The K67 cult kiosk in Koper was born as a place where 'culture is created by the people and for the people'

In the heart of Koper, a historic town on Slovenia’s Istrian coast, a new cultural space has opened its doors to the public. The Kiosk K67, a distinctive architectural landmark originally built in the 1960s, has been transformed into an open platform for community engagement and creative expression. The structure, located on the Muzejski trg (Museum Square), serves as more than just an iconic building, it is now a dynamic hub where diverse voices from the local community can converge and collaborate. The project, which began its operation on August 1, 2026, at 11:19 AM, was designed by architect and industrial designer Saša J. Mächtig, who recently received the Prešeren Award for Lifetime Achievement. Mächtig’s vision aligns with the concept of urban design as a social tool, emphasizing how street furniture can shape the rhythm of a city and influence daily life. His work reflects a deep understanding of the role architecture plays in fostering community interaction and enhancing the quality of everyday experiences. The Kiosk K67 will remain in place until September 30, 2027, offering a space for dialogue, idea exchange, and the development of new forms of cultural, educational, and media-based activities. The initiative is part of the European project “Urban Doers” under the Driving Urban Transitions program, led by the independent coastal radio station NOR, the company Automatik Delovišče, and the cultural organization C3. According to Boštjan Bugarič, the head editor of NOR, the Kiosk K67 exemplifies “urban acupuncture”, small spatial interventions with significant societal impact. The color of the Kiosk K67 in Koper is notably different from its usual red hue. This change stems from the fact that the structure was purchased from the Computer Museum in Ljubljana, resulting in its current white appearance. Bugarič explained that the choice of color was not a deliberate design decision but rather a consequence of the availability of the object. Despite this deviation, the Kiosk K67 continues to serve as a symbol of how small architectural interventions can become vital spaces for dialogue, creativity, and community connection. The Kiosk K67 aims to create an open public space that encourages participation, inclusivity, and community-driven initiatives. It offers a unique blend of programming that connects literature, architecture, design, visual arts, sound, ecology, media, youth-friendly environments, LGBTQ+ representatives, and community proposals. Unlike traditional performance venues with fixed schedules, the Kiosk K67 functions as an open platform, welcoming spontaneous interactions and collaborative efforts. One of the notable features of the Kiosk K67 is its role in live radio broadcasts. On the day of its opening, the independent coastal radio station NOR will conduct a live broadcast from within the kiosk. In addition to electronic music, visitors will have the opportunity to engage with a presentation of the poetry of Srečko Kosovel, curated in collaboration with the bookstore and publishing house Libris. The radio broadcast will also feature content specifically dedicated to Srečko Kosovel, adding a nostalgic and culturally rich dimension to the experience. Toni Bracanov, director of NOR, noted that while the acoustics of the kiosk differ from a professional recording studio, the atmosphere created by the sounds of passersby and children playing on the square enhances the listening experience. He emphasized that the content of the broadcasts significantly compensates for any technical limitations, creating an immersive environment that draws in both locals and visitors alike. As the Kiosk K67 continues to operate, it stands as a testament to the power of thoughtful design and community involvement in shaping public spaces. Its presence in Koper marks a step toward a more open, vibrant, and inclusive urban environment.