PUBLIC COMPETITION ANNOUNCED: SOKOLAC TO GET A MODERN CULTURAL CENTER

A modern cultural center is set to be built on the site of the former Hotel Romanija, in the heart of Sokolac. The project is expected to become a new urban and cultural landmark of the town.

PHOTO: Sokolac

The planned facility will cover a net floor area of up to 3,200 m², situated on a 4,048 m² plot with direct access from Cara Lazara Street and full infrastructural readiness.

This is outlined in the design brief of the architectural competition recently announced by the Municipality of Sokolac. The competition is open to all legal and natural persons registered to perform architectural design services. The deadline for submission of entries is June 6, 2025.

The winner of the competition will gain the right to participate in the second phase — a negotiated procedure without prior publication — which includes further development of the conceptual design to the level of a main project, as well as the preparation of technical documentation for relocating existing underground installations.

According to the official documentation, the Cultural Center is envisioned as a multifunctional facility intended to host a variety of cultural events, including theatrical performances, film screenings, exhibitions, conferences, workshops, and traditional folk shows.

The central feature of the ground floor will be a multifunctional hall with a seating capacity of around 220, complete with a stage, backstage preparation areas, dressing rooms, restrooms, an information desk, gallery space, and a café bar. These elements will be unified by a spacious and representative entrance hall.

The first floor is designated for administrative offices of the Cultural Center and the Tourism Center, a small library with a reading room, and additional support spaces for performers and users of the main hall. The second floor will feature conference rooms — a large one for up to 150 people and a smaller one for 15 — along with a café-restaurant with a terrace for up to 100 guests and a separate entrance. This level will also house offices for the Institute of History.

The basement will be allocated for technical rooms, storage, and other auxiliary facilities essential for the smooth operation of the center.

As noted in the competition documents, the Cultural Center will contribute to shaping a modern identity for Sokolac through its design, function, and spatial concept. It is set to become an attractive destination for locals, visitors, and tourists alike, while also playing a key role in fostering local development. Beyond its cultural importance, the center carries significant social value, offering new employment opportunities — particularly for young people — and encouraging community engagement in creative and educational initiatives.

The project will incorporate modern and high-quality building materials, in line with the facility's intended use and current architectural standards, while respecting the surrounding environment.

The area around the building will also be upgraded, with plans for paved plazas and open spaces suitable for public events, reports eKapija.