The Educational and Cultural Center of the Organization of Jews in Bulgaria “Shalom” is a joint project of Sofia Municipality, Vazrazhdane District, and the Organization of Jews in Bulgaria “Shalom.” Located in the historic Yuchbunar district, once Sofia’s largest Jewish neighborhood, the complex brings together educational, cultural, sports, and community functions.
The project is closely connected to the history of the site and the commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the rescue of Bulgarian Jews. Its purpose is to create a contemporary environment for education, culture, creativity, and social interaction for different age groups and the local community.
As part of the architectural design, the complex is organized into three separate but functionally connected buildings: a school, a nursery and kindergarten, and a cultural center with a large library. Each building is designed according to its specific function and the age of its primary users. The building for younger children is distinguished by colorful window frames that give it an individual identity within the overall architectural composition.
The complex also includes a large sports center intended for use by both children and students and residents of the surrounding neighborhood. This expands the educational program with facilities for sports and community activities.
The facades are defined by clear geometric lines and a consistent material and color palette. White and dark gray surfaces are combined with terracotta tones and brick elements that appear throughout the different buildings and establish a visual connection between them. The use of brick references Jewish building traditions and creates a contextual relationship with the architecture of the Sofia Synagogue.
As a project within the educational buildings portfolio, the center treats outdoor spaces as an extension of the learning environment. The courtyard includes landscaped areas for play, sports, recreation, and shared activities designed for different age groups. A field for team sports is also incorporated into the site.
The roof areas are developed as landscaped gardens with spaces for rest and social interaction. This approach extends the greenery beyond the courtyard and integrates planted areas across different levels of the complex.
Security requirements are also incorporated into the architectural and landscape design. The perimeter fence is positioned behind a green belt of shrubs, allowing the necessary protective elements to be visually integrated into the surrounding environment.
The Shalom Educational and Cultural Center forms part of the IPA - Architecture and more portfolio of public buildings and brings multiple functions together within a clearly organized spatial structure, with strong connections between indoor and outdoor spaces.
