iris

The design for the new IRIS Center in Ljubljana aims to create an innovative, accessible, and inclusive educational and residential facility for individuals with visual impairments. The conceptual approach is grounded in three core principles: environmental sustainability, dialogue between old and new, and universal accessibility. The project enhances the historic “DOM” building by converting it into a student residence, and integrates it with a new, compact school volume to the north, which shields the central garden from urban noise. This green core serves as the project’s generating element—a true “sensory oasis” around which all programmatic functions are organized, in visual continuity with the nearby Toscanini Park. The new brick building features a tiered section and recessed openings, establishing a discreet dialogue with the DOM while maintaining its formal independence. A single-storey connecting volume acts as the main circulation spine between the buildings and is topped with an accessible green roof. The central atrium functions as the spatial and functional hub of the center, from which clear and linear circulation routes extend along the north–south and east–west axes, designed to support intuitive orientation and personal autonomy. All spaces—both interior and exterior—are conceived for sensory accessibility, incorporating tactile pathways, Braille signage, and visually distinctive environments. The intervention returns to the neighborhood an open, permeable, and welcoming center that respects existing heritage while addressing the contemporary challenges of inclusive design.

project team: ETB with Landstudio 015 (landscape)
partner in charge: Alessandro Tessari
project: Centre for visually impaired children. Ljubljana, Slovenia
status: International restricted competition. Short list
date: 02.2025
client: Slovenian Ministry of Education