TRANSFORMATION OF THE FORMER TEXTILE FACTORY - BRNĚNEC

Project idea

The aim of the proposal is the conceptual revitalization of the unused block of a former textile mill, whose oldest parts date back to the late 19th century. The buildings themselves are currently in poor technical condition and largely without functional use (some serve partially as warehouses). The complex is located in the center of Brněnec and holds historical significance; during World War II, the northern part housed the Gross-Rosen concentration camp, where Oscar Schindler saved more than 1,100 Jews.

The architectural study focuses on the adjacent block of the former textile mill, which has been deteriorating since the decline of textile production in Brněnec in 2012. The study also addresses the functional use of warehouse buildings, as well as the surrounding public space and proposes a conceptual extension of a hotel.

The primary concept is based on combining presentation, educational, and supportive functions aimed at entrepreneurship, with a focus on improving the employment situation in the region by attracting small businesses and entrepreneurs to a business hub, thereby offering job opportunities.

Project description

In terms of integrating with the surrounding buildings, the study respects the existing residential and amenity structures and seeks to build upon them. The transverse design of the connecting passage in the central part of the textile mill primarily serves as an interior pedestrian link, connecting the rural character of the public space with the center of the complex – a square with amenities and recreational features. Additionally, this connection provides direct access to the proposed functions of the business hub, particularly its public presentation area, gallery, exhibition and multifunctional spaces, as well as dining facilities.

The adjacent public space is designed as a recreational area with the possibility of hosting small public events. A prominent feature in this public space is a collection of corten steel ribs arranged in a block of 110 panels, each 4.2 meters high and wedge-shaped. This assembly forms an art piece memorializing the strength of Jewish prisoners from the Gross-Rosen concentration camp located here during World War II.

The study aims to unify the currently discordant center of Brněnec, creating a space or axis upon which the new center of Brněnec can build. It also emphasizes the presentation of the village, its history, and the creation of space for job opportunities, as well as supporting the recreational character of the area.

The proposal endeavors to intervene minimally into existing structures, ensuring a clean and readable design approach. Simultaneously, the architectural study considers ecological factors to create a pleasant and energy-efficient environment.

Technical information

From an architectural standpoint, the old structure is renovated and cleaned of non-essential additions. The space is generally open, divided by lightweight sliding or folding partitions, allowing for versatility across different functions and over time. The structural system primarily relies on a reinforced concrete skeleton in the textile mill section, with dimensions of 8x8.1 meters, and clerestory lighting providing natural light through a sawtooth roof oriented to the north. The materials used emphasize simplicity and clarity. Old sections are preserved in their original form, while new additions are distinctly material-separated to enhance the distinction between old and new constructions.

Documentation

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