentally friendly transportation, reduce the number of motor vehicles, and increase traffic safety. Vehicular traffic is separated from pedestrian traffic by green corridors. Addressing the challenges of the location led to the idea of radial pedestrian paths, the concept of sun rays, and the motif of the "Sunny City" competition. Metaphorically, the "sun" becomes the architectural leitmotif of the entire concept, with its rays representing the main pedestrian lines and communication links between all functional zones of the site. Urbanistically, the "sun" concept creates functionality and an original visual identity for the settlement, the city of Nikšić, and Montenegro.
The disconnection of zones was solved by creating a "bridge" for pedestrian and bicycle traffic, without compromising the railway. The shape of the bridge is inspired by the name of the settlement "Sunny City" and the urban environment of Nikšić, with a central roundabout resembling sun rays.
Radial pedestrian and bicycle paths from the dome (the northern part of the "sun") connect all zones, defining the locations for building objects and facilities. They are filled with greenery, water surfaces, and playgrounds, with a pleasant slope beneath which locomotives can pass.
By forming the main pedestrian-bicycle artery, safe movement of all users, including persons with disabilities, is enabled, allowing unobstructed activities within the settlement, surrounded by spacious sidewalks, bicycle paths, and green belts. After this, the conceptual design was further developed. The residential-commercial complex in zones A1, A2, and partly D, with an elliptical shape and organic forms, gives the first impression of the settlement. Bridges connecting buildings represent the gateway to the settlement, both functionally and aesthetically. Five towers in zone D create a recognizable style and "canon" for future designers.
Zone D is centrally reserved for the sports hall "Sunny Arena," which follows the fluidity and rounded shape, surrounded by greenery. The Nikšić Science and Technology Park, with green roofs and modern architecture, becomes a center for research, sustainable development, and business opportunities.
Zone F2 is intended for greenery, a park, and a recreational center, near the school, kindergarten, and Science and Technology Park. The residential-commercial complex in zone E has green roofs, a terraced form, and emphasizes the focal point of the settlement.
The shopping center in zone C combines modern design and ecological awareness, with a green roof and landscaped surroundings, creating harmony between urban life and nature. In zone B, existing buildings receive a new look with bay windows and green roofs, while newly designed buildings offer a more intimate part of the settlement for single-family housing.
The "Sunny City" settlement is based on ecological awareness and energy efficiency, with 60% green areas and green roofs. Buildings will be constructed according to green building principles, with a recommendation for the use of solar panels. The goal is the humanization of cities, preservation of ecological conditions, promotion of urban mobility, and the creation of a cohesive settlement that attracts young people and young couples, providing them space for work and comfortable living, as well as ensuring a quality environment for all age groups.