Lviv’s Radio Garage offers an experimental space for temporary exhibitions with a focus on radio, sound art, VR-art, and interactive media
Roman Shyshak

Lviv’s Radio Garage offers an experimental space for temporary exhibitions with a focus on radio, sound art, VR-art, and interactive media

25 giu 2022  •  Notizie  •  By Allie Shiell

In Lviv, Radio Garage is a media art centre and an experimental gallery for temporary exhibitions with a focus on radio, sound art, VR-art, and interactive media. The project by O.M. Shumelda is located within the previously existing Lviv Radio Building. 

Roman Shyshak

Constructed in 1912-1913, the building is an outstanding example of early modernist architecture with Art Nouveau and Neo-Gothic details. The building has served many functions over its lifetime, including years as a Polish bank and of course the home of Lviv Radio. 

Roman Shyshak

Unfortunately, numerous original architectural elements were destroyed during the Soviet era. As such, it was of high importance for the architect to preserve the remaining elements of the interior. 
The architects were pleased throughout the process to find unique ornaments on the walls and ceilings made of luxpheres, which are glass prisms invented by an American company in the 19th century and often found throughout Europe. 

Roman Shyshak

During the design process, the architects researched the rooms as much as possible. Three bricked-up windows were restored, bringing light into the entrance from the hall to the atrium courtyard, windows in the WC, and in the corridors. Mirrors were also employed to dissolve the design. 

Roman Shyshak

Floors have been restored throughout the project, in particular the basement, which is designed for exhibitions, and microcement in one of the corridors. Further, to add functionality, existing floor-to-floor height was used to create an additional intermediate floor for employees. Metal doorways were designed to separate the spaces of the entrance group and the lecture hall. 

Roman Shyshak

Finally, the entrance gate from Knyazya Romana was restored at the central entrance. It was discovered that there were originally two gates in the space - with access to Knyaz Roman and Nyzhankivsky - as the restorers found the remains and restored a new entrance gate with a small terrace.