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Frymark
Frymark – Creative Social Space in a Historic Locomotive Shed
Frymark is the revitalization of a historic locomotive shed in Krupski Młyn – a space for art, craftsmanship, and community. We are creating a gallery, a carpentry and metalworking workshop, a café club, and a green relaxation area. Combining history with modernity, we promote sustainability and social inclusion. Frymark is a place for meetings, inspiration, and activities that bring local culture to life and support talent development.
Poland
Local
Krupski Mlyn
Mainly rural
It refers to a physical transformation of the built environment (hard investment)
Prototype level
No
No
As a representative of an organisation

Project: Frymark – Creative Social Space in a Historic Train Depot

Frymark is a socio-cultural initiative aimed at revitalizing a historic train depot in Krupski Młyn, transforming it into a creative hub for artists, artisans, and the local community. The project merges the preservation of cultural heritage with modern approaches to art, education, and sustainability, fostering a space that strengthens local identity and encourages social cohesion.

How does the project integrate the values of the New European Bauhaus?
Frymark aligns perfectly with the NEB principles of sustainability, aesthetics, and social inclusion:

Sustainability – repurposing existing infrastructure instead of demolishing it, using eco-friendly materials and renewable energy, and applying circular economy principles.
Aesthetics – blending the site's industrial history with contemporary design to create an inspiring and functional space.
Social Inclusion – ensuring accessibility for all, organizing workshops for marginalized groups, fostering intergenerational dialogue, and supporting local creatives.
Long-term impact and addressing local challenges
Krupski Młyn is a small town with limited access to cultural and artistic opportunities. Frymark addresses these challenges by:

Creating job opportunities and development spaces for local artists and craftsmen – increasing their visibility and economic prospects.
Strengthening social ties through creative activities – building a stronger, more connected community and counteracting depopulation.
Enhancing quality of life – providing cultural events, workshops, and gathering spaces that revitalize the area and attract both residents and visitors.
Frymark is a model example of how history, ecology, and social innovation can be combined. In the long run, it will serve as a benchmark for sustainable public space revitalization, merging local traditions with a forward-looking European vision of inclusivity and sustainability.
Revitalization
Creativity
Sustainability
Community
Inclusion
Frymark will be an example of sustainable post-industrial space revitalization, merging cultural heritage preservation with modern ecological solutions.

Objectives and their implementation:
Preserving existing infrastructure – instead of demolishing the historic train depot, the project will focus on adaptive reuse, reducing construction waste and carbon footprint.
Using renewable materials and technologies – eco-friendly materials and renewable energy sources (e.g., solar panels) will contribute to resource efficiency.
Circular economy principles – recycling raw materials and repurposing furniture and construction elements will help minimize waste.
Green community space – the surrounding area will be transformed into a communal garden, fostering biodiversity and social engagement.
Environmental education – workshops on sustainable craftsmanship, upcycling, and eco-design will promote awareness and responsible practices.
Exemplary model
Frymark will demonstrate that sustainable revitalization can integrate heritage conservation with cutting-edge eco-friendly innovations. Its approach will serve as a blueprint for similar projects, particularly in repurposing industrial buildings across Europe. The project will advocate for socially responsible and environmentally conscious urban spaces, inspiring other communities to embrace climate action and local identity preservation.
Frymark will be a space that merges aesthetics, history, and culture, creating an inspiring and functional environment. Through thoughtful design and cultural programming, the project will provide a unique experience for both the local community and visitors.

Objectives and their implementation:
Blending history with modern design – the original structure of the historic train depot will be preserved and complemented by contemporary architectural elements that emphasize its industrial character.
Creating an aesthetically pleasing and functional space – interiors will be designed to foster creativity, relaxation, and social interaction. Open spaces, natural lighting, and eco-friendly materials will create a welcoming atmosphere.
Art gallery and exhibition space – the venue will offer artists a platform to showcase their work while providing visitors with immersive artistic experiences.
A dynamic cultural program – concerts, workshops, and performances will bring the space to life and define its unique identity.
Integrating art into public space – murals, light installations, and interactive spaces will seamlessly blend culture with everyday experiences.
Exemplary model
Frymark will serve as an example of how aesthetics and culture can enhance community life. The project will demonstrate that thoughtful design, spatial harmony, and a rich artistic offering can transform an industrial site into a modern hub of culture and creativity, serving as an inspiration for similar initiatives across Europe.
Frymark will be a space open to everyone, regardless of age, social status, or ability level. Inclusion will be ensured through accessibility, affordability, participatory governance, and universal design principles.

Objectives and their implementation:
Architectural accessibility – the building will be adapted for people with disabilities through ramps, wide pathways, tactile signage, and other “design for all” principles.
Affordability – most cultural events, workshops, and educational activities will be free or available at a symbolic cost, ensuring participation regardless of financial means.
Inclusive governance – Frymark will operate on a participatory model, involving the local community in decision-making regarding the space’s development and activities.
Programs for marginalized groups – workshops will be dedicated to at-risk youth, the elderly, refugees, and people with disabilities, fostering their personal growth and social inclusion.
Creating social and intercultural connections – the space will promote diversity through intergenerational and cross-cultural events, strengthening community bonds.
Exemplary model
Frymark will be a model for a new societal framework based on collaboration and accessibility, where culture and creativity are truly available to all. The project will demonstrate that inclusive spaces can bring people together and build stronger, more diverse communities, serving as an inspiration for similar initiatives across Europe.
Frymark will be a community-driven project, where citizens are not only beneficiaries but also active contributors in shaping and running the space.

Role and Level of Community Involvement:
Public consultations and co-design – residents of Krupski Młyn and surrounding areas have been invited to co-create the space’s concept through meetings, surveys, and workshops. Their input will directly influence Frymark’s layout and functionality.
Volunteering and participation – local artists, craftsmen, and residents will take part in renovation works, interior design, and cultural event organization.
Open governance model – Frymark will operate as a participatory initiative, allowing citizens to propose activities, organize events, and take part in decision-making processes.
Partnerships with social organizations – collaboration with NGOs, local groups, and educational institutions will extend the project’s reach and facilitate social programs.
Impact on the local community – citizen involvement will help strengthen social bonds, activate residents, and increase their sense of belonging to the space.
Impact of Community Involvement on the Project
Thanks to active participation, Frymark will become a space truly reflecting the real needs of the local community. This engagement will ensure the project’s long-term sustainability, as users will see it as their own, collectively created and nurtured place.
Frymark will be a project that brings together local, regional, national, and European stakeholders, creating a cross-sectoral collaboration model for sustainable revitalization and socio-cultural development. Each stakeholder will contribute unique value, enhancing the project’s effectiveness and impact.

Role and Level of Stakeholder Engagement:
Local Level (Community, Organizations, Municipal Government)

Residents and local artists – actively participate in co-creating the space through consultations, volunteering, and event organization.
Local NGOs and cultural institutions – collaborate in organizing workshops, events, and social programs.
Municipal government (Krupski Młyn) – provides administrative and logistical support, facilitating implementation through space allocation and regulatory assistance.
Regional Level (Local Action Groups, Cultural Institutions, Business Organizations)

Local Action Group (LGD "Leśna Kraina Górnego Śląska") – supports funding and integrates the project with other regional development initiatives.
Cultural and educational institutions – co-organize artistic, training, and educational programs.
Regional businesses – supply building materials, eco-technologies, and service support.
National Level (Ministries, Institutes, NGOs)

Ministry of Culture and National Heritage – may support the project in heritage conservation and cultural funding.
Foundations and NGOs – provide expertise in accessibility, inclusivity, and community-driven funding models.
European Level (EU, International Cultural Networks)

EU Programs (New European Bauhaus, European Green Deal) – serve as an inspiration and potential funding source.
Partnerships with other European revitalization projects – enable knowledge exchange and best practice implementation.
Frymark will be a multidisciplinary project, combining different knowledge fields and sectors to create a harmonious, functional, and sustainable space. Experts from architecture, arts, ecology, education, social economy, and public space management will collaborate on its implementation.

Key Knowledge Fields and Their Role in the Project:
Architecture and Urban Planning – architects and heritage conservation specialists will lead the adaptive reuse of the train depot, preserving its historical character while adapting it to modern needs.
Arts and Culture – artists and curators will contribute to exhibition spaces, cultural programming, and integrating art into public areas.
Ecology and Sustainability – environmental experts will help implement green building technologies, waste management strategies, and circular economy principles.
Education and Pedagogy – educators, cultural animators, and learning organizations will co-create workshops and programs aimed at developing community skills.
Social Economy and Project Management – specialists in social economy and entrepreneurship will support local initiatives and develop sustainable funding models.
Interdisciplinary Collaboration and Added Value of the Process:
Synergy of expertise – integrating knowledge from various disciplines will ensure that the space is functional, aesthetically pleasing, and environmentally friendly.
Innovative solutions – an interdisciplinary approach will facilitate the introduction of modern revitalization and public space management methods.
Social sustainability – engaging experts from diverse fields will help align the project with real community needs, ensuring its long-term success.
Frymark will serve as a model for interdisciplinary collaboration, where different fields of knowledge come together to create a modern, inclusive, and sustainable space.
Frymark will stand out from traditional revitalization and cultural projects through its unique combination of history, sustainability, art, and social participation. Unlike many conventional initiatives that focus solely on aesthetic restoration, Frymark will be a dynamic, interactive creative hub built on sustainable development and inclusivity principles.

Key Innovations of Frymark:
A Holistic Approach to Revitalization

Instead of a typical renovation, Frymark will merge heritage preservation with modern design, eco-friendly solutions, and an interactive social space.
The project will promote circular economy principles, reusing materials and minimizing waste.
New Models of Governance and Co-Creation

Unlike centralized management, Frymark will implement a participatory model, where residents and local artists actively shape the space.
The project will explore alternative funding methods, including crowdfunding, social economy models, and public-private partnerships.
Integration of Art, Ecology, and Education in One Space

Frymark will combine cultural, workshop, and community functions, fostering a unique environment for creative collaboration.
Educational programs will focus on sustainability, arts, and craftsmanship, supporting local talent and future-oriented skills.
Long-Term Social and Cultural Impact

Frymark will not just be an event venue but a platform for community-building and local creative economy development.
Through its innovative approach to revitalization and governance, the project will serve as a model for other cultural and social initiatives across Europe.
Why Is Frymark Innovative?
While mainstream projects often focus on either historical preservation or cultural events without deep community involvement, Frymark will be a living space of creativity, co-created and co-managed by citizens, grounded in sustainability and modern design principles.
Frymark will be based on a participatory, sustainable, and interdisciplinary approach, ensuring that the space meets community needs while integrating ecological and cultural aspects.

Key Elements of the Methodology:
Participatory Approach (Co-Creation & Co-Governance)

Community consultations – residents, artists, and NGOs will be involved in every stage of the project through workshops, surveys, and public meetings.
Collaborative management – Frymark will function as a shared space where the local community co-decides on events, exhibitions, and overall operations.
Sustainability and Circular Economy

Adaptive reuse of existing infrastructure – repurposing the historic train depot instead of demolishing it will reduce construction waste and preserve cultural heritage.
Eco-friendly technologies and materials – the project will incorporate renewable energy sources and recycled materials.
Interdisciplinary Approach

By integrating architecture, arts, ecology, education, and social economy, Frymark will create a holistic environment addressing diverse needs.
Cross-sector collaboration will enable the implementation of innovative revitalization and sustainable management strategies.
Testing and Evaluation Model

Continuous user feedback analysis will allow for real-time adjustments and improvements.
Pilot educational and cultural programs will be tested and refined based on community responses.
Why Is This Approach Effective?
Frymark’s methodology combines traditional values (heritage preservation, community engagement) with innovative management and sustainability strategies, ensuring the creation of a creative, inclusive, and long-lasting space rooted in real community needs.
Frymark will be a modular and adaptable project, making it easy to replicate or tailor to different locations and social needs. Key aspects that can be replicated or adapted elsewhere include methodology, technology, management processes, and socio-cultural solutions.

1. Participatory Methodology
Community consultations and co-design – engaging residents in planning can be applied to other revitalization projects, regardless of scale or location.
Co-creation governance model – cultural spaces can function as grassroots-driven platforms where the community actively shapes events and activities.

2. Adaptive Reuse of Post-Industrial Spaces
Repurposing existing buildings – the train depot model can be adapted for other post-industrial structures (e.g., factories, warehouses, train stations) to transform them into modern creative hubs.
Sustainable building solutions – using recycled materials, renewable energy, and waste minimization can be implemented in various architectural projects.

3. Integration of Culture, Education, and Sustainability
Multi-functional space model – combining exhibition areas, workshops, concerts, and community engagement can inspire similar cultural projects locally and internationally.
Educational and ecological programs – workshops on crafts, art, and circular economy principles can be adopted in both urban and rural educational settings.

4. Alternative Funding and Collaboration Models
Diversified funding sources – crowdfunding, public-private partnerships, and social economy models can be successfully applied to other projects, enhancing their sustainability.
Development of local creative networks – Frymark can serve as a blueprint for establishing artist, artisan, and activist networks that co-develop creative spaces.
Frymark responds to key global challenges with local, practical solutions integrating sustainability, heritage conservation, social inclusion, and cultural development.

1. Climate Crisis → Local Ecological Revitalization
Circular economy: adaptive reuse of historic infrastructure, material recycling, and waste reduction.
Renewable energy: solar panels and energy-efficient technologies to lower CO₂ emissions.
Green spaces: community gardens and biodiversity-friendly landscaping to improve air quality and urban resilience.
2. Social Exclusion → Building an Inclusive Community
Participatory design: residents co-create the space through consultations and shared governance.
Accessibility: free or low-cost events and inclusive infrastructure for all.
Empowerment programs: workshops for marginalized groups (youth, seniors, people with disabilities) fostering social integration.
3. Urbanization & Loss of Identity → Heritage Conservation
Adaptive reuse: transforming the depot into a creative hub while preserving its historical character.
Support for local crafts: platform for artisans and cultural heritage promotion.
Community-driven storytelling: exhibitions and events celebrating regional traditions.
4. Economic Inequality → Social Economy & Skills Development
Entrepreneurship support: marketplace for artisans and creatives to showcase and sell their work.
Alternative funding: combining crowdfunding, public-private partnerships, and social economy.
Skills training: workshops in craftsmanship, design, and entrepreneurship for economic sustainability.
5. Mental Health & Social Isolation → Culture-Driven Well-being
Creative spaces: art studios, performance areas, and coworking hubs fostering collaboration.
Art therapy: using creativity to support personal and community well-being.
Intergenerational exchange: knowledge-sharing programs connecting seniors, artists, and youth.
In the year following the application, Frymark will focus on space adaptation, community engagement, and long-term sustainability to ensure effective implementation and scalability.

1. Infrastructure and Space Adaptation (Months 1–6)
Securing additional funding through grants, crowdfunding, and partnerships.
Finalizing architectural and technical plans, prioritizing sustainability and accessibility.
Starting the renovation of the historic train depot, incorporating eco-friendly solutions.
2. Community Involvement and Stakeholder Engagement (Months 3–9)
Organizing workshops and consultations to give the community a voice in Frymark’s development.
Building a network of partners, including cultural institutions, NGOs, local creatives, and entrepreneurs.
Running a promotional campaign through social media and local events.
3. Launch of Activities and Events (Months 6–12)
Pilot cultural events, exhibitions, and workshops to refine programming.
Opening the community café and coworking space.
Evaluating initial activities and adjusting offerings to community needs.
4. Long-Term Strategy and Scaling (Months 9–12 and beyond)
Assessing the project’s impact and developing a growth strategy.
Collaborating with international partners to exchange best practices.
Exploring new locations to replicate the Frymark model.