| Abstract [eng] |
With the onset of the post-industrialization period, many abandoned industrial areas emerged in cities. Their existence not only contributes to a negative urban image but also creates adverse social impacts, weakening communities and increasing the sense of insecurity in public spaces. One of the possible strategies for managing these territories is urban regeneration. One of the tools of urban regeneration is the conversion process. Today, conversion is becoming an increasingly popular method for revitalizing former industrial areas, as such territories are often located in strategically attractive locations and occupy large land plots, making them suitable for the development of mixed-use projects that combine residential and commercial functions. Kaunas, like other Lithuanian cities, has many such abandoned territories, while successful examples of conversion include the “Drobė Factory” in Kaunas and the internationally awarded Paupys district in Vilnius, developed in the former “Skaiteks” factory area. The object of the master’s final project is the territory near the Panemunė Bridge in Lower Šančiai, for which a conversion feasibility study is being prepared. The aim of the study is to create a model for a former industrial territory based on the principles of New Urbanism, while preserving local identity, strengthening the connection with the river, and encouraging community interaction. During the theoretical research phase, information was collected and systematized through the analysis of literature sources and analogous projects, forming the basis for a hypothetical model. The hypothetical model was developed according to the principles of New Urbanism: mixed-use functions, a strong and active community, accessible public spaces, preservation of local identity, and high-quality urban density. During the empirical research phase, methods such as site observation, historical source analysis, space syntax analysis, expert discussions, and case studies were applied to test the research hypotheses and develop a conceptual model. The conclusions obtained from the theoretical and empirical research, together with the conceptual model, were applied in the experimental project prepared for the territory near the Panemunė Bridge in Lower Šančiai. The findings revealed that a successful conversion model is only possible by preserving the elements that shape local identity and adapting them for public use. It is also important to maintain and create production–related jobs, ensure a mixed-use urban structure, strengthen connections with the river, and create community spaces, thus forming a diverse and socially vibrant urban environment. |
