A cultural hub in the historic town
The transformation of the Old Glassworks and its surrounding public spaces in Ptuj breathes new life into the town’s historic fabric. More than a physical restoration, the project seeks to reinvigorate Ptuj’s cultural identity, ensuring its continued relevance. The revitalized complex introduces high-quality public spaces that seamlessly connect the castle hill, the town, and the river, creating a dynamic urban experience.

Balancing history and modernity
Two distinct spaces define the project: Vrazov Trg, a formal square and cultural epicenter, and the more intimate Old Glassworks courtyard. While Vrazov Trg remains a focal point for events, the Old Glassworks transforms as needed—its cantilevered doors open to the street, turning it into an inviting public square. This flexibility allows the space to adapt to diverse cultural activities, bridging old and new while addressing the varied needs of the community.

A versatile design for cultural expression
Designed for adaptability, the new complex accommodates a range of unconventional uses. Both halls can fully open to integrate with the courtyard, and the large event hall features adjustable stage platforms that extend into an outdoor auditorium. The interplay of historic and contemporary elements is most evident in the interiors, where old house walls shape the ground-floor ambiance, while a skylit corridor in the attic marks the transition between past and present.

Materiality rooted in heritage
The architectural approach emphasizes simplicity, highlighting walls, cornices, and roofs with a tectonic logic that respects the historical context. Locally sourced materials reinforce this connection—excavated river pebbles, once used in the historic city center, now restore Ptuj’s traditional color palette. The exposed concrete facade, formed with wooden semicircular molds, will naturally develop a patina over time, further embedding the building within its surroundings.

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