111 – EM1997 – ABDULLAH AL-LUAIBI

Main Author: Abdullah Al-Luaibi

“The design does not propose any significant improvements of the existing situation of the Tulcea central area and is not elaborated enough on any level, from general concepts to design details and materiality, thus failing to meet the criteria set out in the brief.” – appreciation of the Jury.

I propose for the Central Urban Plaza in Tulcea a series of gentle interventions that  transform the central civic plaza while still respecting the existing site conditions.

A sunken plaza is proposed running along the main axis of the civic plaza. Lined with two rows of tall trees, it forms a natural space for meeting and gathering. Furthermore, the existing fountain is opened towards the sunken plaza, giving visitors a more direct experience of the water feature. Gabion retaining walls double as benches, and the loose gravel floor aids with stormwater management. Two small mounds are formed from the debris and earth that is removed from the construction of the sunken plaza. I propose the relocation of the monument to Mircea the Elder to the top of the larger hill, to give the statue a dignified view onto the plaza.

The axial water motif continues onto the area of Unirii Street. A shallow artificial stream is located in the middle of the street. The stream is bounded on both sides by curved benches that provide intimate spaces for gathering along the edge of the water feature.

I believe the existing design of the Three Fountains area to be quite good. Therefore interventions in this area such as some minor planting are kept to a minimal degree in order to preserve the existing design layout.