Roberto Zanini

advisor

Universita IUAV di Venezia

Italy

quality architecture that is born from the place, from the study of the site, the flows, the… more

This project offers a meaningful and sensitive approach to adaptive reuse, transforming a long-abandoned dry-cleaning shop into a vibrant community art studio that embraces inclusiveness and cultural regeneration. The choice to preserve and highlight the building’s original wooden structure and exposed beams creates a strong sense of material memory and connection to the town’s history, while the open ceiling adds spatial quality and invites natural light. The emphasis on minimal intervention paired with active community involvement is particularly commendable, as it respects the building’s heritage and fosters a strong sense of ownership and belonging among residents.

The project successfully balances technical renovation with social impact, creating a welcoming space that supports intergenerational dialogue and wellbeing through creative activities. The custom-built furniture and updated lighting contribute to a warm, flexible environment tailored to the needs of the users.

To further strengthen the project, it could benefit from a more detailed exploration of the spatial layout and how different zones within the studio accommodate various activities simultaneously. Including user feedback or post-occupancy evaluations would provide valuable insights into how the space functions in practice and suggest possible improvements.

Additionally, expanding on the technical challenges of renovating a century-old wooden structure such as structural reinforcements, moisture control, or thermal comfort strategies would add depth to the architectural narrative. Exploring how sustainability was addressed beyond material preservation, such as energy efficiency or natural ventilation, could also enhance the environmental dimension of the project.

Overall, this project is a thoughtful and inspiring example of community-centered design, showing how architecture can contribute to social wellbeing and cultural vitality through respectful and creative reuse.

To improve the project, clarify how different activity zones are arranged to support flexible use of the space. Including user feedback would help understand how well the studio meets community needs. Adding more details on structural repairs and moisture control would strengthen the technical side. Finally, consider including passive ventilation or energy-efficient lighting to boost sustainability and comfort.