HARBOUR SYMPHONY

Idea projektu

The Harbour Symphony project is a design for a cultural and social building on the banks of the Danube, based on a combination of acoustic analysis, visual system and spatial articulation. The aim of the concept is to reinterpret architectural design through the use of sound as a generative tool and its translation into a material, spatial and structural solution. Architecture as sound composition The basic idea behind the design is based on acoustic research of the Danube water surface, carried out directly in the area in question over several periods. The recorded environmental sounds were then digitally analyzed and compositionally integrated with selected fragments of world symphonic music, with an emphasis on works with strong emotional and genre recognition codes. The resulting multi-layered sound composition was transformed into a spatial 3D model in which the acoustic parameters – in particular amplitude and frequency spectrum – were directly used as determinants for the creation of the object's material and spatial arrangement. This methodology converts the phenomenon of sound into physical architecture, creating a specific form of "musical urbanism.". Visual-acoustic synergy A dynamic visual coding system in the form of a color scale was applied to the resulting sound track, reflecting the character and genre identity of the music being interpreted. This system is implemented in the light-interactive elements of the object, allowing visitors to intuitively perceive the dramaturgy of the musical work currently being performed. This creates a multimodal experience in which the auditory and visual components support each other and generate a unique spatial atmosphere.

Popis projektu

Material and spatial design The mass composition of the object is a direct result of the analysis of acoustic intensity – the highest amplitude values were converted into volumes forming the core of the building, specifically the main concert hall. Areas with lower intensity served as the basis for generating secondary elements, such as the bridge structure connecting the embankment with the building and the entrance vestibules. The building is vertically divided into five above-ground floors with the following functional layout: 1st floor: publicly accessible area with sanitary and cloakroom facilities, a multifunctional hall and a café 2nd floor: technical and mechanical facilities, including air conditioning, 3rd floor: technical and mechanical facilities, including air conditioning, 4th floor: main foyer with an entrance bridge and stairwell, allowing for smooth movement, 5th floor: technical and mechanical facilities, including air conditioning. Ground floor: technical and mechanical facilities, including ventilation, 3rd floor: main foyer with entrance bridge and stairwell, allowing visitors to move smoothly into the concert hall, 4th floor: secondary foyer, facilities for performers (including dressing rooms, rehearsal rooms, and musical instrument storage), 5th Floor: main concert hall with a capacity of 1,000 spectators, equipped with facilities and backstage areas with direct logistical connection to the musical instrument storage room one floor below. 6th floor: balcony of the music hall with seating The seating system in the hall respects the ideal curve of visibility and at the same time reflects the dynamics of the space through adaptive, swivel seats. Access to the hall is barrier-free via lifts and two side staircases. Public space and urban connections The building creates an active dialogue with its surroundings through several entry points. At ground level, there is direct access from the public space of the embankment. On the opposite side, there are plans to connect to a future water transport stop, which will allow access from the water level. However, the dominant feature is the bridge over the water, which serves as a symbolic and functional link between the city, water, and music. Harbour Symphony is an experimental yet precisely articulated architectural concept that uses sound as a tool to shape space and atmosphere. It is a synthesis of architecture, music, and technology that redefines the way cultural infrastructure can communicate with public space, the urban context, and the audience. The object functions as a tool for creating an experience where music becomes space and space becomes music.

Technické informácie

The "house within a house" construction principle The construction system is designed as a double envelope: the outer part consists of a steel self-supporting glass façade, which fulfills aesthetic, protective and environmental functions. The interior volume of the concert hall is a separate wooden structure made of glued beams and double-layer grids. This layered structure provides: - thermal and acoustic insulation, - technological ventilation systems, - visitor corridors in the space between the envelopes. The entire structure is statically transferred by steel columns anchored to the foundation and roof slabs. Flood protection measures Given the location in the immediate vicinity of the Danube, comprehensive flood protection measures have been implemented. In the event of extreme water levels, the glass surfaces on the first floor are protected by mobile flood barriers. All technologically sensitive and cultural-functional spaces are located above the expected flood level.