Agricultural Research Center in Cluj

Authors’ Comment

The diploma project is located in the Mănăștur neighborhood of Cluj, a place that developed rapidly during the communist period. The traditions of the inhabitants, including agricultural activities, are preserved through the existing community gardens. In addition to the existence of improvised community gardens on the site, in the Mănăștur neighborhood of Cluj there are numerous events, courses and workshops on the theme of agriculture, including courses for students from schools near the site. These activities, although frequent, take place in spaces that are not properly designed. The degree project responds to the wishes and ambition of the community to continue and develop these activities by creating an integrated agricultural research center.

The concept is based on non-invasive interventions, using transparent glass buildings and open structures, allowing vegetation to invade the structures and blur the boundaries between architecture and nature. The center will include community gardens, a market for selling produce, greenhouses and educational facilities, benefiting from the proximity of institutions in the area.

The structure of the project follows the guidelines of agricultural fields, gradually transitioning from research buildings to community gardens. As it approaches the community gardens, the structure gradually disintegrates, creating filters from the street to the relationship with the river. The exploration of the space varies according to the season, with vegetation growing on the metal structure and generating natural shadows. These elements facilitate the connection between the community and the adjacent landscape, providing a conducive environment for agricultural and educational activities.

Community gardens offer residents the opportunity to be directly involved in growing and caring for plants, and the local produce market supports the local economy. At the same time, the project benefits from the proximity of educational and research institutions in the area, creating opportunities for collaboration and development of educational programs. The project benefits from the proximity of educational and research institutions in the area, creating opportunities for collaboration and development of educational programs

The open and transparent structure of the buildings allows visitors to observe agricultural processes and become familiar with sustainable practices. These buildings also serve as spaces for workshops, conferences and community events, strengthening the connection between residents and the research center.