From Dreams to Strategy: Foundations of the Wind Organ® Project

On Slovenian Cultural Day, 8 February 2025, we laid key foundations for the Wind Organ® project. The event took place at the exhibition hall of Centre for Outdoor Design, Kos Joinery, and Lesarius Museum in Velika Preska, Slovenia. This authentic tourism destination will combine music, sustainability, and the natural environment. It will provide a space for deep personal experiences (selfnes). The project integrates innovations in sound, architecture, and ecological sustainability. It aims to become a recognized symbol of nature-based development in Slovenia. Foundations of the Wind Organ®

The ST3ER kick-off workshop gathered key stakeholders. Participants included project leader Jože Kos, strategic and business partners, tourism experts, mentors, and local representatives. Participants ranged in age from 31 to 82 years. Together, they built the project’s mission and vision. Key strategic pillars were analyzed and defined. The focus was on alignment of sustainability and social impact.

Project ST3ER, led in Slovenia by the Development Centre of the Heart of Slovenia, addresses challenges for SMEs in tourism and their ecosystems. Workshop insights will form the foundation for a comprehensive tourism strategy.
A sustainable model, attracting visitors and benefiting local communities, will be developed by Tadeja Jere Jakulin, PhD, Faculty of Tourism Studies. Janja Viher, expert and interpreter of natural and cultural heritage, will share 35 years of tourism experience and mentorship. ST3ER involves partner countries: Ireland, Portugal, Spain, and Denmark.

Delavnica za razvoj potencialov projekta Vetrne orgle, facilitatorka Margareta Guček Zakušek

Facilitation and Strategic Insights

Margareta Guček Zakošek, MSc, strategist and facilitator, described the process as structured, enabling fast and effective insights. “Interdisciplinarity and open dialogue were key success factors. The open space method highlighted multiple perspectives and clear future directions.” A major insight was the systemic connection with the place, providing the project and local residents with necessary momentum.

Project Deliverables

Innovative destination: Tower using wind and solar energy, creating a unique visitor experience.
Sustainable development: Local forest resources, natural materials, renewable energy, and responsible forest management.
Healing center: Organ sounds will have therapeutic effects, connecting people with nature and enabling wellness programs.
Support for local economy: Community and therapists co-create content and programs.
Nationwide collaboration: Unites municipalities, forest owners, architects, carpenters, farmers, organists, and seniors.

Petra Kos, Director of Kos Joinery and Centre for Outdoor Design, stated: “The workshop was an important step, triggering learning and action. Interdisciplinary openness generated ideas for next project steps. The Wind Organ® Healing Center combines responsible wood use with music and nature, encouraging personal connection and balance.”

The Wind Organ® project opens a new chapter in Slovenian sustainable tourism and innovative environmental solutions. Thank you to everyone co-creating this journey!

Delavnica za razvoj potencialov projekta Vetrne orgle

Workshop Participants: Jože Kos, Breda Kos, Petra Kos, Špela Pavlič Kos, Anže Kos, Margareta Guček Zakušek, MSc (Facilitator), Franc Pohleven, PhD, Boštjan Juvan, Matjaž Resnik, Milorad Domanović, Petra Marinko, Tadeja Jere Jakulin, PhD, Vid Jakulin, PhD, Janja Viler, Mojca Štepic, Jože Prah, Karin Lavin, Robi Lavin, Peter Ogorelec, Tjaž Bauer, Anja Šerc in Franci Rokavec

Photo: Špela Pavlič Kos

Kick-off workshop was supported by the European Union. This project has indirectly received funding from the European Union’s COSME – SMP Programme via an Open Call issued and implemented under the ST3ER project (Grant Agreement No. 101121592).

Photo: Špela Pavlič Kos