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Tomsk State University of Architecture and Building

Project idea

In this project, we tried to rethink an abandoned industrial building of a free forging workshop into a potential “third place” for recreation, education and human development. In a major renovation project, we tried to maintain the appearance and structure of the building while making changes for new functions as needed. This way, more light appeared in the building due to additional light openings. The first floor ceiling was raised with an amphitheater, the entrance gate was replaced with a glass vestibule, and a reconstructed overhead crane became an additional level for the library. In totality of all functions, the building offers a person a wide variety of means for healthy creative leisure.

Project description

In this project, an abandoned free forging workshop building was selected for reconstruction. Industrial buildings for the most part are distinguished by a large amount of internal space necessary for the technological process. Long-span structures and authentic equipment are included. That is why, having seen such potential in the abandoned industrial fund, we could not help but be inspired and give free rein to our imagination, how in modern realities this building could benefit people and the economy?
Initially, we let light into the building through new window openings, and the middle part of the roof was turned into a large skylight. The utility rooms were given over to bathrooms, and the basement was filled with new functions. The gate to the workshop was replaced by a glass vestibule, and the far part of the room was given over to an amphitheater. At a height of 7 meters in the room there is an overhead crane, used to transport objects around the workshop, however, it also acquired a new life in the form of a mezzanine for the library, located as a white translucent cube above the room. This filling of space allows you to create an interesting viewing experience simply from walking through previously inaccessible viewpoints.
Functionally, the building includes three planning principles. Upon entering, we are greeted by a high open space, which includes a cloakroom, an information desk, a cafeteria, and then a place for free human leisure. The amphitheater that closes the room can serve not only as a place to relax, but also as a lecture hall, if you remove the mobile furniture and unfold the canvas for the projector. It is also a logical transition to the library part located above the utility rooms. The elevated location and multi-level nature of the library can be compared to the process of acquiring knowledge itself. Priority is given to electronic media, but no one denies people the pleasure of leafing through printed publications. In the basement below the amphitheater there is a sports hall illuminated by street light, a small gallery for temporary exhibitions, and a rental studio for filming or recording.
All these functions are aimed at healthy human leisure, helping a person to develop creatively and receive an education. And the industrial atmosphere, inspiring with its progressive beginning, we hope will inspire him to fully realize himself in everyday life after his vacation.

Technical information

In the process of finishing this industrial building, it was decided to use various materials to achieve a special style and atmosphere. One of the materials used was wood, which gave the interior warmth and comfort. Its use added naturalness and natural beauty to the industrial surroundings, creating an interesting contrast.

In addition to wood, concrete was used in the finishing process - a material characterized by durability and modern style. Concrete surfaces emphasized the industrial character of the building and added a modern edge to it. This combination of materials complemented each other, creating harmony and a unique interior design.

But in addition to wood and concrete, the existing structures of the industrial building became an important part of the finishing. Their use made it possible to preserve and emphasize the historical value of the building, adding impressiveness and uniqueness to the interior. Thus, the combination of wood, concrete and existing structures added a special charm and uniqueness to the appearance of the building, making it attractive and memorable.