Transformation and re-use of urban wasteland: four case-studies

Abstract

This paper examines several established urban contexts containing remnants from pre-existing industrial zones, now abandoned, but which are part of an original urban lay-out that needs to be reinterpreted, redeveloped and re-utilized to provide a possible alternative to the present urban sprawl. The project for transformation/change comprises an intervention methodology that demands appropriate approaches, sensitivity and tools, ranging from urbanistic to architectural control, from technological and structural to social and fruitive checks. Several design hypotheses are presented, illustrating how the enhancement of industrial zones may contribute to the urban regeneration of entire areas or parts of a city, whilst, at the same time, fostering recovery and economic growth throughout the area.