With a key concept for the Badel Block proposal of creating the core as a living icon, the existence of such a rich structure as the old distillery building defines this approach. As an opportunity to develop a new structure that enhances new urban routines, this project becomes a strong new urban value. Designed by Pablo Pita Architects, the mixed-use proposal defines the morphology of the construction ring, breaking it down in several pieces. This enables the intervention to be phased and sets the right urban scale. More images and architects’ description after the break.
The intervention site is located in the eastern side of the Donji Grad, the Lower Town. An area with a strong urban pattern and a clear block typology. The scope however is set in a transit point where the obsolete structures contribute for the lack of urban definition. It is an expecting plot with an important industrial heritage and full potential to evolve into an important gathering spot in this urban context.
The solution emerges where the two subjects overlap: the concept + the context. The need for a strong iconic structure that sets a new pace as a heart (a core) and the sensibility to understand the urban morphology, enhancing its qualities. A well defined mixed-use block with a cultural center and a park are the grounding principles. A green Core that can be lived, with pedestrian walkthroughs, that offers restaurants, commerce, culture… New urban value for new social interaction always with the presence of its heritage and industrial memory. The old distillery adapted to a new cultural center stands out in this contrast offering new outdoor spaces that can not only be easily included in the social routines of the community but also attract new visitors.
The design approach establishes a perimetric construction ring tailored to the existing buildings. It consolidates Šubićeva, Martićeva and Derenčinova Str, defining the Badel Block and its surroundings. This urban awareness is one of the key principles to enhance the quality of the building environment in order to create attractive, high amenity environments people will chose to live in, work and visit.
Different shapes, different sizes and different uses are sued to enhance the continuous-discontinuity that defines cities – with gaps and passages that encourages you to visit the block interior.
Architects: Pablo Pita Architects Location: Zagreb, Croatia Team: Pablo Rebelo, Pedro Pita Client: City of Zagreb, Croatia Uses: Open/public space, entertainment, retail, dining, hotel, mixed-use, residential, culture, office Site Area: 20,000 sqm Construction area: 56,000 sqm Competition Date: Jan 2012 – May 2012
