Regaining a sense of belonging
re-GENERATOR
re-GENERATOR- The center of urban culture
re-GENERATOR is a project that restores the brownfield industrial heritage of the town of Zabok. Focus was on the neglected factory hall of the "ZIVT" factory, which have been turned into modern center of urban culture re-GENERATOR. The project has renovated /reconstruct the industrial lant with a total net usable area of 2,195.90 m2 located in the center the city of Zabok
Croatia
Regional
City of Zabok, Krapina-zagorje county
Mainly urban
It refers to a physical transformation of the built environment (hard investment)
Yes
2023-12-31
Yes
CF : Cohesion Fund
No
No
As a representative of an organisation
Social growth and community development imply investments in physical infrastructure (communal infrastructure, facilities), but also the parallel implementation of programs that have as their ultimate goal the strengthening of the quality of the local population of a particular community. In addition to social services that are necessary to reconcile the work and private life of the population and care for the elderly members of society, it is necessary to develop the offer of diverse cultural centers / content that develop the creative potential of the society. The City of Zabok, as the economic and educational center of Krapina-Zagorje County, wants to provide quality programs for all members of society (local and regional) that will offer alternative/urban content in accordance with the needs of a modern, independent and self-aware person. Using the existing infrastructure that needs to be revitalized, the City of Zabok by investing in the reconstruction of the old industrial plant "ZIVT" in its area, becomes the leader of the cultural reform of Krapina-Zagorje County. The urban transformation of the ZIVT, part of which is the subject of this project, which preserves old factory buildings, is rare in Croatian terms, unlike European experiences where such examples are general places. Modelled on modern European cities, this project plans an urbanely demanding task of reconstructing a neglected industrial plant become a new, recognizable sign in the silhouette of the city of Zabok.
Culture
Architecture
Heritage
Industrial
Community
The project provides environmental protection measures: protection against noise, stench, air pollution, pollution of groundwater and surface water, etc. The building is designed in such a way that it meets health and hygienic conditions and that it does not endanger people and the environment. On the basement floor there is a heat-cooling station where heat pumps, pumps, hydraulic switches, expansion vessels, safety valves, heat exchangers and other equipment necessary for the safe and functional operation of the plant are located. From this station, further distribution of heat and cooling energy is carried out further throughout the building. Soil is used as the main source of thermal or cooling energy. In the courtyard, 24 probes were installed, each at a depth of 130 m. Probes were purchased that are made of a material that is extremely resistant to mechanical damage and has greater resistance than classic PEHD pipelines. For the purpose of preparing heat and cooling energy, three highly efficient ground/water heat pumps with inverter compressors were implemented. As a reserve for heating and for the needs of preparation and reheating of DHW, gas wall-mounted boilers were designed. In addition, in the engine room, i.e. The heat-cooling station is envisaged for the installation of two heat accumulators - one for the purpose of heat accumulation, and the other for the accumulation of cooling energy. The system has built-in manifolds and busbars that are used to distribute cooling or heating water from the accumulators to fan coils and air handling units. These measures ensure the reconstruction of a building that is a nearly zero-energy building in accordance with the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive 2010/31/EU.
The re-GENERATOR Centre of Urban Culture, created by the transformation of the former premises of the Zabok Regeneracija factory, is conceived as a complex system composed of one existing and two new spatial-functional complexes. Coded with the names 'Regenerator', 'Silos' and 'Incubator', the assemblies are simultaneously separated and united, acting as one building, but also as a mini neighborhood. Conceived in this way, the new re-GENERATOR is the bearer of a specific identity, both old and new, based on the industrial heritage of Zabok. The position and interrelationship of the three houses is defined by the main access square – the 'Red Carpet'. At the same time articulate and flexible, the outdoor space can take on a whole range of different scenarios – an open-air concert, a theater performance, a cinema projection, an exhibition, a skate park, a pop-up playground for children, a themed mini-fair, a performance, a panel discussion. The old Regenerator hall, two new extensions and a new square are inseparable parts of the same spatial concept – they act as a new social center, but also a new program point in the transformation of the former industry into a new city center. The materialization of the new re-GENERATOR is the formal equivalent of the diversity of the program – instead of unambiguity, monumentality and unification, diversity, openness and flexibility are emphasized. With different heights and mutual relations, the three units form a clear and dynamic set of recognizable identity, and the new re-GENERATOR becomes a new spatial sign in the silhouette of the city. The diversity of programs, people and content united under the common denominator re-GENERATOR, is manifested through the selection of different materials in the design of the façade of the three units. The profiled trapezoidal sheet, visible concrete and polycarbonate envelope clearly communicate the character of each unit, while connecting with the rich industrial heritage of Zabok.
The overall goal of the project is to establish a functional infrastructure for the development of the creative industry and quality leisure time for the community of the city of Zabok, but also the wider area of the County of Zabok. In order to achieve this goal, the City of Zabok, as the project holder and owner of the infrastructure that is the subject of renovation, has established a sustainable partnership with associations from the Zabok area, which are the bearers of creative and cultural activities of various profiles in the city, and are known beyond and form part of the City's brand. The partnership was established in the project preparation phase in order to develop a quality and sustainable content concept. This project aims to design a model for managing this space, including the wider community in its final design. The project aims to offer an innovative spatial concept that would house civil society organizations that operate in the creative industries sector, organize various events, promote culture through alternative methods of presentation and get closer to end users. In addition to the creative sector, it is necessary to establish a space for young people that includes the space of the volunteer center as a central point for the dissemination of information and the dissemination/promotion of volunteering as socially responsible behavior. As a supporting infrastructure, common areas such as a hostel, café and accompanying catering services will be designed, which will function on the basis of sustainable and socially responsible business with elements of social entrepreneurship and will be given in concession.
In the center of urban culture, re-GENERATOR A central point is created for the creation and offer of sustainable cultural programs for young people and all residents of the city of Zabok and the surrounding area, which directly contributes to strengthening the quality of life. The services that will be offered in the renovated infrastructure are divided into: (a) services offered by associations located in the space on a non-discretionary basis to all residents and interested stakeholders and (b) institutional support to associations from the area of the city of Zabok and Krapina-Zagorje County. Within the space, it is planned to establish a plug'n'play space – a space for young people in the sphere of business in the creative and cultural industries sector, as well as a space for the provision of catering services and accommodation space, which is planned to be given to interested economic stakeholders through a public tender.
The project involved not only the official applicant but also various associations from the area of Zabok, which were considered unofficial partners. Although these associations did not formally participate in the project, their feedback and practical experiences were invaluable to the project team during its implementation. This collaboration aimed to create optimal conditions for ongoing activities within the re-GENERATOR urban culture center. Furthermore, other stakeholders also played a significant role, contributing their suggestions and work experiences, which were crucial for the successful completion of the project. This collaborative approach fostered a sense of community and ensured that the re-GENERATOR met the needs of various local actors involved in cultural and urban initiatives.
The project used a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together expertise in urban planning, environmental science, contemporary art, architecture, landscape architecture and engineering, community engagement and business. This diverse array of disciplines has ensured that high-quality design meets local needs and is recognized by the community. Cooperation with companies meant that the private sector also recognized the value of investing in quality public spaces and a sense of belonging. This opens up new possible sources of funding for the development of such initiatives in the future. People with different backgrounds worked in small teams to come up with solutions. For example, the creative vision of the artist could be seamlessly integrated into the urban planning of physical spaces without subsequent ad hoc adjustments. Artists working alongside community representatives also ensured that the cultural program resonated and was accessible to the local population. After the design was prepared, the business partners offered information on the furnishing of the new premises. At the same time, facilitators with experience in the community are organizing outreach campaigns to involve more locals. This collaboration has led to widespread support among community members and partners.
The project aims to offer an innovative spatial concept that would house civil society organizations that operate in the creative industries sector, organize various events, promote culture through alternative methods of presentation and get closer to end users. In addition to the creative sector, it is necessary to establish a space for young people that includes the space of the volunteer center as a central point for the dissemination of information and the dissemination/promotion of volunteering as socially responsible behavior. As a supporting infrastructure, common areas such as a hostel, cafes, accompanying catering services will be designed, which will function on the basis of sustainable and socially responsible business with elements of social entrepreneurship and will be given in concession. The project aims to offer an innovative spatial concept that would house civil society organizations that operate in the creative industries sector, organize various events, promote culture through alternative methods of presentation and get closer to end users. In addition to the creative sector, it is necessary to establish a space for young people that includes the space of the volunteer center as a central point for the dissemination of information and the dissemination/promotion of volunteering as socially responsible behavior.
In order to examine the demand for the urban culture center and the facilities it will offer, the City of Zabok conducted a comprehensive survey of potential users and target groups during February and March 2018. A total of 66% of respondents answered that they could spend most of their free time in the City of Zabok. Most respondents (59%) use social networks or surf the Internet in their free time (53%), 56% of respondents visit cultural events, 42.6% stay in cafes, 35% read books, and 26% volunteer. More than 60% of respondents do not feel sufficiently involved in the life of the community. The majority of respondents (77%) are familiar with the concept of a cultural center / youth center / urban culture center and 53% of respondents would visit a space where they can spend their free time and visit exhibitions, events and cultural events. If such a center existed in Zabok, it would be visited by 80.9% of respondents. Respondents are most interested in concerts (84.6%), space for free gathering of young people (61%), space for exhibitions (48%), participation in various forums and trainings (44%), 42% of respondents would visit a boutique cinema, and 40% of respondents believe that a space for alternative art should be established. If this kind of content were available in Zabok in one place, 93% data subjects would benefit from access to those services. In contrast to the local population who will use the services, it is estimated that the established infrastructure will contribute to addressing the needs of stakeholders in the CCI sector in such a way that the CCI sector can become a leader in strengthening the "culture of creation" in the local economy, the sector can be a carrier of innovation. It is estimated that these activities will stimulate an economic cycle in which more and more young people will decide to start a business in the CCI sector.
The re-GENERATOR project includes several elements that can be replicated and adapted in a different place than the one where it was created. These include:
Participatory approach to urban development: Bottom-up collaborations with various stakeholders through interviews, surveys and practical workshops can be replicated to ensure that the needs and desires of the community are central to urban development projects and that the community not only expresses needs but also leads the design of solutions.
Adaptive reuse of space: refers to the process of repurposing existing buildings or areas for new uses, while preserving their historical and cultural significance. This practice is especially valuable in the realm of cultural events, as it enhances community development and fosters social connections. Here are several key aspects related to the adaptive reuse of spaces for cultural events: Accessibility, flexibility of space, Cooperation with Local Artists and Organizations, Promotion of Local Culture, Education and Community Engagement, Maintenance and Infrastructure (technical equipment and other necessary resources), Outdoor Space.
Integration: -Involvement of local civil society organizations in activating, developing and using individual potentials of young people in order to find new and effective solutions to social challenges. Developing cross-sectoral cooperation to strengthen the capacity of the association in the development of programs and projects and to create a better environment for civil society organizations. Strengthening civil society organizations with the aim of strengthening local communities.
Sustainability: The services provided in the newly established space are designed to have a positive environmental impact.Alongside this, cultural activities will focus on raising community awareness about environmental protection and promoting sustainable development.Throughout the project's implementation and beyond,we will prioritize the principles
Participatory approach to urban development: Bottom-up collaborations with various stakeholders through interviews, surveys and practical workshops can be replicated to ensure that the needs and desires of the community are central to urban development projects and that the community not only expresses needs but also leads the design of solutions.
Adaptive reuse of space: refers to the process of repurposing existing buildings or areas for new uses, while preserving their historical and cultural significance. This practice is especially valuable in the realm of cultural events, as it enhances community development and fosters social connections. Here are several key aspects related to the adaptive reuse of spaces for cultural events: Accessibility, flexibility of space, Cooperation with Local Artists and Organizations, Promotion of Local Culture, Education and Community Engagement, Maintenance and Infrastructure (technical equipment and other necessary resources), Outdoor Space.
Integration: -Involvement of local civil society organizations in activating, developing and using individual potentials of young people in order to find new and effective solutions to social challenges. Developing cross-sectoral cooperation to strengthen the capacity of the association in the development of programs and projects and to create a better environment for civil society organizations. Strengthening civil society organizations with the aim of strengthening local communities.
Sustainability: The services provided in the newly established space are designed to have a positive environmental impact.Alongside this, cultural activities will focus on raising community awareness about environmental protection and promoting sustainable development.Throughout the project's implementation and beyond,we will prioritize the principles
The "re-GENERATOR" project appears as a timely and innovative response to the global challenge of increasing the price of office space and business districts after COVID-19. Segregation and remote work have contributed to a growing sense of social isolation, as the once-lively interactions between residents and workers have diminished. To combat this problem, "re-GENERATOR" proposes an approach aimed at revitalizing and restoring a brownfield site of industrial heritage in the urban area of the city of Zabok. At its core, the initiative recognizes the urgent need for communal and cultural spaces, which have become increasingly rare in contemporary urban environments. By harnessing the potential of the old factory, the project aims to create inclusive, dynamic public spaces that foster community engagement and interaction. This initiative not only serves as a case study in the conversion of neglected halls and factories, but also encourages a broader discussion about the future of workspaces and their role in the fabric of community life. Imagining the work and cultural environment as interconnected rather than separate, "re-GENERATOR" advocates a holistic approach to urban development that prioritizes community spirit and social cohesion. In this way, the project seeks to transform the urban landscape into one that is vibrant, accessible and inclusive, providing a blueprint for similar ventures in other regions. Ultimately, "re-GENERATOR" illustrates how thoughtful design and innovative thinking can breathe new life into underutilized spaces, fostering a sense of belonging and collaboration while addressing the urgent needs of contemporary communities.
The re-GENERATOR project is an example of a sustainable and inclusive project, and its results confirm this. The reconstruction of the old industrial plant "ZIVT" has restored the brownfield industrial heritage of the city of Zabok and established a functional infrastructure for the development of the creative industry and quality leisure time. The implementation of the re-GENERATOR project created a space that is used for gatherings of young people, concerts, exhibitions, participating in various forums and education, cinema and other events. Also, civil society organizations (10 associations) and entrepreneurs from the city of Zabok and beyond from the cultural and creative industries sector operate in the space. In addition to direct beneficiaries and effects, the indirect effects of the project are visible through the added value of income for entrepreneurs in the creative and cultural industries sector, the increase in the number of employees in the sector, the increase in the number of visitors, tourists and arrivals to Krapina-Zagorje County, and the reduction of the financial burden for potential entrepreneurs/ startups in the CCI sector.
