Adaptive reuse of a brewery site

Idea projektu

The project focuses on the reconstruction of the former brewery in Nitra, aiming to preserve the historical identity of the site while transforming it into a new cultural and educational landmark within the city. The main objective is the revitalization of decaying industrial architecture and its adaptation into a multifunctional public facility. The design reflects the historical development and social significance of the brewery, incorporating functions such as a gallery, a library, and a microbrewery, along with various community-oriented spaces. The project also responds to the lack of quality public spaces in the wider city center, establishing a new cultural and social node in Nitra.

Popis projektu

The aim is not only to preserve the historical identity of this important building, but also to integrate it into life in the form of an appropriate functional use that reflects the cultural and social needs. The proposal emphasises the adaptation of existing buildings to new functions while preserving their industrial character. Through the removal of the additions, the building is brought back to its pure original form, while new, differentiated, shapes and interventions are added to it. The new additions complement the chosen functions, respect the dominance of the original buildings, and thus create one functional urban complex with the potential to become a new cultural centre, which the city lacks. The addition of the shapes has contributed to the use of the original structure without the need to demolish the majority of the building and thus preserve the historically interesting structure. The thesis addresses not only the architecture, but also the redevelopment of the wider site with an emphasis on the public space and connecting the site to the surrounding area. The public space is divided into a number of microspaces, with a distinctive atmosphere based on its position in relation to the building. The breath of life for this historical building is a significant step towards the growth of the city not only in terms of education but also culture. The revitalisation of the brewery is an example of how architectural intervention can revitalise a decaying industrial heritage and transform it into a new cityforming element.

Technické informácie

The building structure is based on a combination of preserved and newly inserted construction elements. In the library part, the original concrete columns and beams remain exposed and structurally intact, while new steel stairs, an elevator, and a fire escape are integrated. Workshop areas are separated by steel frames with glass infill. In the foyer, which lost its original roof, a new steel gallery is introduced along the perimeter. All new architectural elements such as stairs, ramps, and public fixtures follow a unified material palette oxidized copper-finished steel. Technical rooms, storage, and employee facilities are located underground, while sustainable and adaptive reuse strategies are applied throughout the design to maintain both structural integrity and heritage value.