Franc Obguia

advisor

Cebu Institute of Technology – University (CIT-U), College of Engineering and Architecture, Cebu City

Philippines

Architecture and Sustainability more

Your project "Revitalisation of the Löw Beer family textile factory. Weaving foundation for a sustainable future", presents a refreshingly honest and respectful approach to adaptive reuse and historical revitalization. The guiding principles—“no demolition without reason,” “no censorship of history,” and allowing time layers to remain visible—clearly set the tone for a thoughtful intervention. This conceptual foundation reflects a deep sensitivity to the site's cultural and historical significance. The idea of adding architectural "comments" instead of overwriting the past is poetic and effective in maintaining the integrity of the existing structures while offering new functions.

The presentation is very well structured and visually compelling. The isometric diagrams are particularly helpful in communicating spatial relationships and layering, giving viewers a clear sense of how the new additions interact with the historical remains. The plans are clean and organized, effectively illustrating zoning and programmatic flow. The renders are evocative and successfully portray the atmosphere of respectful coexistence between decay, memory, and modernity.

Your technical strategy is also commendable. Emphasizing visible systems (electricity and water lines), sustainable interventions (green roofs, solar panels, biological insulation), and material continuity (the re-use of red terrazzo tiles) reveals a strong understanding of both environmental responsibility and architectural storytelling. The decision to fill cracks and window voids in a way that draws attention rather than hides imperfections adds character and honesty to the design. Great work on how you studied the revitalization of the space—your awareness of structural safety, material preservation, and accessibility is thorough and commendable.

It’s also worth noting your thoughtful use of color, texture, and transparency to guide users through the space. By using frameless windows in old door openings or highlighting time-worn masonry with clay, you create a spatial experience that is visually informative and emotionally resonant. These choices not only guide orientation but also provoke reflection on the layered narratives of the site. Your integration of nature and respect for its “reconquest” further enhances the authenticity of the space.

Thank you, Sinje Sommer, and congratulations for participating in the Inspireli Competition. Your project is a compelling example of how architecture can heal, educate, and preserve without overpowering. You’ve successfully shown that architectural design can act as a medium for storytelling, memory, and community engagement. Keep nurturing this thoughtful approach—you are creating work that resonates beyond aesthetics.