As part of its urban regeneration program, the city of Trofa launched an international competition for its centerpiece, the Trofa Cultural Center. Our proposal defines three volumes—two positive and one negative: the auditorium, the showroom, and the open-air performance plaza—all enveloped by smaller program elements. The main spaces are housed within massive stacked concrete volumes, while the rest interact along a perforated façade system.

Composed around three defining volumes—two positive and one negative: the auditorium, the showroom, and the open-air performance plaza. The program unfolds a synergy of uses within a gradient of privacy, not only including coffee areas and educational services to the public but also core parts of the creative process that the building takes part in, such as artist residencies and rehearsal rooms.

The design integrates the building with the public space, blurring the line between indoors and outdoors and inviting passersby to join the activities inside. The surrounding outdoor areas will host performances, markets, and leisure spaces, reinforcing the boulevard's role as a social and cultural hub.

The open-air plaza is the negative imprint of the three main performance spaces, not just in front but integrated within the building itself. A bold statement of openness, inviting the city inside. Designed for flexibility, it allows free movement or transforms into an outdoor stage.

The rooftop features 1,150m² of solar panels, making the building fully self-sufficient. The open-air central plaza creates a natural convection effect, where rising hot air pulls in cooler air from street level, enhancing airflow in summer while allowing more sunlight in winter. A perforated facade filters natural light, and green rooftop areas improve insulation, reduce energy consumption, and help balance CO₂—combining efficiency with sustainability.

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