Re-Fra-C-T

Refract: Reframe - Continuity in Time presents a design philosophy by Boris Chipan that reinterprets historical elements of architecture and urban design to create a refracted design that reflects both the past and present in new ways. This approach focuses on breaking the continuity of time by reframing old design elements and integrating them with modern additions, allowing them to be expressed within their temporal and spatial context. The concept involves reaching a “refracted design” that represents the spatial, temporal, and sensory breaks in continuity.

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The design philosophy progresses through three key stages, addressing the preservation of historical elements in Ohrid’s urban fabric. The first stage focuses on preserving the original urban and architectural frames found in Ohrid’s history. The second stage involves a partial intervention, maintaining certain design elements while introducing modern modifications. In the third stage, elements that can no longer function are left in place or minimally altered to offer users visual or tactile experiences. This design approach enables historical building features to remain relevant within a contemporary context while fostering the continuity of spatial memory.

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In terms of spatial integration, the refracted design evolves through sectional, planar, and site-specific adaptations. By blending old and new design elements, the refracted approach promotes a sense of continuity that bridges historical references with modern spatial interventions. The ultimate aim is to ensure that today’s design elements persist into the future while maintaining relevance in their historical context. This design concept offers multiple experiences and vistas to users, creating a cohesive cognitive experience despite the diversity of moments and sensations encountered.

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Specific Aspects of the Design
The design emphasizes three distinct levels of preservation and experience, applied specifically to Ohrid’s urban context. The existing buildings are preserved in varying degrees. One building is fully conserved, while another, unable to be sustained, retains only its structural elements, becoming part of a new design framework. These levels are:

1. Full Preservation: Complete preservation and repurposing of a building’s structure, ensuring its continued existence in its entirety.

2. Partial Preservation: Maintaining the core structure (such as foundations or walls) while modifying other parts to adapt to contemporary uses.

3. Minimal Intervention: Allowing non-functional elements to remain in their original place with minimal changes, allowing users to experience these elements through touch and sight.

 

In terms of the user experience, the design philosophy aims to foster sensory and cognitive engagement. By breaking formal, sectional, and sensory continuities, the design offers users new perceptions and views, creating different sensory fractures. As visitors move through the spaces, they experience these shifts through vistas and visual cues, which present different layers of past and present.

Sustainability and Modern Integration

The refracted design approach also emphasizes sustainable design strategies. The continuity of Ohrid’s historical architecture is represented through the use of local materials like stone and wood, which can be modernized for contemporary use. Additionally, the coastal walkway plays a crucial role in maintaining the connection between the city’s urban fabric and the natural landscape of the lake.

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Sustainable building techniques are key, including energy-efficient systems and environmentally friendly materials. Features like natural ventilation, the use of local materials, and solar energy reflect a commitment to reducing the environmental impact of the project. Green roofs, passive design strategies, and water management systems also contribute to the sustainability of the design. This approach bridges the past and future by preserving historical traces while addressing modern needs.

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In summary, the design of the project embodies a balance between heritage preservation, functional modernity, and sustainability. The philosophy behind "Refract: Reframe" proposes a thoughtful integration of historical continuity and contemporary design to create lasting and meaningful spaces that honor the past while looking toward the future.