Hay maze

Architectural Center Kiparh Project Author: Manja Pavlović. Kiparh Team – Sara Parezanović, Aleksandra Janjić, Kristina Komlenić, Anđela Ivanović, Rastko Šundić, Aleksandar Stamenković, Jana Nikolić, Paola Ignjatović, Sofija Janković. The Architectural Center Kiparh was established in 2018 with the aim of raising awareness about architecture and creating a positive momentum for the further development of architectural practice through the education of the youngest generations. It promotes the understanding of architecture as a significant segment of general culture and a stimulating element for strengthening the sense of belonging and shared identity. We firmly believe that early education helps children develop an awareness of the importance of architecture on a global level, and through long-term efforts, we can contribute to positive changes within the profession, the built environment, and society.

The "Hay Maze" project represents ephemeral architecture that combines sustainability, functionality, and social interaction through an innovative approach. Developed as a maze, gathering place, and exhibition space at the Belgrade Hippodrome, it emphasizes the public function of a space for all ages. Using straw bales as the main building material highlights ecological awareness and integration with nature, serving as a platform for social inclusion and education. The project emphasizes participatory architecture and community involvement, promoting architecture as a means to improve public spaces and communal life. The Hay Maze pavilion is a temporary structure serving as a maze, gathering place, and exhibition space. The varying wall heights accommodate users of all ages, with low walls for sitting or climbing and high walls for the maze function. Integrated into both the urban and natural environment of the Belgrade Hippodrome, it uses ecological materials and color contrast to stand out on the green meadow. The Hay Maze is a modular, temporary structure that leaves no trace after removal. It is spatially aligned with the context of its location, following the longitudinal axis of the site, with entrances and exits extending existing user routes. The choice of materials was crucial, with the idea that the straw would be repurposed on or near the site after dismantling. The straw was donated to a sports association for horse needs, reducing energy for transport and fulfilling the project's ecological component. Users often associate architecture with enclosed buildings of permanent materials. Hay Maze expands this perception, emphasizing feelings, functions, memories, and emotions evoked by the space. The central zone of the maze forms a square, an open space within a semi-enclosed area with straw walls. Openings in the partitions and varying wall heights create a play of light and shadow, adding spatial layers. The texture of the straw enhances visual appeal and sensory experience, with the smell and touch of the straw enriching the users' experience. As an exhibition space, the rough straw walls contrast with the smooth surfaces of paper, naturally highlighting the displayed projects without additional lighting. It is the result of teamwork between children and adults with a common goal of improving and developing the built environment and architecture as a profession, art, and science.