Courtyard

Courtyard is an adaptive-reuse project located in a densely populated, predominantly residential area, commonly referred to as a "commie block" neighborhood. It repurposes an abandoned concrete warehouse into a vibrant social hub, featuring a central courtyard as if an outdoor room, surrounded by wellness facilities, restaurants, and fitness functions. The design contrasts industrial materials of exposed concrete and galvanized steel with warm timber cladding. It softens the building’s industrial nature, creating an inviting space that becomes a destination in the area.

Nestled within a quiet, social-modernist neighborhood and surrounded by faceless commercial centers that fail to offer an attractive cityscape, the unfinished concrete skeleton stood abandoned for decades, like a ghost of its original purpose. Our goal was not only to repurpose this structure sustainably but to transform it into a building that offers the community a vibrant, welcoming public space. At the heart of the design a large, open green courtyard is placed, which serves as a focal point for the whole project. It is a place for residents and visitors to gather, relax, and interact, fostering a sense of community. The courtyard is activated by diverse functions accommodated in high-ceiling interior spaces. At the end of it, an elevated channel glass cube is placed to mark the main entrance, and act as a lantern to light up the whole public space.

The architectural and structural concept for this building revolves around flexibility, enabling it to adapt to future needs. The existing structural frame was preserved, retaining the high-ceilinged interior spaces originally designed for warehouse use. Large windows and a lightweight galvanized steel skin wrap the building, subtly reinforcing its public character while allowing the interior to accommodate a variety of functions that can easily adapt to changing future needs. Areas facing public flow "undress" the concrete skeleton, revealing warm timber facades and lush greenery to invite interaction. By repurposing this neglected, unfinished structure, we’ve created a vibrant, multifunctional destination that not only becomes a thriving hub for local residents as well as visitors but also embodies sustainability. This approach reduces waste and minimizes the environmental impact, breathing new life into an old space while adapting it to serve evolving needs.