In Slovenia, over the past three decades, numerous shopping facilities have been constructed. Typically, such facilities are located in the outskirts of towns, leading to a shift of commercial activity away from the city center. However, due to changes in shopping habits (such as the move to online shopping) and the impact of the COVID-19 crisis, many retail establishments have become less visited.
This master’s thesis explores the reuse of one such facilitiy in Domžale. It differs from other retail buildings as it is situated in the heart of the city and is designed as a house with two wings and a square in front of it. What approach is the most sensible for this issue – demolition, reuse, or partial demolition and new construction?
The project not only deals with the renovation of the retail building but also aims to revitalize the central area of Domžale. It seeks to make this space in the city a destination once again, as it once was. This is achieved by establishing new public areas, a new sports hall, and a new residential building.
The desired result is a place-making, activated, and inclusive space. A space that will be used not only by the occupants of the building being renovated but also by people living and working in the immediate vicinity (municipality, courthouse, schools, private sector, etc., ...).
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