Conceptual solution for the restoration of part of the Old Church Complex in Sarajevo

Project idea

Conceptual Design for the Restoration of Part of the Old Church Complex in Sarajevo focuses on the construction of a new building segment designated for a gallery and a multifunctional hall. The primary objective is the sensitive integration of contemporary functions within a culturally and historically significant context. The Old Orthodox Church complex represents one of the oldest preserved sacred structures in Sarajevo, bearing exceptional spiritual and historical importance. The design is the result of a comprehensive analysis of the existing architectural environment, in which key elements—such as steeply pitched roofs, the rhythmic pattern of window openings, and the traditional wooden church porch—are reinterpreted through a contemporary architectural vocabulary.

Project description

The gallery and multifunctional hall are conceived as a thoughtful architectural intervention within the complex of the Old Orthodox Church in Sarajevo. The project aims to integrate new cultural functions into a historically and culturally sensitive context, without disrupting its spatial or symbolic integrity.
The building form draws upon the rhythm and scale of the existing complex, offering a contemporary interpretation of tradition through a series of interconnected volumes with steep pitched roofs. Rather than replicating historical forms, the design references traditional elements—roof geometry, proportions, and façade rhythm—reinterpreted in a modern architectural language. Materials such as corten steel and glass clearly define the new layer of intervention, establishing a distinct yet respectful contrast with the existing structures.
The interior is designed as a flexible space, capable of accommodating exhibitions, lectures, workshops, and small-scale public events. Functional zones are clearly organized, with visual and spatial continuity toward the courtyard.
The project is based on a contemporary reading of traditional architecture, seeking not to mimic the past, but to engage with it meaningfully. The result is a discreet yet confident addition that complements the historical value of the church complex while supporting its future cultural role.

Technical information

The building consists of two volumes with dimensions of 20 × 6 m and 13.5 × 7 m, both single-storey. On the southern side, the structure adjoins the existing building, and its form was initially shaped in response to this connection. Following this part, a section of the volume is recessed to create an internal atrium. On the interior side, the main entrance includes a wind lobby that provides a framed view of the church complex upon entry, enhancing the spatial experience and reinforcing the connection to the surrounding context.In the second volume, the building increases in height and the roof slope changes, introducing dynamic articulation along the southern facade. At the center of this segment, a vertical glass panel is placed, following the lines of the church bell tower, visually linking the new structure to its historic surroundings.The northern facade has a cubic form, with the sloped roof transitioning into a flat surface. The structural system consists of reinforced concrete frames with columns measuring 30 × 40 cm and beams 30 × 50 cm. The frames are braced with steel I-beams (8 × 16 cm), and additional tension cables are used in specific locations for reinforcement. All exterior walls are insulated with 12 cm of thermal insulation and finished with a ventilated corten steel facade.

Documentation

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