VERTICAL FACTORY IN URBAN SETTINGS
This studio project invites the concept of vertical programming to modern industry and factory design. The new century has had a few implications that call for this way of programming: the density of the urban space and the need for vertical growth; the advancement of technologies and new green, non-polluting means of producing; the need for bringing industries closer to the population in order to minimize transport and provide job opportunities for the local community. All of the aspects are in compliance with the global goals for sustainable development.
The design proposes a factory that becomes part of the urban space, not an exemption of it. A factory that utilizes the conveniences of the urban space and at the same time adds to the urbanity of the landscape. А hospitable factory that contributes to the programmatic variety of the neighborhood, aiding the community.
A research of all the urban-compatible branches of industry and services preceded the design. A beer brewery, a digital and 3D printing service, dry cleaners, a workshop for producing and designing wooden toys and electrical appliances service are all interconnected to give the visitor an insight in the industry processes. All of the industries inside the factory collaborate - one creates business ventures for the others, the other prints labels for the first, some bring potential buyers to others and so on. The production areas are highly transformable spaces with designated storage, labs and office areas. This allows for the venues to be able to be rented by other types of industries in the future, prolonging the estimated time for the building to be used in the near and far future.
Two volumes are seemingly connected in one metal-cladded rectangular prism which is pierced and divided in two by the so called intermezzo. The intermezzo has fully glazed facades and roof which create an always-sunny and well-lit public space. It is designated for the visitors to reach the industries and for the staff to take breaks in a unrestrained space. Stairs are positioned in this volume so that they pierce the rear facade creating a balcony, only in order to mirror their way and go all the way up to the highest level.
team members: Eva Zović, Simona Vasileska
