Pelplin, a small town in Pomerania with a rich history, could become an example of how a former brownfield site can be transformed into a modern and friendly urban space. The "La Dolce Vita" project - developed by an interdisciplinary team of male and female students from four Gdansk universities - is a vision of new life for the site of a former sugar factory, inspired by the Italian idea of "sweet life."
axonometry of the site
© Hanna Osowska , Aleksandra Szok, Mikołaj Wargowski, Wiktoria Dzierma, Adrian BaskevHanna Osowska , Aleksandra Szok, Mikołaj Wargowski, Wiktoria Dzierma, Adrian Baske
new life for former sugar factory
The site of the former sugar factory in Pelplin is a vast area that is now largely overgrown with wild vegetation. The industrial character of the site is still recalled by the numerous outcrops - depressions in the area of various sizes, periodically filling with water and turning into small ponds. The location of the site - in the vicinity of the railroad tracks and the Wierzyca River - provides unique opportunities to use it both as a residential and recreational space.
However, the "La Dolce Vita" project is more than just revitalization - it is an idea to create a space that meets the needs of residents/residents. Its name alludes to both the tradition of the sugar mill and the Italian philosophy of enjoying everyday life. This was precisely the idea that guided the team of students, who combined their diverse competencies to develop a harmonious urban vision.
key elements of the project
Central to the project are two intersecting axes that organize the entire space. The first, longitudinal axis, is a linear park - a green avenue with pedestrian paths, urban flower meadows and urban agriculture zones where residents can grow vegetables and fruits. The second, transversal axis, connects a tunnel under the tracks to provincial road 230, providing convenient transportation between different parts of the city.
At the heart of the intersection of these axes is the atrium building - planned as the center of local community life. Its interior provides space for a café, fitness club, children's play space and a senior citizens' club. The extensive courtyard surrounding the atrium was designed as a rain garden - a space where rainwater can be collected and retained, creating a natural microclimate conducive to relaxation.
The residential buildings in the project were inspired by the shape of "sugar cubes." Modular cubic blocks, depending on their configuration, can serve as single-family houses, small multi-family buildings or a kindergarten. Such a solution allows flexible adaptation of the space to the needs of different groups of residents/residents.
masterplan, analysis, sections
© Hanna Osowska , Aleksandra Szok, Mikołaj Wargowski, Wiktoria Dzierma, Adrian BaskevHanna Osowska , Aleksandra Szok, Mikołaj Wargowski, Wiktoria Dzierma, Adrian Baske
integration of green areas with urban space
One of the most important objectives of the project was to integrate green areas with urban space. The former settling ponds were preserved and transformed into retention ponds, which serve as rainwater reservoirs. Wooden bridges were planned around them, allowing for walking and nature observation.
The eastern part of the site is to remain more natural and wild, creating a space conducive to recreation and relaxation. It is here that a playground, a bar with a terrace and a deckchair rental facility are planned. The northern part of the site will include a bicycle service point and small food and beverage outlets, while the southern part - along the Wierzyca River - will include a camping area and canoeing marina.
interdisciplinarity key to success
Working on the "La Dolce Vita" project was a unique experience for the team of male and female students. By combining expertise from various fields - from architecture and urban planning to environmental health - they were able to create a design that takes into account both aesthetics and the needs of the residents/residents and the environment.
Trips to Pelplin, workshops and a series of lectures allowed students to better understand the specifics of the site and the expectations of the local community. Cooperation between the universities showed how valuable it is to combine different perspectives and experiences in the design process.
cross sections, projections, visualizations
© Hanna Osowska , Aleksandra Szok, Mikołaj Wargowski, Wiktoria Dzierma, Adrian BaskevHanna Osowska , Aleksandra Szok, Mikołaj Wargowski, Wiktoria Dzierma, Adrian Baske
The future of "La Dolce Vita"
"La Dolce Vita" is a project that proves that even neglected brownfields can become a space conducive to life and integration of the local community. Thanks to the work of an interdisciplinary team and the support of the Pomeranian Academy of Public Space Planning, Pelplin has gained not only a new vision, but also hope for a future full of "sweet life."
Will this vision be realized? Much depends on the future decisions of the authorities and residents. One thing is certain, however - the "La Dolce Vita" project has shown how much potential there is in the creativity and cooperation of young people.
The project team consisted of: Hanna Osowska from the Gdansk University of Technology (architecture), Aleksandra Szok from the Academy of Fine Arts in Gdansk (architecture of cultural spaces), Wiktoria Dzierma from the University of Gdansk (spatial management), and Adrian Baske and Mikołaj Wargowski from the Medical University of Gdansk (environmental health). The project was carried out in cooperation with the Association of Fahrenheit Universities (Gdansk Medical University, Gdansk University of Technology, University of Gdansk) and the Academy of Fine Arts in Gdansk.
