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Architects: Faculty of Architecture, University of Zagreb
- Area: 11900 m²
- Year: 2011
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Photographs:Miro Martinić
Text description provided by the architects. The Croatian Bishops' Conference building is an administrative and cultural center and a residence of the top hierarchical structure of Catholic church in Croatia. The building is located in an attractive northern area of the city with gardens and green public areas. It is positioned on a gentle slope with a park and two individual buildings: the Bishop's Ordinariate building and the Papal Nuncio's residence.
The front of the building faces the main road which provides access to the building. It also functions as the external side of the atrium covering the internal courtyard and the ground floor. Its white onyx slats cladding acts at the same time as an effective shading device. However, its special effect is created by night due to its light absorption and emission properties. The decision to use this material was inspired both by its aesthetic properties and the symbolism of the building referring to light and purity.
The atrium around the internal courtyard accommodates the offices. The central area contains a chapel and a conference room whereas the east-facing residential area with a view of the park is located in the rear. These two areas are distinguished by the use of different materials such as concrete or plastic cladding acting in harmony with the onyx cladding. The building dominates the gentle slope with its position, undisturbed horizontals and a shimmering facade screening off complex and dynamic activities going on in its interior.
Courtesy of Nenad Fabijanić
