NOVA GORICA RAILWAY UNDERPASS (VRTAČA)

Comprehensive Urban-Architectural Design of Infrastructure and Public Space Commissioned Project | Completed A key urban link within the ECC GO! 25 strategy, this project connects Nova Gorica and Gorizia through Europe Square. By consolidating 17 railway tracks into six, the design introduces the 36.6 meter Vrtača Underpass, transforming functional infrastructure into a vibrant public asset. The design features two "sinkhole" sunken squares that bridge the gap between technical infrastructure and the surrounding landscape. Interior spaces utilize glass bricks, glossy white tiles, and a central skylight to maximize natural light. Brick paving, inspired by the historic Frnaža brickworks, symbolically grounds the intervention in the site's industrial heritage. Collaborators: SADAR+VUGA, Studio AKKA, Elea iC My Role: Parametric Modeling (Grasshopper) of the Vrtača terrain and ramps, focusing on their integration with the underpass tunnel and infrastructure Image Credit: Matjaž Prešeren (Aerial Photography)