Celia Balan
“Collaborating with Life List transformed an abandoned lot into a productive urban park. Implementing local materials and the rainwater irrigation system reduced maintenance costs by 40%.”
Cost reduction 40%Rehabilitation of the "Uzina 700" Industrial Park
Transforming a former industrial space into a civic and ecological hub
The Challenge and Approach
The former "Uzina 700" metallurgical plant, located in the heart of the city, had been abandoned for two decades, becoming an urban dead spot and a source of soil pollution. The challenge consisted of decontaminating the site and transforming it into a productive public space that would serve the community and restore ecological value to the area.
Our approach was an integrated one, based on the principles of the circular economy. We preserved significant historical industrial structures, reinforcing them with recycled concrete and reclaimed steel. For soil decontamination, we implemented a phytoremediation process, planting willow and reed species that absorb heavy metals. New structures were designed to maximize energy efficiency, using photovoltaic panels integrated into the roofs and a rainwater harvesting system for landscape irrigation.
Results and Impact
The project transformed 5 hectares of degraded industrial land into a mixed-use urban park, which includes workshops for local artists, a covered farmers' market, community gardens, and relaxation areas. The phytoremediation system reduced soil pollutant concentration by over 70% in the first two years.
The civic hub has become a focal point for cultural and educational activities, hosting over 50 community events annually. The integration of green technologies reduced the complex's energy consumption by 40% compared to a conventional standard. The project demonstrated that sustainable urban regeneration is economically feasible and essential for social cohesion, winning the National Award for Sustainable Urban Architecture.