Following the decision of the Municipality of Burgas, the competition deadline has been extended by 12 days.
Please see the updated schedule in “THE COMPETITION” section.
Queries can be raised regarding the Competition by anyone interested in applying, in writing, to require clarification.
Questions can be sent until January 09th 2026 (up to 10 days prior to the deadline for submission) by email parkzone3burgas@competition.bg
Question 96 Additional Materials
Are additional visual materials allowed in addition to the main boards — such as video presentations, 3D animations, interactive visualizations (links to online content), as well as other multimedia files that support a more comprehensive presentation of the design concept? If yes, what is the recommended form and method of submission of such materials (for example via a separate link, attached file, QR code on the board, or otherwise)? Are there any restrictions on the format of the materials?
Additional materials must be in PDF format and uploaded in the field for ADDITIONAL MATERIALS when submitting the project. QR codes on the boards are not permitted.
Question 95 Access to the Competition Area
Are there specific points from which access to the competition area must be provided?
The Technical Brief does not define specific points from which access to the competition area must be provided. Their location is at the discretion of the competition participant.
Question 94 Development
Is “underground” development below ground level permitted (Troikata Square ~ +10.60)? The Technical Brief states: “Underground development is permitted within the boundaries of the competition area… Above-ground development must comply with the specified minimum setbacks from the property boundaries.” According to my understanding, this text allows the possibility that this zone (below levels +10.60–12.75) may be considered as (semi-)underground. I believe that Question 55 confirms this interpretation.
Should this “underground zone” be counted as underground or above-ground when calculating the built-up area? According to Question 68, it should be counted as above-ground, correct?
Development should be considered underground in the part located below the level of Troikata Square when it is situated below the terrain level of the competition area. However, if the entire terrain level of the competition area is lowered and is at a lower elevation than the elevation of Troikata Square, the development should be considered above-ground.
Development is considered underground or above-ground not according to the elevation at which it is located, but according to the specific design proposal.
Question 93 ESPD
How should we complete the ESPD outside CAIS? The PDF file cannot be edited.
If you are unable to edit the PDF, you should print it, complete it manually, scan it, and then upload the scanned PDF to the platform.
Question 92 Budget
Is the budget expected to include the amount required for landscaping and enhancement of the park space in accordance with the project proposals, or does it cover only construction activities?
The budget should include the implementation of the project. Landscaping is part of the competition project and therefore must also be included.
Question 91 Graphic Scale
Is the use of a graphic scale permissible?
According to the Competition Rules, the use of a graphic scale is not prohibited.
Question 90 Stages
Are there any restrictions on the height and design of outdoor stages?
According to the Technical Brief, no restrictions are imposed on the height and design of the stages, other than the specified volumetric limitations of development within the competition area.
Question 89 Offices
Is it permissible to reduce the number of the planned 15 offices in order to achieve higher quality in the architectural solution of the competition proposal?
The described functions and areas are approximate and indicative. Participants may modify the areas and/or propose and replace functions if this is in favor of the competition proposal.
Question 88 Halls
Is it permissible to combine the two small halls in the Administrative Services Zone into one larger hall?
It is recommended that the two halls not be combined into a single space, so as not to eliminate the possibility of two events taking place simultaneously in the two halls. However, participants may propose and replace functions if this is beneficial to the competition proposal and is sufficiently well justified.
Question 87 Landscaping
Are green roofs and soil-based pavements considered part of the landscaping/greenery required by the project?
Green roofs and terraces are included in the area designated for landscaping/greenery. The brief allows landscaping to be located both on the ground and on building volumes in the form of roof gardens, green terraces, and vertical greenery. Therefore, green roofs are considered part of the required project landscaping. The same applies to soil-based pavements or grass joints, provided that they represent genuinely landscaped areas. The only strict quantitative requirement is that a minimum of 1,800 m² must be occupied by tree vegetation — a parameter that can be fulfilled either on the ground or on roof spaces, provided that the structure allows for tree planting.
Question 86 Scale
The Competition Rules state that the plans must be presented at a scale of 1:200. Is it possible to present them at a different scale — 1:100?
The scales specified in the Competition Rules are recommended. If a participant considers that the diagrams and drawings of the competition proposal can be illustrated more clearly at a different scale, the use of an alternative scale is permitted, provided that this is well justified and argued, and that all texts are legible.
Question 85 Setback Zones
In the setback zones, is only above-ground construction prohibited, or is underground construction also prohibited?
In the setback zones, above-ground construction is not permitted. Underground construction may be resolved within the boundaries of the competition area.
Question 84 ESPD
Regarding the submission of the ESPD through the website — is it necessary to fill it in electronically using the provided form, print it, sign it, scan it, and attach it in PDF format?
It is not necessary to manually sign the ESPD. It is sufficient to complete it electronically.
Question 83 Silhouettes
Can you provide additional clarification on what is meant by “Silhouettes”?
An architectural silhouette represents the overall outline or contour of a building or a group of buildings as perceived from a distance. It is used to emphasize the uniqueness of a building through simplified graphic representation in architectural diagrams or visualizations.
The term “silhouettes,” as used in the brief, refers to graphic profiles or vertical sections through the competition area that define the permissible volumetric and spatial parameters of development. These silhouettes illustrate how the proposed volumes should fit into the surrounding urban environment. Silhouettes serve as a tool for controlling scale, proportions, and the visual impact of future buildings and spaces.
Question 82 Characteristic Image
Should the characteristic image that we are required to create have any kind of title on it — for example, text in a corner to identify it? Or should it simply be the image itself?
The image must not contain any identifying symbols or text. This file will be used on the competition’s website. Its purpose is to distinguish the project.
Question 81 Future Development on the Southern Property Adjacent to the Competition Site
How will the undeveloped area of the private property south of the competition area be arranged, and more specifically at the point of contact with the competition area?
Participants in the competition should treat the southern boundary as a fixed regulatory line, without making assumptions about future interventions in the neighboring private property. The design of the southern contact zone must be resolved entirely from the perspective of the competition area — so that the space is functionally complete, visually organized, and independent of any potential future changes to the private property. The project should ensure an aesthetically and spatially appropriate southern frontage that can adapt to various future scenarios, but it is not necessary to anticipate a specific integration, as such is not defined in the brief.
Question 80 ESPD
Does each member of the consortium have to submit a separate ESPD?
In the case of a consortium, each of its participants must complete an ESPD in which they indicate with whom they are participating in the consortium, as well as the name of the consortium itself. A separate ESPD must also be completed on behalf of the consortium.
Question 79 Boards
Is it possible to merge the first two boards into one, so that two site plans are not presented?
It is recommended that they be presented on two separate boards, since the first is for SITE ANALYSIS, which represents an analysis of the existing situation, the identification and specification of the problems identified by the participant, while the second board is for SITE DEVELOPMENT PROPOSAL, which presents the concept for the organization of the site by the specific participant.
Question 78 Boards
Will it be acceptable for fragments and details to be integrated into the first boards, or must they be separated into the last board?
The materials listed for each board represent general guidelines and are not required to be arranged exactly in that manner. It is permissible for fragments and details to be presented integrated into the other boards.
Question 77 Winners
Will the winners be notified after the competition is completed? How will they be contacted? Will participants be informed in any way during the jury process while the jury is deciding who wins?
After the jury process is completed, the results of the competition will be announced, and the Contracting Authorities will contact the winners using the contact details provided by the participants during registration and document submission — telephone number and email. During the jury process, participants are not informed about the scoring or the discussions held. All evaluation tables and comments are provided to the participants after the completion of the jury process.
Question 76 Vehicle Access
Is access for vehicles and cars to the site possible only from the eastern side of the competition area? If not, from which direction and from which street can we define the entrance to the parking area?
The competition area borders “Troikata” Square to the west, the family house of the Hadzhipetrovi family to the north, a private property where the construction of a mixed-use building is planned to the south, and a street to the east.
The brief does not impose a restriction that vehicular access to the competition area must be provided exclusively from the eastern side.
Question 75 Boards
Is there a mandatory minimum number of boards?
No, there is no mandatory minimum number of boards that must be submitted. The number depends entirely on the participant’s design proposal and their vision of how, in what way, and in how many boards they wish to present their idea. The only limitation is that this number must not exceed 6 boards.
Question 74 Future Development on the Southern Property Adjacent to the Competition Site
To what extent can the investment project for the residential building to the south be considered final? Is it permissible to modify it or prepare an alternative proposal integrated into the overall concept for the park? How would such a solution be evaluated, considering that it would diverge from the requirements set in the competition brief?
The designed building on the property south of the competition territory is a mixed-use private building, and an investment project has already been approved for it at the request of the property owner. Therefore, it is not part of the competition territory and is not subject to development. Under the applicable legislation, changes to the project are permitted only at the request of the contracting authority — the property owner or the person who has been granted building rights on the property.
Question 73 The Hole
Could you provide additional information regarding the structural slab of the “The Hole” site? The documentation recommends the use of the existing retaining walls, but also indicates that construction below the current bottom level of “The Hole” is possible. What is the thickness of the foundation slab, and is there any structural compromise? Furthermore, are there any available data on the soil conditions beneath the site?
The condition of the foundation slab has not been examined, and no geological surveys have been conducted. Both can be inspected if needed by the project that wins the competition.
Question 72 Underground Parking
Are there any restrictions regarding the location of the entrance to the underground parking? Is it allowed for this entrance to be located on one of the adjacent streets for vehicular traffic or on “Baba Ganka” Square?
Access for vehicles to the underground parking is provided through ramps. The number, entrances, and exits are at the discretion of the designer.
Question 71 Documents
Is it permissible for the documents to be signed electronically, or are original (handwritten) signatures required upon submission?
Pursuant to Art. 67, para. 4 of the Public Procurement Act (PPA) in connection with § 29, item 5, letter ‘a’ of the Transitional and Final Provisions of the PPA, effective as of 1 April 2018, the European Single Procurement Document (ESPD) must be submitted electronically. All other documents may be signed by hand.
Question 70 Consortium
The consortium does not need to be a legal entity, but if it is in the form of a civil partnership, is it necessary to register in the BULSTAT register?
A consortium in the form of a Civil Partnership is not required to be registered in the BULSTAT Register at the time of participating in the competition. Pursuant to Art. 70 of the Rules for the Implementation of the Public Procurement Act, the public procurement contract is concluded after the contractor submits to the contracting authority a certified copy of a tax registration certificate and BULSTAT registration, or equivalent documents under the legislation of the country in which the consortium is established.
In view of the above, registration in the BULSTAT Register is required only if the competition project is ranked among the top three and, according to the competition rules, the consortium must receive an award and subsequently be commissioned to prepare the investment project.
Question 69 Documents
Can the person authorized to represent the consortium sign all required documents with an electronic signature?
It is entirely possible for all documents to be signed with an electronic signature. It fully replaces a handwritten signature.
Question 68 Building Volume
If the design proposal includes a main “sunken public space” at a lower level (for example at elevation +7.50 m), which is physically located below the main adjacent level of “Troikata” Square (around +10.60 m). This lower level at +7.50 m is physically “below ground” (relative to the level of “Troikata” Square). Therefore, should the floor area at this level be counted toward the permitted 4,000 m² of “above-ground” area, or toward the permitted 16,200 m² of “underground” area (due to the fact that it is physically located below the neighboring terrain)?
In this particular case, this level should be counted as above-ground development.
Question 67 Natural Person
Is it possible for a natural person (without a legal entity/company) to submit the ESPD and participate in the competition? If I am selected as one of the winners, will I be able to assign work to a subcontractor or partner with another company?
All participants must complete and submit the ESPD, regardless of whether they are a natural or legal person.
According to the condition stated on page 8 of the Competition Rules: “Participants invited by the Contracting Authorities to negotiate a design contract (those ranked first, second, or third in the competition) must have at least one team member capable of certifying full design qualifications. This requirement ensures that the authors of the winning project will have the technical and legal capacity to prepare the next design stage—namely, the technical and working investment project—to prepare project documentation, sign and seal it, submit it for approval by the competent Bulgarian authorities, and thereby obtain a building permit.”
Pursuant to Art. 66, paras. 1 and 2 of the Public Procurement Act (PPA): Candidates and participants shall indicate in their application or offer the subcontractors and the share of the contract they will assign to them, if they intend to use any. In such cases, they must provide evidence of the obligations undertaken by the subcontractors.
The subcontractors must meet the relevant selection criteria according to the type and share of the contract they will perform, and there must be no grounds for their exclusion from the procedure.
Question 66 Educational Block
Can we separate the educational block into a standalone building that does not have a direct connection to the main foyer of the Culture Space?
The described connections between the premises have a recommended, not mandatory, character. Participants may propose a different organization of the spaces if this contributes to the quality of the competition proposal, provided that it is well justified and well reasoned.
Question 65 Open-Air Stages
Is it necessary for the area to be arranged so that only certain persons — such as those who have purchased tickets, made reservations, or are connected to the organizers — can enter or watch? Does the Hadzhipetrovi family house fall within a residential zone for which noise pollution must be considered? Is it possible for the stages to be located within the setback zones from the boundaries of the competition site?
The brief does not require a specific type of access organization for the stages. Therefore, both solutions are acceptable — with free access and with restricted access. In the future operation of the area, both types of events are possible: open to visitors and with controlled access. In this sense, the design solution should allow for either option, including through additional organizational measures.
Noise pollution generated by events on the stages must be aligned with the residential function of all residential buildings in the adjacent territory, including the Hadzhipetrovi family house.
It is possible for the stages to be located in the setback zones, as they are considered elements of the urban environment, not building development.
Question 64 Submission of Projects
Is it mandatory to submit my project through CAIS?
If you have an electronic signature and work with the CAIS system, you may submit your documents and project individually here – https://app.eop.bg/buyer/16058. CAIS is the official centralized information system for public procurement in Bulgaria. In case you cannot register and submit proposals and projects in CAIS yourself, you may submit them through a specially developed participation platform at:
https://competition.bg/parkzone3burgas/
In this case, the participant signs a power of attorney, agreeing to be represented by an authorized representative for the submission of the documentation and competition projects for participation in the competition, who will carry out all necessary actions in accordance with Bulgarian legislation. The authorized representative is responsible solely for delivering the competition materials and submitting them to the Centralized Automated Information System “Electronic Public Procurement” (CAIS EPP) in the form in which they were provided by the participant in the competition platform. It is also possible to submit the documents through an authorized representative chosen by any participant who possesses an electronic signature and registration in the CAIS system.
According to the condition stated on p.11 of the Competition Rules:
” 2.4.2. The competition proposals and all other materials under Section II, item 2.3 may be submitted in one of the following ways:
– Digitally: via the Centralized Automated Information System for Electronic Public Procurement, as described under item 2.4.1;
– Conventionally: on paper, submitted personally or by postal or courier service with registered mail and return receipt, to the Registry of the Municipality of Burgas.
Municipality of Burgas
26 Aleksandrovska Street
8000 Burgas, Bulgaria
TELEPHONE: +359 895 64 32 05
EMAIL: obshtina@burgas.bg
In case of submission on paper, the competition materials shall be delivered in accordance with Art. 89, para. 3 of the Implementing Regulation of the Public Procurement Act, in a sealed, non-transparent package. The following information must be indicated on the package: Name of the participant; Correspondence address, telephone, and email address; Name of the Competition.
The package containing the competition materials shall be marked with a number, date, and time of receipt, for which the deliverer shall be issued a receipt.
All submitted competition materials, excluding samples, models, or other physical materials (if the participant has chosen to provide such), must also be submitted as files on a digital medium (USB flash drive, disc, or other) enclosed within the main package. The size of the files must comply with the requirements set out in Section II, item 2.3.
Competition materials submitted in unsealed or damaged packages, or after the deadline for receipt, shall not be accepted. Transport costs shall be borne by the participants. Participants must ensure that their competition materials arrive at the address of the Contracting Authorities before the deadline for submission. The risk of delay or loss of the proposal rests with the participant. The Contracting Authorities are not obliged to assist in ensuring the arrival of the proposal at the specified address and within the specified deadline.
2.4.3. Each participant may also submit all competition documents and proposals via the competition website, using a specially developed participation platform:
https://competition.bg/parkzone3burgas/
The participant shall create a profile in the platform by completing the following steps: Registration in the platform; confirmation of registration at the e-mail address provided by the participant; completion of registration by downloading, filling in, and uploading the participation documents: application, ESPD, and power of attorney, as provided in the Documentation section – deadline: 02 January 2026.
The participant must submit all competition materials no later than 23:59 (EET/GMT+2)
on 07 January 2026.
Question 63 Underground Parking
Under suitable conditions, would it be possible to provide a shared transport access route to the underground parking areas of both properties (the competition site and the private property located to the south)? Is it permissible for the project to include common ramps that would serve both underground parking facilities, with the aim of minimizing fragmentation of the pedestrian spaces above ground?
The building on the southern side of the competition territory is not part of the competition area and is not subject to development. No changes to its project are allowed, nor is the preparation of an alternative proposal. It has a different contracting authority.
Question 62 Administrative Services Zone
Is the ‘Library’ room intended to be accessible to everyone, or only for users of the Administrative Services Zone?
The room is intended to function as a library of information resources accessible to all visitors.
Question 61 Administrative Services Zone
What is the difference between the Administrative Services Zone and the “Management” zone in the Culture Space?
The “Management” zone within the Culture Space is intended for the management of the cultural program, while the Administrative Services Zone represents an independent function.
Question 60 Administrative Services Zone
The rooms listed in the functional program for the Administrative Services Zone — large hall, small halls, meeting rooms, offices, shared workspaces — will they be for rent, or will they be used by the organization managing the building and its activities?
Both options are possible, depending on the Clients’ subsequent decision.
Question 59 Retaining Wall
Does the retaining wall have sufficient structural stability to be preserved and used in the proposal, or will it be removed?
The retaining wall may be freely addressed according to the design solution. The project may choose to take it into account or remove it. Its structural stability has not been assessed, but considering the period when the demolished building on the site was constructed, these walls were not subject to seismic checks. Therefore, the recommended approach is to use them only as supporting elements for the excavation during construction, to the extent that the final design allows.
Question 58 Areas
The total areas in the program are provided as totals for each main functional group, but no percentage values for circulation, wall thicknesses, or other elements not included in the program areas are specified. If these values represent usable floor area, what are the guidelines for calculating the total gross floor area?
The listed areas and the projected gross floor area are indicative only. The given values include usable (clear) floor areas. The percentage values for circulation spaces and walls are determined by the specific design solution.
Question 57 Underground Parking
Are all 200 parking spaces intended for passenger cars? Is it correct to assume that no space will be needed for unloading or parking large vehicles?
According to the Technical Brief, an underground parking garage with no more than 200 parking spaces must be built. These spaces are intended for passenger cars. It is also specified that the underground level contains storage rooms and that access must be provided for small cargo trucks (meaning light-duty vehicles such as vans). Therefore, it is advisable to provide parking space for these vehicles as well as an unloading zone.
Question 56 Hadzhipetrovi Family House
The property of the Hadzhipetrovi family house, which is a cultural heritage asset, is marked as “private property.” If Park Zone 3 is developed, can the property of the house be integrated with the competition area and turned into a public facility?
The property containing the Hadzhipetrovi family house is private and is not an area where intervention is permitted according to the competition brief. However, it is relevant due to the building’s status as an immovable cultural asset.
Question 55 Setbacks
Within the setback zones from the boundaries of the competition area, are the following structures permitted: semi-underground rooms, underground rooms, open-air stages, underground parking, and vehicle ramps?
Yes, as long as the distance requirements corresponding to their height are met and they do not contradict other rules and regulatory requirements.
Question 54 Functions
Is it permissible to place the waiting areas and halls on different levels — the waiting areas at the main foyer level and the halls at another level?
The placement of the rooms on different levels depends entirely on the design solution.
Question 53 Functions
In the Administration zone, offices for a director and a secretary are provided. It is assumed that these are not intended for rent. Therefore, is it possible to integrate them into the restricted-access zone instead of the mixed-access zone, where the rooms are intended to be rentable? For comparison — in the Culture zone, offices for a director and a secretary are also provided, and they are located in a restricted-access zone.
The described connections between the rooms are advisory rather than mandatory. Participants may propose a different arrangement and sequence of the rooms if this contributes to the quality of the competition proposal, provided that it is well justified and argued, taking into account the access needs of different users and the different time ranges of operation (different working hours).
Question 52 Budget
Should the budget include only the construction and installations for creating the space for contemporary art and culture — Park Zone 3 — or should it also include the furnishing?
The budget should cover the implementation of the construction of the project. Furnishing of the premises is not included in the budget.
Question 51 Building Restrictions
What is the reasoning behind the 20-meter setback from the northern property boundary (Hadzhipetrovi House)? On the basis of which regulatory documents were the building height limits of 5 meters toward “Troikata” Square and 20 meters toward “Slavyanska” Street determined?
The limiting building lines, as well as the restrictions in the volumetric–spatial solution, were established at the request of the Clients.
Question 50 Budget
Is it acceptable to indicate only the total estimated budget, without providing a detailed cost breakdown?
The budget is indicative and will be further refined in the next design phase.
Participants are required to include an estimated budget for the implementation of the project. A detailed cost breakdown is not mandatory. The stated budget amount should be accompanied by justification and a description of the methodology used for its estimation. The evaluation must be realistic, as this aspect will be taken into account by the jury.
Question 49 Elevation of the Demolished Building on the Site of “The Hole”
What was the excavation elevation and the basement elevation of the demolished building on the site of “The Hole”? Does the wall extend down to ±0.00, or does it end at the level of “The Hole” (+5.00)?
The excavation depth is shown in the provided site sections with the initial data. The excavation has three surviving retaining walls — on the east, west, and north sides. Their height extends from the level of the adjacent terrain down to the bottom of the excavation. On the south side, the terrain slopes, and the embankment extends into the private property.
Question 48 Absolute Elevations
To which absolute elevation does the maximum height of 20 m, specified in the competition brief, correspond? To which elevation does the 5 m height limit on the side of Troikata Square correspond?
There is no fixed absolute elevation. The heights indicated in the brief are a vertical projection from the averaged ground level along the two main fronts. It should be noted that when determining the heights up to these limits, the required distances to adjacent buildings — including across the street — specified in the technical brief must be observed.
Question 47 Contract with the Winner
In the event that a participant from outside the European Union is selected as the winner, is it possible for a contract to be concluded with a foreign natural or legal person, or will a local (based in Bulgaria or the EU) representative be required?
Participation and submission of a project in the competition do not require holding a professional qualification or having a partner from Bulgaria. There are no restrictions regarding the nationality of participants.
According to the condition stated on page 8 of the Competition Rules: “Participants invited by the Contracting Authorities to negotiate a design contract (those ranked first, second, or third in the competition) must have at least one team member capable of certifying full design qualifications. This requirement ensures that the authors of the winning project will have the technical and legal capacity to prepare the next design stage—namely, the technical and working investment project—to prepare project documentation, sign and seal it, submit it for approval by the competent Bulgarian authorities, and thereby obtain a building permit.”
Question 46 Foyer
Why is it necessary to separate the administrative services as an independent function? What prevents the library, conference hall, main hall, etc. from being served by a common foyer?
The reason for separating the administrative services from the cultural ones is that there is a possibility for different working hours for “administration” and “culture”. By separating access through different lobbies, access control would be facilitated.
Question 45 Foyers
In the technical brief, there are two separate service foyers — one in the Cultural Space and one in the Administrative Services Zone. Can it be assumed that a single shared administrative area may be designed for all building volumes? Can the Large and Small Halls from the Administrative Services Zone have access from the main foyer of the Cultural Space?
It is not recommended to mix the functions and zones of the Cultural Space and the Administrative Services Zone. The two areas are developed as separate programs with different functional layouts, as they are intended to operate independently and fulfill distinct purposes.
Question 44 Culture and Administrative Services
Do the Cultural Space and the Administrative Services Zone have a functional connection?
The two main functions are located within the same property and may have a functional relationship to the extent that part of the Administrative Services Zone could, under certain circumstances, serve the Cultural Space. However, no physical connection between the premises of the two zones is foreseen.
Question 43 Functions of the Halls
What are the more specific functions of the large and small halls, as well as of the other premises within the administrative services area?
No more specific functions have been defined. The spaces for administrative services aim to improve the services offered by the municipality and to provide flexibility for other needs. The halls will host various functions related to the municipality’s administrative services and the organization of events.
Question 42 Ceiling Heights in the Premises
Is there a minimum requirement for clear height, especially for large event halls and spacious rooms in the mixed administrative area?
The brief specifies requirements for the premises where a minimum clear height has been defined. For the remaining spaces, no such requirement has been set, and participants are therefore expected to determine for themselves what dimensions would be most appropriate for each room, depending on its function, without violating other rules and regulations.
Question 41 Connection with the Monument to the Victims of the Communist Regime
Is the area around the monument enclosed — by a fence or a wall? Would it be possible to propose a connection between the planned park and the park surrounding the monument?
At the present moment, the area is fenced in order to restrict access “The Hole” and ensure public safety. A possible connection between the two zones is the result of the design solution.
Question 40 Connection with the Monument to the Victims of the Communist Regime
There is a door in the wall of “The Hole” that appears to lead toward the Monument to the Victims of the Communist Regime — possibly a staircase?
Can we use the existing structure and connect to it, or at least use its location as an exit staircase from the underground levels?
The participants in the competition are free to use all site features in accordance with their design vision. The described entrance is an entrance to a collective protection facility that was located in the demolished building, of which only the excavation remains.
Question 39 Project Name
Is it permissible to give the project a name, or would that be considered an indication to the jury?
There is no restriction regarding the naming of the project. The participant may, at their discretion, assign a name to their project. The participant may, at their own discretion, give a name to their project. Pursuant to Art. 90, para. 1 of the Rules for the Implementation of the Public Procurement Act, before the jury reviews the competition projects, their anonymity is ensured by officials designated by the contracting authority.
Question 38 Change in Functional Program
In the Culture Space, is the connection between the Management Zone and the Artists’ Area mandatory? Is it possible for the Management block not to have a direct link to the Artists’ subzone, but instead to be accessed through the main foyer?
The described connections between rooms are of a recommended, not mandatory, nature. Participants may propose a different arrangement and sequence of spaces if this contributes to the quality of the competition proposal, provided that it is well justified and does not violate other rules or regulations.
Question 37 Open-Air Stage 1
The stage area is 150 sq.m. Does this area include the space for 100 seating places?
Yes, the area includes both the stage space and the seating area.
Question 36 Elevation ±0.00
The territory has a height difference between “Troikata” Square to the west—approximately +10.60, and “Slavyanska” Street to the east—approximately +12.75. Could you please clarify which elevation should be considered as the ground level in order to calculate the gross built-up area above and below ground?
The ground level and its modeling are determined by the design solution and its functional connection with the adjacent areas. The gross floor area is the sum of the built-up areas of all above-ground floors of the primary and auxiliary buildings, including the built-up areas in the attic space, as well as the entire area of balconies, loggias, and terraces. When determining above-ground, underground, and semi-underground construction and their respective areas, as well as the average adjacent terrain, the definitions listed in §5, items 48, 49, 50, and 52 of the Supplementary Provisions of the Spatial Development Act (SDA) must be observed.”
Question 35 Underground Construction
The building restriction lines in the northern part of the property, near the Hadzhipetrov family house, include part of “The Hole.” Do these restrictions apply only to above-ground construction, or also to underground construction? Is it possible to carry out underground development in the area around “The Hole,” within the competition territory?
The building boundaries apply to the above-ground volume of the buildings. Therefore, this area of ‘the Hole’ may be used for underground development.
According to Art. 43 of the Spatial Development Act (SDA), for new buildings, the required garages and parking spaces must be provided within the boundaries of the regulated land plot. As is clear from the text, the regulation refers entirely to new buildings / entirely new investment intentions, which is also the case here. Under para. 2 of the same provision, exceptions may be granted by the authority responsible for issuing the building permit when the required garages and parking spaces cannot be provided within the boundaries of the regulated land plot due to technical or regulatory reasons.”
Question 34 Building restriction lines
What types of constructions are permitted within the setback zones?
Construction of building volumes is not permitted within the setback zones; however, the implementation of landscaping features (such as pathways, park furniture, greenery, and other elements) is allowed.
Question 33 Building restrictions – volume
What imposes the height restriction of 5 meters along the boundary with Troikata Square? Is it possible for elements of the building to exceed the 5-meter limit at the property boundary?
The clients’ requirement is that the height of each new structure shall not exceed 5 meters when viewed from Troikata Square. The construction of new structures that surpass this limit is not permitted in order to preserve the appearance and avoid “closing” the square space, including not “hiding” the immovable cultural heritage building located to the north of the competition site.
Question 32 Scope of the competition
In the Technical Specification (Section 1: Introduction – item 1.2, Section 3: Scope of the competition, Section 4: Design Brief) and in the Competition Rules (item 1.3: Subject of the competition), the boulevard “San Stefano” is indicated as the boundary of the competition area and contact zone. According to the graphical material attached to the brief, the northeastern boundary of the competition area is Baba Ganka Square and Stefan Stambolov Boulevard. Please confirm that a technical error was made in the description of the competition area, namely the inclusion of “San Stefano” Boulevard instead of Stefan Stambolov Boulevard.
There is a technical error in the description of the boundaries of the competition area. The scope of the competition area is defined between Slavyanska Street, Baba Ganka Square, Aleksandrovska Street, Troikata Square, General Gurko Street, and Khan Asparuh Street.
Question 31 Future development in the southern property relative to the competition site
Could you provide more information about the future development of the southern property relative to the competition site?
– Is the building a final proposal or just an indicator of development potential?
– What is the function of the building? Specifically, what is the function of the ground floor?
– What are the proposals for the facade and facade materials?
– Does the building have underground parking?
– Where are the entrances to the building, the service entrances, and the parking entrance?
– Is it allowed, and to what extent, within the competition proposal to include recommendations, prescriptions, or justified objections regarding the type, height, or volumetric-spatial solution of the planned building?
The building on the southern side of the competition site is private property and has an approved investment project at the request of the owner. The building has a mixed-use function, with public service facilities on the lower levels, and residences on the upper floors. According to the project documentation, the building has a hull-like form, with a facade featuring white horizontal stripes and glass parapets. The first two levels are entirely covered with a suspended glass facade, reaching up to four floors in the southwest direction. The facade stripes are made of smooth polished plaster, and the building’s color scheme is in light shades of beige. The building includes a three-level underground garage. The mixed-use building is mainly transportation-accessible from the oval part of Baba Ganka Square.
The building located to the south is a private investment and is not part of the competition area.
Question 30 Administrative services zone
Is the exact purpose of this zone known? Is it intended for municipal, government, or other public administration services, or will it be used by tenants with unspecified activities at this stage?
The administrative services zone is intended for public and administrative service functions. During future exploitation, it may include a combination of functions related to managing the newly created spaces and providing services to citizens from municipal and government administrations.
Question 29 Natural lighting
Is it possible for the Chamber Hall and Exhibition Hall to be entirely located underground, without access to natural light?
One of the conditions in the Technical Brief for both halls is that they can be fully blackout, so they can be designed without access to natural light.
The described functions and spaces can be situated above or below ground level, or be partially or entirely embedded. The chosen solution must be well-argued and justified.
Question 28 Subsoil waters
Are there underground waters?
There are no data indicating the presence of underground waters within the competition site.
Question 27 Deviations from the brief
Will motivated proposals for deviations from the brief be considered? Will they lead to a lower score based on the relevant criteria, or will they be viewed positively as innovative solutions?
The competition projects will be reviewed and evaluated by a nine-member international jury. Whether suggested deviations will be considered positive or negative depends entirely on the jury’s assessment.
It is extremely important that all proposals deviating from the brief are well justified and supported by arguments, studies, and facts. If there is convincing evidence that a particular proposal is the better solution to a specific problem, it will be supported regardless of whether it fully complies with the requirements of the brief.
However, if the argumentation is not convincingly presented and defended, the proposal is very likely to receive a lower score.
Question 26 Underground parking
Is it allowed to propose a justified reduction in the number of parking spaces planned for the underground parking in the competition project if our detailed analysis and research convincingly demonstrate that the indicated capacity exceeds the actual need?
The described areas and parking spaces are approximate and indicative. Participants may modify the areas and the number of parking spaces if this benefits the competition proposal and is sufficiently well justified.
Question 25 Underground parking
Will the parking serve only the buildings within the competition site, or will it be accessible to everyone?
The parking is intended to serve all building volumes as well as storage, technical, and maintenance facilities within the competition site. However, since the primary function is public, it will be accessible both to the building occupants and to the residents and visitors of the city.
Question 24 3D Model
Is it possible to provide a 3D model and contours, similar to what is illustrated on page 48 “Building restrictions – volume” of the Technical Brief?
The 3D model and contours shown on page 48 are provided solely for informational purposes and do not claim precision. Therefore, this scheme is included in the brief only to illustrate the environment but is not provided separately to participants, as it cannot serve as a basis for developing the project proposal.
However, sufficient other materials are provided from which participants can gather the necessary information about the environment. The DWG base includes the required elevation levels, allowing for the tracking of terrain changes in contact with the competition site. Additionally, there are schemes showing the floor levels of the surrounding buildings. There is also drone footage that clearly depicts the character of the surrounding environment.
Question 23 Elevation levels of underground and above-ground levels
It is recommended that the underground construction be carried out up to a depth of 12 meters. What absolute elevation does this correspond to?
The elevation levels of the competition site in absolute terms are as follows:
– along the western boundary of the competition territory, it is between +10.00 and +11.00.
– along the eastern boundary of the competition territory, it is between +12.00 and +13.00.
– the average terrain elevation in “The Hole” area is approximately +5.00 meters.
The highest point of the adjacent terrain to “The Hole” is +12.75 m. The brief indicates that the underground construction should be carried out to a depth of 12 meters. This is designed to prevent the underground construction from reaching absolute zero (±0.00 m), which corresponds to sea level, below which underground water is expected to be present.
However, it is recommended to fully utilize the existing position of “The Hole” and the completed excavation in order to optimize construction costs for the underground levels.
Question 22 Change of areas
Considering the use of new technologies and methodologies, as well as the trend towards reducing paper use, the area allocated for supporting facilities connected to the educational and administrative zones appears excessive and significantly exceeds what is necessary for these two functions. Is it possible to propose a different area from the one specified?
The described functions and areas are approximate and indicative. Participants may modify the areas and/or propose and replace functions if it benefits the competition proposal and is well justified.
Question 21 Language
Is it necessary for all texts and explanations to be written in both Bulgarian and English?
It is advisable that explanatory texts, as well as labels on the projects and related documents, are provided in both Bulgarian and English. However, this is not mandatory. The official language of the competition is Bulgarian.
Question 20 Participation Fee
Is there a fee for participating in the competition?
There is no participation fee for the competition. Participation is completely free, and anyone can submit a project.
Question 19 Documents
Do I need to fill out all the documents if I am participating individually?
All required documents must be filled out by all participants. This is a mandatory condition for participation in the competition.
The only documents you do not need to fill out if you are participating alone and not as part of a team, are the documents related to the formation of an association.
Question 18 Documentation and Submission of Projects
Do the documents need to be submitted now, or can I submit them when I present my final drawings/design proposals?
If you have chosen to participate through the competition platform, you need to complete the registration by January 2, 2026, by downloading, filling out, and attaching the participation documents.
All competition materials must be submitted by January 7, 2026.
Question 17 Documents for Establishment of an Association
Please clarify the documentation for Establishment of an Association
If the participant is a consortium that is not registered as an independent legal entity, a copy of the document establishing the consortium must be submitted with the application for participation, as well as the following information related to the specific procurement: the rights and obligations of the members of the consortium; the activities that each member will perform; arrangements for joint and several liability when such liability is not provided for under the applicable legislation; and the person authorized to represent the consortium.
Such an agreement must be signed by all members of the team and will regulate their relations, functions, rights and obligations, as well as copyright. The agreement is in free-text form.
Each person participating has the right to submit only one competition project. A person who participates in a consortium or has agreed to act as a subcontractor to another candidate or participant may not submit an individual application for participation or a competition project, nor may they participate independently.
Question 16 Submission of documents and projects
After we send the forms via the website, how will we submit the competition boards?
If you have chosen to participate through the platform on the competition website, the first step is to register on the platform.
Registration will be confirmed via the email address provided by the participant.
Next, you need to complete the registration by downloading, filling out, and attaching the participation documents.
The following step will enable you to submit the competition materials.
Question 15 Personal document
In my country, there is no national personal ID card system. What should I use?
You can use any valid document, such as a passport or another official ID, for the purposes of identity verification.
Question 14 ESPD
Is it necessary for foreign participants to fill out the ESPD?
The ESPD is a document that must be completed by every participant in a public procurement procedure, regardless of their nationality. According to Art. 39, para. 1, item 1 of the Rules for the Implementation of the Public Procurement Act (PPA), the application for participation must obligatorily include a European Single Procurement Document (ESPD) in accordance with the requirements of Art. 67 of the Public Procurement Act and the contracting authority’s conditions. In this regard, the ESPD is a mandatory document through which the participant declares the absence of grounds for exclusion and compliance with the selection criteria for the respective public procurement.
The ESPD must be completed by the team leader, and there is a column in which the names of all team members must be entered. Fill in only the fields that apply to you.
Question 13 Building restriction lines
Is there a minimum permissible setback from the eastern and southern property boundaries?
All requirements and setbacks that need to be considered for your project proposal are depicted on pages 46-49 of the Technical Brief.
To the east, the distance from neighboring buildings must be greater than or equal to H (the highest point of your competition proposal). To the south, the distance from the property boundary must be greater than or equal to one-third of H.
Question 12 Students
Would it be possible for a team of students of architecture to participate?
As students, you are eligible to participate in this competition. But we recommend to participate in the competition as an union.
When you participate in the competition as a collective and do not have a common registered legal entity, it would be better if you settle your relations with a consortium agreement, where you state who represents the union, respectively who is chosen to be the “leading designer”. Such a contract will be signed by all the participants of the team and will stipulate their relations, functions and how the rights and obligations are regulated, as well as the copyrights. In the event that you have such an arrangement, the documents have to be signed only by the one designated as the representative.
The agreement can be free text, but it is necessary to include the details of all participants and clarify key clauses, such as: the rights and obligations of the members of the association; the activities to be performed by each member; agreement on joint liability where such liability is not provided for by applicable legislation; the person authorized to represent the association.
Question 11 “Baba Ganka” Square
Is “Baba Ganka” Square a pedestrian zone?
The intersection at “Baba Ganka” Square is for vehicle traffic, but the areas around it are designated for pedestrians.
Question 10 Multi-storey Parking
Where exactly in relation to the competition zone on “Gurko” Street is the construction of the multi-storey parking lot planned?
The construction of the multi-storey parking lot is planned on “Gurko” Street at the following location with coordinates 42.50036755818944, 27.47604434719138.
Question 9 “Han Asparuh” Street
“Han Asparuh” Street in the section in front of “St. Cyril and Methodius” School is marked as a pedestrian zone in the excerpt from the Urban Development Plan (UDP) in the assignment. However, on the diagrams on pages 22 and 24, the street is not marked as pedestrian. Is there any plan for it to become completely pedestrian in the future, and what should we consider as the starting position in the competition?
Currently, the street is used for access to the central pedestrian street and for street parking. The mixed-use building to the south has primary transportation servicing entirely from the oval part of “Baba Ganka” Square, which provides the opportunity to designate “Han Asparuh” Street, in the section between “Baba Ganka” Square and “Aleko Konstantinov” Street, as a pedestrian zone.
Question 8 Building South of the Competition Area
What is the intended purpose of the building on the plot south of the competition zone?
The building located south of the competition area, according to the presented projects in Burgas Municipality, has a mixed function.
Question 7 Stages
Are there three possible performance stages? One (movable) near the main street, another inside the park (lower than the viewers), and the third located inside the Stage-bar?
Yes, in accordance with the Technical Brief – an integral part of the competition documentation, the project solution should include:
– A location for a stage with theatrical seating arrangement – the stage is positioned lower compared to the seating areas;
– An open public space with the possibility of constructing a temporary stage;
– A stage-bar.
Question 6 Loading
What are the requirements for loading the buildings? Should loading take place on the ground floor, is a freight elevator necessary? Can it be underground in the parking lot?
Storage warehouses should be located underground. There is no specific requirement that loading and unloading activities must happen underground or on the ground floor. However, if loading/unloading occurs at the level of the storage facilities below ground level, this level must have a minimum clear height of 3.00 meters to allow access for small freight trucks.
Question 5 Halls in the Administrative Services Zone
Should the Large and Small halls in the Administrative Services program be “conference” (rows with seats) or “banquet” (series of individual meeting tables)?
The Brief does not specify a particular type of seating. Therefore, any arrangement of seating is acceptable.
Question 4 Administrative Mixed Zone
What types of meetings are held in the Administrative Mixed Zone? Is it a place where citizens can meet with government officials/representatives?
The Administrative Mixed Zone allows shared access for both visitors and employees. In this area, public meetings, consultations, or similar events can take place, as well as individual meetings between citizens and administrative officers related to the administrative and management functions.
Question 3 Sports
Can the program include sports in a broad sense as a means for a better understanding of active mobility, lifestyle, and spaces? Can it also include sports as entertainment, urban sports, related to culture, and so on?
We would like to clarify that the subject of the competition is the selection and implementation of an CONCEPTUAL DESIGN for the construction of a SPACE FOR CONTEMPORARY ART AND CULTURE. The focus of the project proposals should be on creating a PARK environment, a CULTURE space, and an ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES zone.
The specification does not explicitly require the exclusion of sports activities. Including them in the project proposal is entirely at the discretion of the designer.
Question 2 Submission Deadline for Projects
Is it possible to extend the deadline for submitting projects?
The deadline for submitting projects may be extended only if the grounds specified in Art. 100, para. 7, item 2, Art. 100, para. 11 and Art. 100, para. 12 of the Public Procurement Act are present, and such grounds are not in place at this time.
Question 1 Foreigner
If I am from another country and/or I am a student, do I have the right to participate in the competition?
If you are a person from another country and/or you are a student, you have the right to participate in the competition, if you do not fall into one of the points listed below.
– persons subject to the circumstances set out in Art. 5k of Council Regulation (EU) No 2022/576 of 8 April 2022 amending Regulation (EU) No 833/2014 concerning
– persons who are members of the jury, appointed by the Municipality of Burgas, as well as their related parties;
– persons in employment or service relationships with the Municipality of Burgas or with a member of the jury;
– persons who participated in the preparation of the competition program and terms of reference;
– persons convicted by a final judgment of terrorism, human trafficking, discrimination, theft, mismanagement, handling stolen goods, bribery, organized crime, offences against citizens’ labor rights, youth, property, the economy, the financial, tax, or social security system, bribery, participation in an organized criminal group, offences against public health or the environment, or other criminal offences;
– persons who have outstanding obligations to the state for taxes or social security contributions;
– persons for whom unequal treatment in relation to other participants or other circumstances exist;
– persons of Russian nationality (natural persons), or legal entities, organizations, or bodies established in Russia;