ŠPITÁLKA REVITALIZATION

Category
Placemaking, Planning, Urbanism
Location
Brno, Czechia
Year
2020
Status
Idea
About the project

The aim of the concept is to find a viable new purpose for the western part of the Teplárny site and the adjacent grounds of the former Mosilana textile factory, without compromising the historical value of the location. Our vision is to transform the current Špitálka brownfield into a vibrant, modern urban district that sets new standards for living, working, and leisure. This transformation will serve as a catalyst for the broader revitalization of the Cejl area in Brno. Under the motto “not destruction, but evolution,” the so-called CITY HUB will become a place of connection and sustainable living, grounded in contemporary architectural trends.

Inspired by current living trends, the new district is envisioned as a WORK AND LIVE zone. We propose creating flexible, open multifunctional units that can be used both for living and working. These units will be designed to allow residents to freely combine, reduce, or expand them as needed. The goal is to foster a dynamic and adaptable structure that evolves with the users' changing needs.

The site’s iconic cooling tower, long unused, will remain a landmark — but with a completely new purpose. Its interior will be transformed into an EVENT HUB, a space for presentations and exhibitions by companies and residents based in the CITY HUB. The tower will also serve as a breathtaking lookout point over Brno.

Two existing industrial hall bays will become a CULTURE HUB. Thanks to a simple and open architectural approach, the space will allow for quick adaptation to various cultural uses depending on the specific production or program. The current archive building of the heating plant will be transformed into a COWORK HUB, which will, over time, serve as an incubator and anchor point for the surrounding new workspaces.

Our concept also reimagines the rooftop landscape of this harsh industrial district as a unique public space. The new rooftops will include sports areas, greenery, gardens, and a 400-meter-long skywalk that connects all the buildings and runs through the cooling tower. This elevated path will offer both stunning views and a new way to spend free time. Additionally, rooftop greenery will help reduce the heat load in the area and support climate resilience.