KLADNO - IRON AND STEEL WORKS VOJTESSKA

In the 21st century, cities are undergoing transformation as societies shift from industrial to post-industrial modes of life. This process, which began in the second half of the 20th century, has brought significant changes to urban economies, where the importance of services has grown while the role of industry has diminished. Cities that were once heavily industrial now face challenges related to underutilized areas, so-called brownfields, left behind by industry. These areas need to be reimagined and transformed into functioning parts of the urban fabric. Kladno serves as an example of a city undergoing this transition. Since the 19th century, Kladno has been recognized as a hub for metallurgy and heavy industry. Driven by coal mining and the development of railways, it became an important center for iron and steel production. However, in the second half of the 20th century, industry began to decline, leaving the city with numerous abandoned industrial sites. One such site is the former Vojtěšská huť, which holds substantial historical and architectural value. Although no longer operational, the remaining structures and spaces stand as a reminder of the citys significant industrial past and represent an industrial heritage that needs to be preserved. The former Vojtěšská huť holds great potential to be transformed into a vibrant urban district that meets contemporary needs while retaining its remarkable identity. The transformation of Vojtěšská huť offers an opportunity to bridge the past with the present and create new prospects for the citys development. This project aims to explore this potential.