Beta - Timișoara Architecture Biennial 5th edition

Breathing Spaces is a long-term project developed by Beta – Timișoara Architecture Biennial (organized by the Romanian Order of Architects - Timiș Territorial Branch) as part of the LINA Architecture Programme. The project spans three years and activates neglected, underused, or contested spaces in the city of Timișoara, aligning with LINA’s objectives to shape more sustainable, inclusive, and accessible environments through architectural practice.

The project has evolved across three phases:

Activation of a neglected space (2022–2023): Ștefania Palace was reintroduced to the public through an exhibition curated by former Future Architecture fellows Unfolding Pavilion (Daniel Tudor Munteanu & Davide Tomasso Ferrando) and a book launch by forty-five degrees (Alkistis Thomidou & Berta Gutiérrez Casaos).

The other story of a central space (2023–2024): In the context of Timișoara being European Capital of Culture, LINA fellows Space Saloon, Filter Café Filtré - Atelier, and Ana Gallego explored and activated Victory Square, the heart of the city, through workshops and temporary installations (LIDO & Rrrrubble).

Activation of a non-space (2024–2025): In its exploratory phase, Dérive and FFRU (Future Foodscapes Research Unit) were invited for presentations, critiques, and a mental mapping workshop of Timișoara’s riverbank, opening up new spatial imaginaries for the 2024 Beta Biennial.

Breathing Spaces, activation of a non-space (2024-2025)

LINA fellows: Dérive, FFRU (Future Foodscapes Research Unit), Space Saloon

For Loading Beta 2024, Dérive and FFRU joined us in a first field test. Dérive led a bike-tour and mapping workshop along the river, ending at the Young Naturalist Resort. The event helped spark new collaborative ideas and familiarize the fellows with local narratives.

In 2024 the 5th edition of Beta took place, curated by Romanian architect Oana Stănescu. Before officially opening the biennial, we usually organize one testing event, called Loading Beta. The goal is to create connections, to explore spaces to be used in the biennial, to make sure partnerships work as planned.

For Loading Beta 2024 we invited LINA Fellows Dérive and FFRU to Timișoara. They both had the chance to do a presentation (Dérive did two, they were also invited to assist a studio critique for the 1st year students at the Faculty of Architecture).

Dérive had to organize a one day workshop in order to create a mental map of a new space, a non space. We went on a bike-tour on the river bank until we got to the Young Naturalist Resort. It was a fantastic way of exploring the city and understanding it through all our senses.

As an extra activity, in 2024 we organized AAVS - Architectural Association Visiting School,

facilitated by Space Saloon. This took place in Vila Mal, a newly recovered space, without

identity, located next to the University Campus, on the riverbank. Through the „softcovers”

summer school we intended to create an identity for that space.

Breathing Spaces fosters a model of architectural practice that is site-sensitive, community-driven, and ecologically attuned. By working with fellows on temporary and long-term interventions, we cultivate spatial care and sustainability—not only environmentally, but also culturally and socially. We bring architecture out of the office and into the streets, onto the grass, and into the hearts of communities.