Renowned British architecture firm Foster + Partners has unveiled its visionary design for the redevelopment of Palas Iași, a landmark mixed-use development located in the heart of Romania’s historic city of Iași. Commissioned by local real estate developer Iulius, this ambitious project is set to breathe new life into one of Eastern Europe’s most culturally significant urban centers. With an estimated investment of €520 million—of which Iulius will contribute approximately €80 million—the masterplan promises to seamlessly blend modernity with tradition, creating a vibrant and sustainable environment that celebrates both the past and future.
Enhancing Urban Connectivity and Cultural Integration
At the core of the proposal lies a bold reimagining of the area surrounding the iconic neo-Gothic Palace of Culture, a cherished symbol of Iași’s rich heritage. The masterplan seeks to enhance urban connectivity by weaving together retail, cultural, and green spaces within a cohesive framework. By prioritizing pedestrian-friendly pathways and public accessibility, the design fosters a more permeable and walkable cityscape, inviting residents and visitors alike to explore and engage with their surroundings.
A key highlight of the project is the emphasis on preserving archaeological remains and integrating historic elements into the landscape. Green areas will not only serve as recreational hubs but also provide outdoor event spaces and children’s play zones, enriching the community’s quality of life. Tree-lined pedestrian routes will connect various parts of the development, while extending the existing parkland to create breathtaking vistas of the Palace of Culture. This thoughtful integration of nature and architecture aims to transform the urban experience, making it more inclusive and enjoyable.
Reimagining the Palas Complex and Public Spaces
The Palas Iași complex itself, home to the popular Palas Mall, will undergo a comprehensive reconfiguration to better align with its surroundings. At the heart of this transformation is a striking indoor-outdoor market plaza designed to bridge the mall’s atrium with the adjacent park. Featuring a floor-to-ceiling glass façade adorned with intricate stone flooring inspired by traditional Romanian motifs, the plaza will become a focal point for social interaction. Above, a sculptural glass lighting feature will add a touch of elegance, while expanded café and seating areas will blur the boundaries between the interior and exterior, offering a seamless visitor experience.
Stefan Behling, Head of Studio at Foster + Partners (Credit: Foster + Partners)
Commenting on the project, Stefan Behling, Head of Studio at Foster + Partners, stated “The masterplan completely revitalises the heart of the city and improves connections to its centre with generous, tree-lined pedestrian walkways. Greenery and incredible new public spaces are woven through the urban realm, transforming the city experience and reframing the spectacular Palace of Culture.
Senior Partner Daniel Zielinski echoed these sentiments, noting “We are preserving historic features within the landscape and incorporating traditional Romanian patterns to celebrate the city of Iași – and ensure the scheme sensitively reflects its context.”
Beyond the immediate vicinity of Palas Iași, additional upgrades include the redesign of a nearby events hall, whose rooftop will be repurposed as a green venue. A continuous architectural “plinth,” inspired by local building traditions, will unify the structures around the perimeter, providing shaded areas for restaurants and cafés. These enhancements underscore the project’s commitment to sustainability and cultural authenticity.
A Legacy of Innovation and Urban Regeneration
The selection process for the architect behind this prestigious project was highly competitive, with firms such as MVRDV, UNStudio, and Zaha Hadid Architects vying for the role. Ultimately, Iulius chose Foster + Partners for its proven expertise in large-scale urban regeneration projects. The firm’s portfolio includes notable undertakings like the redevelopment of Television City in Los Angeles and the ongoing efforts to rebuild Antakya following the devastating 2023 Turkey-Syria earthquakes. In Romania, Foster + Partners is also spearheading plans to revitalize a former industrial zone in Constanța, transforming silos into theatres and pavilions.
Iulius, founded over two decades ago, has established itself as a leader in mixed-use urban regeneration across Romania. Operating in major cities such as Iași, Timișoara, Cluj-Napoca, and Suceava, the company boasts investments exceeding €1.2 billion. Its collaboration with Foster + Partners represents a milestone in its mission to create dynamic, people-centric environments that honor the country’s architectural legacy while embracing innovation.
As construction progresses, the Palas Iași redevelopment stands poised to redefine the city’s skyline and reinforce its status as a cultural and economic powerhouse. By blending cutting-edge design with a deep respect for history and community, this project exemplifies the transformative power of thoughtful urban planning.
Foster + Partners at a Glance
Year founded: 1967 Headquarters: London, UK Employees: 2730 Revenue: £422 million
Iulius at a Glance
Year founded: 1991 Headquarters: Iasi, Romania Employees: 2 Despite the small core team, Iulius Group’s urban developments house tens of thousands of employees. Revenue: RON 45,676,043 (€9.23 million) as of 2023
