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GP1 Title: SolarHaus –Freiburg – A Net-Zero Energy Community Center Germany #

📍 Location: Freiburg, Germany

Introduction #

Located in the Vauban district of Freiburg, Germany, the SolarHaus is a flagship example of how architecture can harmonize ecological responsibility with social value. Conceived as a public community center, it is built to passive house standards and demonstrates the potential of net-zero energy design. The building harnesses solar energy through photovoltaic and thermal systems, collects and reuses rainwater, and incorporates locally sourced timber in its construction.

Freiburg, often called Germany’s “Green City,” developed the Vauban district as a model for sustainable urban living. SolarHaus stands at the heart of this vision, offering spaces for community gatherings, cultural events, and environmental education. Its design prioritizes natural light, ventilation, and biodiversity, while its operation emphasizes inclusivity and accessibility for all residents.

As a living laboratory for sustainable development, SolarHaus inspires local and international visitors to reimagine the relationship between people, buildings, and the environment. It embodies the principles of the New European Bauhaus (NEB): sustainability, aesthetics, and social inclusion.

🔗 Link: https://visit.freiburg.de/attraktionen/heliotrop Source Google 23.6.2025

🔗 Link: https://visit.freiburg.de/attraktionen/solarsiedlung-und-sonnenschiff Source Google

🔗 Link: https://visit.freiburg.de/attraktionen/green-city-hotel-vauban Source Google 23.6.25

Heliotrop in Freiburg

🔗 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heliotrope_(building) Source Wikipedia 23.6.25

Context

SolarHaus is a public community centre built to passive house standards using solar energy, rainwater harvesting, and local timber. It promotes social inclusion and sustainable design.

Learning Objectives

• Understand NEB principles in Green building.
  
• Analyze SolarHaus as a sustainable architecture model.
  
• Create local action plans based on NEB values.
  

Session Plan

• Introduction to NEB principles (15 mins)
  
• Case study analysis: SolarHaus (30 mins)
  
• Design workshop: Local green hub (45 mins)
  
• Reflection and feedback (30 mins)
  

✅ What the sector can learn: Passive House (QHM-Oriented)

🌱 1. SolarHaus – Freiburg, Germany

🌍 Environment #

SolarHaus exemplifies how architecture can directly address climate change. Built to passive house standards, the community centre uses high-performance insulation, airtight construction, and advanced ventilation systems to minimize energy demand. Renewable energy technologies, such as solar façades and photovoltaic panels, provide the building’s energy needs, making it net-positive in energy production. Features like rainwater harvesting systems and the use of locally sourced timber further reduce its environmental footprint and serve as replicable solutions for other urban projects.

1. Passive house design minimizes energy consumption through insulation and heat recovery.
   

Lesson: SolarHaus uses triple glazing, compact form and passive solar gain to reduce heating needs.
→ Adaptation: Adapt building shells to passive standards with local insulation materials.
→ Example Implementation: These principles can be applied in both rural and urban settings by adapting design to local climate and materials.
→ Practical Step: Conduct site analysis and thermal imaging to define retrofit potential and insulation strategies.

1. Renewable energy integration enables net-zero performance.
   

Lesson: SolarHaus integrates solar panels, natural ventilation and local timber to power its functions.

→ Adaptation: Plan solar PV, storage and ventilation systems based on site potential. → Example Implementation: Any community building with sufficient sunlight exposure can implement solar and ventilation strategies.
→ Practical Step: Assess solar orientation and develop a system plan including off-grid backup and maintenance training.

1. Water conservation enhances building sustainability.
   

Lesson: SolarHaus uses rainwater harvesting for non-potable water needs.

→ Adaptation: Install rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling systems.
→ Example Implementation: Rainwater systems are scalable and applicable in water-stressed or seasonal climates.
→ Practical Step: Install water tanks and dual-piping systems for rain and greywater; involve local plumbers and regulators.

👥 Society #

As a public space, SolarHaus fosters inclusive community engagement by offering programs in sustainability education, cultural exchange, and social events. Its design prioritizes accessibility and healthy indoor environments, supporting physical and mental well-being for all users. The center serves as a meeting point for diverse groups, reinforcing the idea that ecological buildings can also strengthen social cohesion.

1. Green community buildings foster inclusive engagement and health.
   

Lesson 1: SolarHaus provides a green courtyard, workshop rooms and cultural events for local residents.
→ Adaptation: Create open meeting spaces and green surroundings accessible to all.
→ Example Implementation: Similar multifunctional spaces can be implemented in other towns to support social well-being.
→ Practical Step: Co-design communal gardens, safe paths and shade areas with community groups.

1. Education in green buildings raises ecological awareness.
   

Lesson: SolarHaus hosts school visits and climate action programs in partnership with educators.
→ Adaptation: Offer guided tours and involve schools in energy monitoring.
→ Example Implementation: Any school or learning centre can replicate these activities with low investment.
→ Practical Step: Create interpretive signage, open building data dashboards, and involve teachers in tour scripting.

1. Community participation strengthens building identity and social value.
   

Lesson: SolarHaus involved local associations in design and programming decisions.
→ Adaptation: Include local stakeholders in planning and activities.
→ Example Implementation: Inclusive planning models are applicable across cultural and administrative contexts.
→ Practical Step: Host participatory design workshops and establish a user council for long-term programming.

🏛️ Politics #

SolarHaus stands as a testament to Freiburg’s proactive municipal policies that encourage energy-positive public buildings. Local incentives and supportive urban planning frameworks enabled its realization. This project demonstrates how cities can lead the energy transition by integrating sustainability goals into public infrastructure development and aligning them with climate action strategies at the municipal level.

1. Municipal support is key to public Green building success.
   

Lesson: SolarHaus was supported by Freiburg city and energy agencies under a Green building initiative.
→ Adaptation: Collaborate with local authorities for funding and permitting.
→ Example Implementation: Local governments elsewhere can replicate the support model via public funding or climate programs.
→ Practical Step: Align building project with municipal sustainability goals and integrate it into city plans.

1. Public green buildings can serve as demonstration models.
   

Lesson: SolarHaus publishes its energy performance and inspires similar projects in the region.
→ Adaptation: Share building performance data and design methods openly.
→ Example Implementation: Knowledge-sharing platforms and open access to performance data are broadly applicable.
→ Practical Step: Develop project documentation and evaluation formats for national and EU platforms.

1. Policy alignment ensures continuity of sustainable building efforts.
   

Lesson: SolarHaus benefited from energy efficiency incentives and fits into Freiburg’s climate strategy.
→ Adaptation: Coordinate local, regional and EU-level funding and regulations.
→ Example Implementation: Integrated policy frameworks enable scaling at municipal and national level.
→ Practical Step: Seek cross-level policy support and secure matching funds or technical assistance.

💶 Economy #

While initial investments in sustainable technologies may be higher, SolarHaus illustrates substantial long-term cost savings through reduced energy consumption and low operational costs. Its focus on local procurement for materials and labour supports the regional economy and contributes to the growth of green jobs in construction, renewable energy installation, and ongoing maintenance.

1. Energy-efficient buildings reduce operational costs over time.
   

Lesson: SolarHaus is nearly cost-neutral due to low heating and electricity expenses.
→ Adaptation: Invest in insulation and renewable systems to minimize lifetime costs.
→ Example Implementation: Public buildings worldwide can benefit from lower lifecycle costs through efficiency upgrades.
→ Practical Step: Conduct a life cycle cost analysis and align renovation budgets with future utility savings.

1. Local procurement and maintenance support regional green jobs.
   

Lesson: SolarHaus uses timber from nearby forests and local builders for refurbishment.
→ Adaptation: Use local materials and craftspeople in construction and care. → Example Implementation: This approach strengthens regional economies and applies well to rural development. → Practical Step: Partner with local forestry, timber processing, and training centres for workforce inclusion.

1. Multi-purpose buildings increase economic resilience.
   

Lesson: SolarHaus serves as event venue, education center and social meeting space.
→ Adaptation: Enable flexible use (e.g., events, co-working, learning).
→ Example Implementation: Mixed-use green buildings can respond to varied local needs.
→ Practical Step: Equip rooms with modular furniture and digital infrastructure for hybrid use.

🎓 Education #

SolarHaus functions as a living laboratory for sustainable architecture. It provides guided tours, interactive exhibits, and educational programs that engage students and visitors alike. The building’s design allows for student-led monitoring projects and hands-on learning experiences, making it an adaptable model for environmental education at various levels.

1. Green buildings can act as learning environments for all ages.
   

Lesson: SolarHaus includes real-time energy dashboards and student projects on building performance.
→ Adaptation: Design spaces with educational displays and live data on sustainability.
→ Example Implementation: These features can be adapted in schools, visitor centers, or libraries with minimal infrastructure.
→ Practical Step: Collaborate with schools and eco-educators to develop project-based learning modules.

1. Interdisciplinary climate education is supported by real-life examples.
   

Lesson: Schools visit SolarHaus as part of their climate education curriculum.
→ Adaptation: Use the building as a site for STEM and environmental education.
→ Example Implementation: Similar experiential learning programs can be implemented in many countries using local examples.
→ Practical Step: Embed learning goals into the site visit experience and train facilitators.

1. Learner participation encourages behavioural change.
   

Lesson: SolarHaus runs youth-led activities to track performance and propose green solutions.
→ Adaptation: Involve students in building monitoring and improvement ideas.
→ Example Implementation: The participatory model strengthens environmental engagement and fits many formal education systems.
→ Practical Step: Provide student teams with sensors and templates to track and improve performance indicators.

🔧 Practical Steps for Implementation for complete GP1 Solarhus #

(Based on the Green building Good Practice Examples 1)

1. Assess Existing Building Potential
   • Conduct a structural, energy and material audit.
     
   • Identify passive house upgrade opportunities.
     
   • Analyse orientation for solar potential.
     
2. Engage Stakeholders Early
   • Involve local residents, schools and municipal agencies.
     
   • Define multi-purpose use goals: education, culture, community.
     
3. Plan Energy and Resource Efficiency
   • Design for solar panel integration, insulation, and ventilation.
     
   • Include water harvesting and reuse systems.
     
   • Select local, renewable construction materials.
     
4. Design for Inclusion and Learning
   • Ensure barrier-free access and community zones.
     
   • Install learning displays, dashboards, and flexible learning rooms.
     
5. Secure Funding and Political Support
   • Apply for city and EU funding mechanisms (e.g., NEB, Green Deal).
     
   • Align with municipal strategies and climate targets.
     
6. Implement and Monitor
   • Work with local contractors and suppliers.
     
   • Launch guided tours, student projects and data-sharing.
     
   • Adjust and improve based on performance reviews.
     
     
     

These steps can guide similar public building renovations and new constructions that seek to combine sustainability, aesthetics, and inclusion, following the New European Bauhaus principles.

✅ This step-by-step logic is transferrable to:

• School renovations
  
• Community centres
  
• Urban greening initiatives
  
• Youth-led eco-projects
  
• Circular economy hubs
  

GP2 Title: The Community Resource Center (CERC) – Romania #

📍 Location: Boldești-Scăeni, Romania

Introduction #

Description:
The Community Resource Center (CERC) in Boldești-Scăeni, Romania, is the country’s first public building constructed from straw bales and a pioneering model of sustainable, community-centered architecture. Developed through a partnership between OMV Petrom, Habitat for Humanity Romania, local authorities, and civil society organizations, the center serves as an educational, social, and vocational hub for disadvantaged groups – especially the local Roma population.

Designed by architect Adrian Pop, CERC blends traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge eco-technologies, promoting social inclusion and environmental responsibility.

NEB Principles:
• Sustainability: The building is fully off-grid, using renewable energy from photovoltaic and thermal panels, collecting and purifying rainwater, and employing straw bale insulation and clay plaster to regulate temperature and humidity. It was built following the rigorous Living Building Challenge sustainability standard.
• Aesthetics: Natural materials like wood, straw, clay, and shingle roofing create a warm, vernacular appearance, while thoughtful integration of passive design and landscape elements (e.g., permaculture gardens) link the architecture to local traditions and ecological cycles.
• Inclusion: CERC was co-created with community members who participated in the building process, especially from the Roma minority. It actively supports social integration through after-school programs, parental education, vocational training, and artistic workshops that engage children and adults alike.

CERC Boldești-Scăeni embodies not just the spirit of the New European Bauhaus through sustainability, beauty, and inclusion – but also sets a benchmark for co-creation, local identity, circularity, and affordability. It’s a truly regenerative, community-rooted project that transforms architecture into a social catalyst.

CERC Boldești-Scăeni: un centru social, educațional și o clădire auto-sustenabilă. Lângă Ploiești.

🏛️ Politics #

Description

The Community Resource Center (CERC) in Boldești-Scăeni, Romania, represents a pioneering model of sustainable, inclusive, and community-driven development. As the first public building in Romania constructed from straw bales, and fully independent from public utility networks, CERC exemplifies the integration of environmental innovation with deep social impact. Conceived as a collaborative initiative between OMV Petrom, local NGOs, architects, and the municipality, the center provides educational, vocational, and social services for marginalized groups, particularly the local Roma population.

Knowledge Contributions and Political Relevance

1. Integrating Social Equity into Sustainable Infrastructure

Insight: CERC demonstrates that sustainable architecture can be a direct vehicle for addressing structural inequalities, by embedding education, employment, and cultural services within a low-impact, off-grid building.
Policy relevance: Public investment in sustainable infrastructure should include social criteria alongside environmental metrics. National and regional policies can mandate that climate-resilient public buildings also support inclusive social programs.

Application:

• Introduce policy frameworks that combine Green building standards with social inclusion benchmarks.
  
• Encourage the use of Living Building Challenge or NEB-aligned criteria in projects targeting disadvantaged communities.
  

2. Architecture as a Tool for Empowerment and Participation

Insight: The CERC initiative employed participatory design and co-construction, actively engaging community members—particularly from the Roma community—in the building process. This not only enhanced local ownership but also contributed to skill-building and employment.
Policy relevance: Participatory construction should be formalized as a best practice in community development policies. Grassroots involvement leads to more culturally relevant, accepted, and sustainable outcomes.

Application:

• Develop national guidelines on participatory design for public buildings.
  
• Create funding streams for community-led infrastructure projects that prioritize co-creation with vulnerable populations.
  

3. Decentralized, context-sensitive regeneration

Insight: Rather than relying on large-scale urban renewal, CERC illustrates how a small, context-sensitive intervention can generate significant positive impact by directly addressing local socio-economic realities.
Policy relevance: Policymakers should support micro-scale, high-impact interventions in secondary towns and peri-urban areas, where top-down models often fail to reach marginalized communities.

Application:

• Integrate community hubs into rural and small-town development plans.
  
• Prioritize funding for modular, replicable interventions that can adapt to specific local needs.
  

4. Public-Private-Civic Partnerships as Catalysts

Insight: The success of CERC was enabled by a strong multi-stakeholder collaboration between corporate actors, NGOs, local authorities, and citizens. Each actor brought complementary expertise and resources.
Policy relevance: Public-private-civic partnerships (PPCPs) are essential for delivering complex, value-driven projects that require not only technical capacity but also trust and long-term engagement.

Application:

• Institutionalize PPCPs within regional development strategies.
  
• Provide legal frameworks and shared governance models for joint implementation of NEB-aligned projects.
  

5. Cultural continuity through sustainable innovation

Insight: By employing traditional techniques and materials—straw, clay, wood—alongside modern engineering solutions, CERC bridges local heritage and environmental innovation. This supports cultural preservation while enabling climate adaptation.
Policy relevance: Cultural heritage should not be siloed from environmental policy. Instead, climate-smart policies can integrate traditional knowledge and craftsmanship as assets for sustainable transition.

Application:

• Fund “green heritage” pilot projects that combine vernacular architecture with modern sustainable practices.
  
• Protect and promote traditional building knowledge through education, apprenticeships, and integration into national building codes.
  

6. Evidence-based policy innovation

Insight: CERC functions as a living lab for sustainable construction, offering empirical evidence on the viability of off-grid, regenerative public buildings. It also demonstrates strong alignment with EU priorities under the Green Deal, Social Pillar, and Just Transition.
Policy relevance: Pilot projects like CERC provide critical data and models for informing broader legislative reforms, such as building code modernization, public procurement innovation, and integrated social-climate policies.

Application:

• Create a national registry of demonstrator projects aligned with NEB principles.
  
• Embed post-occupancy evaluation mechanisms to collect and report on energy, water, and social outcomes of NEB projects.
  

Strategic Implications for Policymakers

CERC Boldești-Scăeni provides a concrete model for how built environments can facilitate inclusive, climate-resilient development in marginalized areas. For policymakers at local, national, and EU levels, this initiative reinforces the need to:

• Reframe public infrastructure as a multi-functional platform for education, empowerment, and sustainability.
  
• Integrate architecture, social innovation, and climate policy under a unified development strategy.
  
• Adopt long-term investment horizons for community-led projects with measurable environmental and social return.
  
• Promote narratives of hope and dignity in marginalized areas by investing in high-quality, beautiful, and locally meaningful spaces.
  

💶 Economy #

Description:

The Community Resource Center (CERC) in Boldești-Scăeni, Romania, offers a compelling business case for integrating environmental sustainability, social responsibility, and community empowerment into the built environment. Developed through a multi-sector partnership, CERC is the first public building in Romania constructed from straw bales and designed to operate entirely off-grid. While primarily a social initiative, it offers valuable lessons and replicable strategies for the private sector – especially those operating in construction, energy, CSR, and community development.

Key takeaways for the business sector

1. Sustainability as a value generator

Lesson: CERC demonstrates that sustainability can significantly reduce operational costs while enhancing brand equity. The building produces more energy than it consumes and requires no connection to public utilities.
Business implication: Sustainable building practices not only reduce long-term costs but also improve risk resilience and brand credibility – especially relevant as ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) standards become central to investment decisions.

Application:

• Invest in passive building techniques and renewable energy to future-proof assets.
  
• Use off-grid solutions to reduce dependency on volatile utility markets.
  
• Align business development with EU climate targets to unlock funding incentives.
  

2. Community co-creation as an economic strategy

Lesson: CERC was constructed with direct participation from the local Roma community, offering employment, vocational training, and cultural engagement.
Business implication: Involving communities not only fosters trust but can also reduce labor costs, enhance supply chain sustainability, and stimulate local economies.

Application:

• Implement inclusive employment strategies during project development.
  
• Use community co-design as a method for reducing implementation friction and increasing long-term asset stewardship.
  
• Explore social procurement models that prioritize local suppliers and artisans.
  

3. Public-private-civic synergies

Lesson: The success of CERC was made possible by collaboration between OMV Petrom, NGOs, local government, and architects.
Business implication: Multi-stakeholder partnerships can lower investment risks, align interests, and ensure broad support for complex initiatives.

Application:

• Form consortia with civic and public actors to apply for EU funding (e.g., NEB Lab, Horizon Europe).
  
• Share infrastructure and operational costs across sectors.
  
• Develop long-term, purpose-driven partnerships that go beyond conventional CSR.
  

4. New market opportunities in circular and low-carbon construction

Lesson: CERC integrates traditional building materials (e.g., straw, clay, wood) with innovative solutions (e.g., screw pile foundations, breathable insulation, water reuse systems).
Business implication: There is growing demand for eco-construction solutions that are affordable, modular, and locally sourced – particularly in rural and emerging markets.

Application:

• Invest in R&D for natural and regenerative materials.
  
• Develop prefabricated straw or clay wall systems for export or scalable deployment.
  
• Position your company as a leader in circular building materials and climate-resilient design.
  

5. Purpose-driven branding and storytelling

Lesson: CERC has gained national recognition and awards not only for its design but for the values it represents-sustainability, inclusion, and innovation.
Business Implication: In the age of purpose-driven markets, projects that reflect authentic commitments to environmental and social impact generate stronger stakeholder loyalty and media attention.

Application:

• Embed storytelling into marketing strategies.
  
• Align brand identity with global sustainability agendas such as the Green Deal and the NEB initiative.
  
• Leverage third-party certifications (e.g., Living Building Challenge) to differentiate offerings.
  

6. Innovation through constraints

Lesson: CERC achieved high sustainability standards on a limited budget by using local labor, smart design, and low-tech solutions.
Business implication: Resource constraints can drive innovation and open new markets in cost-sensitive regions.

Application:

• Explore frugal innovation in sustainable construction and infrastructure.
  
• Develop solutions for low-income and off-grid markets, especially in Eastern Europe and the Global South.
  
• Offer affordable consultancy or design packages for NGOs, schools, and municipalities.
  

Strategic recommendations for business leaders

Define a holistic sustainability strategy

Move beyond compliance to create measurable impact in your operations, supply chains, and investment portfolios. Projects like CERC illustrate how architecture can embody values and deliver multi-layered ROI – economic, environmental, and social.

Create value through local embeddedness

Strengthen market presence by integrating local knowledge, materials, and labor into your business model. This reduces costs, strengthens reputation, and meets the growing demand for locally relevant solutions.

Embrace partnership-driven development

Design business models around cooperation with civil society, municipalities, and academia. Leverage co-funding opportunities through NEB, Interreg, or national green transition funds.

Market regenerative design and social impact

Build and market projects that regenerate rather than merely sustain—projects that produce more energy than they consume, empower people through education, and honor place-based identity.

Conclusion: a business case for regenerative infrastructure

CERC Boldești-Scăeni is not only a social intervention but a business blueprint. It proves that low-tech, community-centered, and ecologically responsible design can deliver scalable, profitable, and socially accepted results. Businesses willing to embrace these principles will be better positioned in a future shaped by decarbonization, social cohesion, and citizen participation.

🎓 Education #

Description:

CERC Boldești-Scăeni is not only a model for sustainable construction and social inclusion but also a living educational platform that bridges environmental design, cultural preservation, community development, and vocational training. Its participatory approach, rooted in hands-on learning and traditional craftsmanship, offers rich insights for how educational institutions can redefine their role in shaping resilient, inclusive, and future-ready communities.

What the educational sector can learn from CERC

1. Embedding sustainability into experiential learning

Lesson: CERC is a fully energy-positive, off-grid building constructed using natural materials such as straw, clay, and wood. It demonstrates ecological design in real time.
Adaptation: schools and universities can use buildings like CERC as practical case studies for teaching sustainability, energy efficiency, permaculture, and ecological design.

Implementation:

• Develop hands-on modules for architecture, engineering, and environmental science students on passive design, renewable energy systems, and natural materials.
  
• Organize site visits, construction workshops, and maintenance labs within sustainable community hubs.
  

2. Vocational education for social equity

Lesson: CERC integrates vocational training directly into its programming, offering marginalized groups access to skills in construction, agriculture, and artisan crafts.
Adaptation: educational institutions should broaden vocational curricula to include Green building techniques and cultural trades, particularly in underserved communities.

Implementation:

• Partner with local NGOs and businesses to offer dual-track education combining academic learning with practical trade skills.
  
• Create training programs in sustainable construction methods like straw bale building, clay plastering, or permaculture gardening.
  

3. Interdisciplinary and applied education

Lesson: CERC’s creation involved architects, engineers, craftsmen, educators, and social workers working collaboratively. The outcome is both a building and a tool for interdisciplinary engagement.
Adaptation: educational programs can be restructured to bring together students from diverse fields to solve complex, real-world challenges like climate change, poverty, and social cohesion.

Implementation:

• Establish capstone projects where architecture, social work, environmental science, and education students co-design community spaces.
  
• Introduce interdisciplinary studios focused on community-based design and sustainable development.
  

4. Promoting cultural and craft-based education

Lesson: traditional techniques – such as wood shingling, clay plastering, and basket weaving – were revived during CERC’s construction, reinforcing cultural identity and intergenerational learning.
Adaptation: educational institutions should incorporate local heritage and vernacular construction into design, art, and craft curricula.

Implementation:

• Develop electives on Romanian vernacular architecture and traditional construction techniques.
  
• Invite local artisans to co-teach practical workshops and mentor students in heritage crafts.
  

5. Connecting formal education with community learning

Lesson: CERC serves as a shared educational space, offering activities for children, youth, and adults alike, fostering a culture of lifelong learning.
Adaptation: schools and universities should extend their role beyond students to become community learning anchors.

Implementation:

• Create shared education hubs where local schools, NGOs, and universities deliver community workshops in digital literacy, parenting, sustainability, or entrepreneurship.
  
• Use flexible spaces within schools for after-school tutoring, vocational labs, or intergenerational learning programs.
  

6. Reimagining the school as a social-ecological hub

Lesson: CERC functions as more than a center – it is a climate-adaptive, socially integrated node that delivers not just education, but nourishment, safety, and empowerment.
Adaptation: education infrastructure should be reconceived as multi-functional civic spaces that foster both human and ecological well-being.

Implementation:

• Design school buildings to be resource-efficient, food-producing, and health-promoting (e.g., school gardens, rainwater harvesting, renewable energy).
  
• Pilot educational facilities that act as emergency shelters, community kitchens, or vocational training centers.
  

Strategic recommendations for educational institutions

Integrate place-based and practice-based learning

Anchor learning in the local context by using community sites like CERC as living laboratories. This builds deeper understanding, agency, and relevance for learners.

Strengthen community-education partnerships

Facilitate collaboration between schools, civic actors, and municipalities to co-design programs that benefit both learners and the wider community.

Develop interdisciplinary curricula aligned with neb values

Create programs at the intersection of sustainability, equity, and design that reflect the challenges of contemporary society and prepare students for systemic problem-solving.

Foster local identity through heritage education

Revitalize local crafts, materials, and construction traditions within formal education to foster cultural continuity and skill retention.

Conclusion: a learning model for the future

CERC Boldești-Scăeni offers an integrated model for education that goes beyond classrooms – it teaches by doing, builds by involving, and transforms by empowering. It challenges the educational sector to see the built environment not only as infrastructure but as pedagogy – an active, inclusive, and regenerative learning ecosystem. By adopting and adapting this approach, educational institutions across Europe can help shape the socially just and ecologically resilient future envisioned by the New European Bauhaus.

👥 Society #

Description:

CERC Boldești-Scăeni is more than an off-grid building – it is a community-powered engine for social resilience, education, equity, and cultural regeneration. Built using natural, local materials and created in partnership with marginalized groups, it operates as a social infrastructure that delivers lifelong learning, job training, cultural pride, and environmental awareness. Its success offers a replicable model for the social sector, media organizations, and civil society actors seeking to foster meaningful and inclusive community transformation.

Key lessons and adaptations

1. Community revitalization and social cohesion

Lesson: CERC was created in direct response to the needs of a marginalized Roma community, fostering cooperation between ethnic groups, bridging educational gaps, and creating a shared civic space.
Adaptation: social initiatives can use sustainable infrastructure as a tool to combat social fragmentation, reduce marginalization, and create inclusive community anchors.

Implementation:

• Transform underused or vacant buildings into multipurpose community centers based on local needs.
  
• Prioritize inclusive programming that brings together diverse community groups for events, meals, education, and dialogue.
  

2. Empowering marginalized groups through co-ownership

Lesson: members of the Roma community were actively involved in constructing CERC, gaining employment, skills, and a stake in the space.
Adaptation: social projects should embed empowerment into the development process, enabling historically excluded groups to co-create and benefit from shared community assets.

Implementation:

• Incorporate inclusive hiring practices in community-based infrastructure projects.
  
• Facilitate workshops where locals can contribute to building, design, or programming of the space.
  

3. Creating economic opportunities through social innovation

Lesson: CERC combines education, vocational training, food services, and small-scale agriculture – generating social and economic value simultaneously.
Adaptation: community hubs should integrate job-readiness programs, entrepreneurship support, and skills training, particularly for youth and long-term unemployed populations.

Implementation:

• Launch vocational programs in Green building, permaculture, and craft production.
  
• Host social enterprises or cooperatives focused on local services, food, or craft, creating income and employment locally.
  

4. Cultural identity as a source of social resilience

Lesson: CERC reintroduces traditional techniques like clay plastering, straw insulation, and weaving – embedding cultural memory in the building itself and passing down knowledge.
Adaptation: social projects can reclaim and celebrate local identity, especially in areas where cultural erosion, migration, or marginalization have disrupted continuity.

Implementation:

• Support heritage-based programs such as artisan workshops or storytelling events.
  
• Involve elders or cultural practitioners in mentoring programs for youth.
  

5. Community-led development and participatory governance

Lesson: CERC was designed with continuous community input, ensuring its relevance and fostering long-term engagement and stewardship.
Adaptation: social infrastructure projects should be built with – not just for – the community, using participatory planning and shared governance structures.

Implementation:

• Establish local advisory boards that include youth, women, and underrepresented voices.
  
• Use participatory budgeting to co-define priorities for public or donor-funded programs.
  

6. Promoting social sustainability through place-based design

Lesson: CERC’s design addresses not only ecological impact but also social needs – education, nourishment, belonging – embodying sustainability in its broadest sense.
Adaptation: the social sector should expand the definition of sustainability to include social infrastructure that improves quality of life and reduces vulnerability.

Implementation:

• Incorporate kitchens, gardens, and learning spaces in social housing, shelters, or community centers.
  
• Design buildings that support health, resilience, and dignity for vulnerable populations.
  

7. Amplifying social impact through strategic media

Lesson: CERC’s success has been widely documented in Romanian media, inspiring new conversations about sustainability, equity, and community agency.
Adaptation: the media sector plays a critical role in showcasing grassroots innovation, shaping narratives around marginalized communities, and shifting public discourse.

Implementation:

• Media outlets can partner with social initiatives to co-produce documentaries, podcasts, or community storytelling platforms.
  
• Launch campaigns that celebrate local success stories, breaking stigmas and building pride.
  

Strategic recommendations for the social and media sector

Use the built environment as a platform for social programming

Design community spaces not just as shelters or schools but as multipurpose venues for health, training, cultural expression, and collective care.

Embrace intersectoral collaboration

Combine the strengths of NGOs, architects, educators, and journalists to co-design inclusive environments and amplify their impact.

Promote participatory communication and media

Empower communities to tell their own stories through participatory journalism, citizen media, or community exhibitions.

Align with EU and national social priorities

Connect projects like CERC with broader strategies under the EU social pillar, the New European Bauhaus, and just transition mechanisms.

Conclusion: a blueprint for empowered communities

CERC Boldești-Scăeni offers a bold rethinking of how the social and media sectors can work together to build equity, dignity, and shared purpose – starting with the very spaces people inhabit. It turns inclusion from a policy into a practice and transforms sustainability into something you can touch, live in, and grow with. By adopting this integrated, participatory, and values-based model, social actors across Europe can help regenerate not only places – but also the people and relationships that make those places matter.

🌍 Environment #

Description:

CERC Boldești-Scăeni stands as a pioneering model of regenerative, community-based architecture that operates entirely off-grid, produces more energy than it consumes, and integrates ecological cycles into the very core of its function. Designed according to the living building challenge, it exemplifies how the built environment can become an instrument of ecological regeneration rather than degradation. The environmental sector – governments, planners, NGOs, and green industry stakeholders – can draw significant lessons from this Romanian initiative for promoting climate resilience, circularity, and low-carbon development in other contexts.

Key environmental lessons and adaptations

1. Regenerative, off-grid infrastructure

Lesson: CERC is fully autonomous in energy and water use, utilizing photovoltaic panels, thermal collectors, and biological water treatment systems. It achieves net-positive energy production and closed-loop water management.
Adaptation: the environmental sector should prioritize regenerative infrastructure models that move beyond “low impact” toward positive impact systems—especially in underserved, peri-urban, or rural areas.

Implementation:

• Promote energy-positive public buildings using solar, wind, or geothermal energy.
  
• Integrate greywater and blackwater treatment systems for agricultural reuse.
  
• Fund pilot projects that demonstrate complete resource independence at a community level.
  

2. Carbon-negative construction techniques

Lesson: the use of straw bale insulation, natural clay plaster, and timber framing not only reduces embodied carbon but also sequesters it.
Adaptation: transitioning to carbon-negative materials and traditional construction methods – combined with high-performance design – offers a pathway toward decarbonizing the building sector.

Implementation:

• Incentivize the use of bio-based materials (e.g., straw, hemp, wood fiber) in public and private construction.
  
• Support research into life-cycle analysis of traditional materials within modern construction standards.
  
• Include natural construction in Green building certification systems and sustainability taxonomies.
  

3. Adaptive reuse of land, not just buildings

Lesson: CERC was sited in a way that promotes community integration and repurposes previously underutilized urban land near key public institutions.
Adaptation: adaptive reuse should extend beyond buildings to the landscape – reclaiming degraded or socially segregated land for community-serving, ecologically sensitive infrastructure.

Implementation:

• Map vacant or underused land parcels for green retrofitting and social reuse.
  
• Use zoning reforms to encourage environmental education hubs and eco-villages on post-industrial sites.
  
• Partner with municipalities for land repurposing programs aligned with nature-based solutions.
  

4. Permaculture and urban agriculture

Lesson: CERC incorporates permaculture gardening, managed by children, teaching food sovereignty and ecological literacy from an early age.
Adaptation: environmental institutions should integrate agroecology and permaculture into urban design, linking environmental stewardship with food security.

Implementation:

• Establish school and community gardens as part of environmental awareness programs.
  
• Support funding for ecological landscaping in social housing and community centers.
  
• Combine public education campaigns with training in sustainable food systems and soil regeneration.
  

5. Waste as a resource

Lesson: blackwater at CERC is treated anaerobically to produce compost and non-toxic water for slow-release infiltration, demonstrating a closed-loop waste system.
Adaptation: waste treatment in environmental planning should prioritize local, decentralized systems that create usable outputs and minimize pollution.

Implementation:

• Promote small-scale biowaste treatment units in rural schools, farms, or eco-communities.
  
• Fund circular sanitation pilots, especially in areas with limited sewer infrastructure.
  
• Encourage compost-based fertilizer production from public or institutional buildings.
  

6. Climate resilience and nature-based design

Lesson: the building and its surrounding site are designed to respond to climatic conditions – deep overhangs protect from heat, breathable clay plaster regulates indoor humidity, and permeable pavement minimizes runoff.
Adaptation: climate-adaptive architecture should be embedded in building codes and public infrastructure planning, particularly in regions facing extreme weather and temperature variation.

Implementation:

• Integrate nature-based features (e.g., green roofs, rain gardens) into new public projects.
  
• Promote vernacular building knowledge as a strategy for passive cooling/heating.
  
• Use CERC as a teaching site for regional resilience training programs.
  

7. Environmental education through design

Lesson: CERC’s ecological systems are not hidden – they are visible, interactive, and part of the educational experience for children and community members.
Adaptation: environmental infrastructure should be designed as pedagogical infrastructure – transforming buildings into living labs for sustainability.

Implementation:

• Design environmental education centers with open-system visibility (e.g., exposed solar trackers, rainwater collection tanks, composting units).
  
• Use green buildings as part of sustainability curricula in schools.
  
• Launch environmental stewardship programs linked to the building’s performance data.
  

Strategic recommendations for environmental stakeholders

Shift from mitigation to regeneration

Adopt project evaluation frameworks that reward positive ecological contributions, such as soil improvement, carbon sequestration, biodiversity gain, and water retention—not just carbon reduction.

Scale natural material markets

Support certification, supply chain infrastructure, and public procurement policies that make natural building materials viable and competitive in mainstream construction.

Foster innovation through demonstrator projects

Use initiatives like CERC to seed innovation in green construction, water management, and energy systems. Replicate such demonstrators in other vulnerable or rural communities.

Promote cross-sector partnerships for sustainability

Collaborate across urban planning, agriculture, public health, and education sectors to co-deliver resilient, zero-waste, and community-owned environmental solutions.

Conclusion: building a regenerative future

CERC Boldești-Scăeni offers the environmental sector a powerful example of how to go beyond “sustainability” toward regeneration. It fuses traditional wisdom with modern science, reduces ecological impact while building social resilience, and inspires a model of development that restores ecosystems, empowers people, and strengthens communities. Adapting and scaling this approach offers a concrete pathway toward achieving climate neutrality, circularity, and environmental justice across Europe and beyond.

GP3 Title: Pavlos Melas Metropolitan Park Greece #

📍 Location: THESSALONIKI, GREECE

Introduction #

The former military camp of Pavlos Melas in Thessaloniki, Greece, abandoned completely in 2005, is in the process of being transformed into a 33-hectare metropolitan park through collaborative efforts between different governmental organizations. This urban regeneration project aims to convert a deteriorating urban gap into a multifunctional green space that will integrate cultural facilities, including a new municipal hall, museums, and commercial spaces, while prioritizing ecological restoration and community wellbeing.

NEB Principles:

• Sustainability: Preserving existing structures instead of demolishing and rebuilding, increasing green places in the urban centre, reducing the heat island effect, noise and air pollution minimization.
  
• Aesthetics: Balancing the rehabilitation of green spaces with the restoration and new reusing of existing buildings, repurposing the architectural heritage of the military past.
  
• Inclusion: Fostering stakeholder engagement that involves citizens, associations and politicians, while serving the broader Thessaloniki and European community with diverse cultural and educational spaces.
  

🏛️ Politics #

The adaptive reuse of the Pavlos Melas Metropolitan Park offers the political and business sector valuable lessons in how strategic urban regeneration can create value for both political leadership and business development.

Here are some key takeaways where political sector can benefit from this and how they can be adapted to other places:

1. Strategic Long-Term Urban Planning and Development in Phases:

• Lesson: Political leaders can adopt the Pavlos Melas model of strategic, phased urban development that balances immediate needs with long-term cultural and environmental goals.
  
• Adaptation: The project demonstrates how political authorities can manage complex urban transformation through systematic planning that addresses multiple stakeholder needs while maintaining the responsibility they have for budgeting against the taxpayers.
  

Practical Steps:

• • • Develop comprehensive master plans for urban regeneration that span multiple political terms and parties.
      
    • Create implementation strategies that spans into different phases which can allow for budget allocation across different fiscal years
      
    • Establish coordination mechanisms to ensure continuity despite political changes
      
    • Implement regular community consultation processes throughout all phases of development
      

2. Public-Private Partnership Models and Resource Management

• Lesson: The political sector can successfully leverage the Pavlos Melas approach of combining public investment and private sector support.
  
• Adaptation: The partnership model of Pavlos Melas Metropolitan Park demonstrates how political authorities can optimize public resources while creating sustainable financial success, which can be an inspiration point through the following practical steps:
  

Practical Steps:

• • • Develop legal frameworks that can enable long-term public private partnerships for heritage site development.
      
    • Create transparent bidding processes for private sector involvement in public regeneration projects.
      
    • Establish revenue-sharing models that ensure public benefit while enabling private sector profitability.
      
    • Design mechanisms that maintain public control over key cultural and social functions.
      
    • Implement monitoring mechanisms to ensure private partners meet public interest.
      

3. Heritage Preservation as Political and Economic Development Strategy:

• Lesson: Political leaders can adopt the Pavlos Melas approach of treating heritage sites as strategic economic development sites, alongside environmental and economic responsibilities, rather than merely as a cultural obligation.
  
• Adaptation: This project demonstrates how authorities can create jobs, attract investment, and enhance civic pride while preserving historical identity through transformation of heritage sites. Some of the practical steps for this aim can be seen below:
  

Practical Steps:

• • • Integrate heritage preservation into economic development planning and budget allocation
      
    • Create heritage tourism strategies that generate revenue while preserving cultural authenticity
      
    • Establish heritage preservation as a measurable component of economic development indicators
      
    • Develop workforce development programs that build local capacity for heritage restoration and maintenance
      
    • Create marketing strategies that position heritage preservation as a competitive advantage for attracting investment
      

💶 Economy #

The Pavlos Melas Metropolitan Park presents a valuable case for understanding how business innovation can align with the NEB and QH models. By applying the below mentioned lessons, businesses can unlock new market opportunities, build trust with communities, and enhance long-term resilience. The following lessons showcase how private sector actors can leverage this model to create resilient, diversified business models in different heritage and cultural context:

1. Sustainable Business Models for Heritage and Cultural Sites
   

• Lesson: The project demonstrates how businesses can develop sustainable models that respect cultural heritage while generating profits through museums, refreshment facilities, conference centres, and event spaces
  
• Adaptation: Businesses can adapt the Pavlos Melas model of creating diversified revenue streams through cultural, recreational, and commercial activities within heritage sites.
  

Practical Steps:

• • • Develop business plans that integrate cultural programming with commercial activities
      
    • Create partnerships with cultural institutions to develop authentic heritage-based experiences
      
    • Design flexible spaces that can serve multiple commercial functions while respecting heritage constraints.
      
    • Establish pricing strategies that balance accessibility with revenue generation.
      

1. Environmental Sustainability as Business Competitive Advantage
   

Lesson: The project demonstrates how businesses can build capital and community support while developing sustainable solutions that will be attractive to customers

Adaptation: Businesses can adopt the Pavlos Melas approach of creating inclusive, accessible spaces that serve diverse community needs through these practical steps.

Practical Steps:

• • • Integrate renewable energy and energy-efficient technologies into business operations
      
    • Develop supply chains that prioritize local and sustainable materials.
      
    • Create marketing strategies that highlight environmental sustainability as a key value proposition
      
    • Implement waste reduction and circular economy principles in business operations
      
    • Establish environmental monitoring and reporting systems that demonstrate sustainability commitment
      

1. Community Engagement and Social Responsibility as Business Strategy
   

• Lesson: The project demonstrates how businesses can build social capital and community support while developing a customer base through community engagement.
  
• Adaptation: Businesses can adopt the Pavlos Melas approach of creating inclusive, accessible spaces that serve diverse community needs that eventually help their business goals in these practical steps:
  

Practical Steps:

• • • Develop community partnerships programs that create mutual benefits for businesses and locals.
      
    • Design inclusive business models that serve diverse socio-economic groups.
      
    • Create employment opportunities that prioritize local hiring and skills development.
      
    • Establish community feedback mechanisms that inform business decision making.
      

1. Adaptive Reuse and Circular Economy Business Models
   

• Lesson: The adaptation of existing buildings can refer to a lesson for the business sector, where other existing buildings are restored and repurposed rather than demolished.
  
• Adaptation: Businesses can apply Pavlos Melas model for adaptive reuse where existing buildings are restored and repurposed rather than demolished. Here are some of the practical steps that businesses take to adapt and implement this lesson:
  

Practical Steps:

• • • Develop expertise in adaptive reuse assessment and implementation
      
    • Create partnerships with heritage preservation specialists and sustainable design professionals
      
    • Design business models that capitalize on the unique character of repurposed spaces
      
    • Establish cost-benefit analysis frameworks that account for adaptive reuse advantages
      
    • Implement project management systems that are adaptable for heritage sites
      

1. Mixed-Use Development and Diversified Revenue Models
   

• Lesson: Businesses can adopt the lessons from Pavlos Melas of creating mixed-use developments that combine recreational, cultural, educational, and commercial functions. The project demonstrates how businesses can create resilient revenue models through diversification while serving multiple market segments simultaneously.
  
• Adaptation: The project demonstrates how businesses can create resilient revenue models through models through diversification while serving multiple market segments simultaneously. Here are some practical steps for implementation:
  

Practical Steps:

• • • Develop integrated business models that combine multiple revenue streams within single developments
      
    • Create flexible space designs that can adapt to different commercial and cultural uses
      
    • Establish partnerships with educational institutions, cultural organisations, and recreational service providers
      
    • Design customer experience strategies that encourage visitors to engage with multiple business offerings
      
    • Implement data analytics systems that optimize the performance of different components within mixed-use developments
      

Conclusion:

The Pavlos Melas case provides compelling evidence that heritage preservation, environmental sustainability, and social impact are not just ethical imperatives, but also drivers of innovative and profitable business models. By applying these lessons businesses can unlock new market opportunities, build trust with communities, and enhance long-term resilience.

🎓 Education #

The practical implementation for the social sector that can be extracted by the Pavlos Melas example provides valuable guidance on how to strengthen community bonds, promote inclusive learning, and activate civic spaces through education.

By getting inspired from local heritage sites, underutilized buildings, and environmental case studies, these initiatives demonstrate how collaboration across institutions and disciplines can revitalize neighbourhoods and inspire lifelong learning. These approaches can be adapted to other contexts to create more equitable, engaged, and sustainable communities that prioritize both cultural preservation and future-oriented education.

Here are what the educational sector can learn from this example and adapt:

1. Including Local Heritage and History in Academic Programs

• Lesson: The Pavlos Melas project demonstrates how multiple historical narratives (military heritage, Greek refugee history, archaeological findings) can coexist and be preserved within a single space to be accessible and educational for diverse audiences.
  
• Adaptation: Educational institutions can develop integrated curricula that combine archaeology, local history, heritage and migration.
  

Example Implementation: Universities can create interdisciplinary programs that use the transformed space as a living laboratory for historical, social, and environmental education. The project’s approach of preserving multiple historical narratives simultaneously can inform how educators present complex historical topics without oversimplification.

Practical Steps:

• • • Partnering with local museums and other heritage sites in the area to create curriculum-linked educational programs.
      
    • Develop teacher training workshops on using local heritage sites as an opportunity for education
      
    • Creating digital archives connecting classroom learning to physical heritage spaces
      
    • Establish student research projects that document local transformation stories
      

2. Building Strategic Partnerships Between Schools and Cultural Heritage Sites

• Lesson: Pavlos Melas project can cause a successful long-term collaboration between multiple stakeholders that can collectively create advocacy for causes with transformative results that benefit educational and cultural goals simultaneously.
  
• Adaptation: Schools and universities can become active stakeholders in urban transformation projects, contributing research, student projects, and educational programming that supports urban development while enriching academic offerings.
  

Example Implementation:

• • • More concrete agreements between heritage sites and educational institutions.
      
    • Develop joint programming that serves both educational institutions and the like “Heritage-Education Partnership” where schools take redesigned heritage sites as case studies for specialized learning experiences.
      
    • Create student internships and volunteer programs at heritage sites.
      

3. Transforming Underutilized Spaces into Creative Innovation Hubs

• Lesson: Pavlos Melas project shows how abandoned spaced can be reimagined as creative and commercial places alongside educational facilities. Inclusion of workshops and study programs in the museums can be integrated with entrepreneurial and creative activities.
  
• Adaptation: Educational institutions can reimagine underutilized spaces as innovation hubs that combine formal learning with creative entrepreneurship. Schools can develop programs that integrate business incubation, cultural programming, and traditional education within transformed physical spaces.
  • Example Implementation:
    • Develop partnerships with local entrepreneurs and creative professionals
      
    • Establish mentorship programs connecting students with local innovators and creators
      

4. Environmental Education Through Real-World Urban Transformation Projects

• Lesson: The Pavlos Melas project provides concrete examples of sustainability in action such as soil rehabilitation, air pollution, noise pollution and heat island effect reduction. The project demonstrates how environmental benefits of green buildings can be measured and communicated effectively.
  
• Adaptation: A creation of “Living Laboratory” programs where students conduct ongoing research on the environmental impacts of urban transformation projects with all effects can be discussed with all stakeholders.
  • Example Implementation:
    • Create student research partnerships with environmental scientists and urban planners
      
    • Develop data collection protocols that students can implement over multiple academic years
      
    • Connect classroom learning about sustainability to measurable outcomes in other transformation projects
      

5. Creating Sustainable Learning Opportunities for Broader Impact

• Lesson: The Pavlos Melas project demonstrates how educational facilities (museums, environmental centre) can serve both formal educational institutions and the broader public. The project shows how transformed spaces can become hubs for community learning that extends beyond just students.
  
• Adaptation: Creation of “Community Learning Networks” that use transformed heritage sites as venues for
  
• intergenerational education programs serving both students and adult learners.
  • Example Implementation: Offer continuing education credits for community members participating in heritage site programs, who wants to complete an academic program
    
  • Establish community education partnerships with local organizations and associations
    
  • Create intergenerational learning programs that pair students with community members
    

6. Strengthening Educational Institutions as Community Development Partners

• Lesson: The Pavlos Melas integrates multiple disciplines: urban planning, environmental science, history, archaeology, cultural studies and public policies. The project demonstrates how complex real-world challenges require interdisciplinary approaches.
  
• Adaptation: Educational institutions can become active partners in community development and advocacy. Schools can teach civic engagement through participation in local transformation projects, helping students understand how sustained collective action can create positive change while building stronger connections between their schools and local communities.
  • Example Implementation:
    • Create student councils that engage with local government and community organizations
      
    • Create documentation projects where students record and share community transformation stories and share online
      

7. Promoting Cross-Disciplinary Learning

• Lesson: The Pavlos Melas project integrates multiple disciplines: urban planning, environmental science, history, archaeology, cultural studies, economics, and public policy. The project demonstrates how complex real-world challenges require interdisciplinary approaches and how a single transformed space can serve multiple educational purposes simultaneously
  
• Adaptation: Educational institutions can develop integrated curricula that use transformed heritage sites as attraction points for cross-disciplinary learning. Students can study the same site from multiple academic perspectives, understanding how history, science, economics, and cultural studies intersect in real-world applications.
  

Example Implementation:

• • Develop team-teaching approaches where instructors from different disciplines collaborate on heritage site-based projects.
    
  • Create capstone projects that require students to integrate knowledge from multiple academic areas
    
  • Establish research partnerships between different academic departments focused on heritage studies
    
  • Create some tests and assessments methods where students can test themselves against the conservation methods used to create green buildings.
    

Practical Implementation of These Lessons:

1. Developing Interdisciplinary Curricula Using Local Heritage Sites:
   • 
     Integrate archaeology, history, migration, and environmental studies into unified programs that use heritage sites as living classrooms.
     
   • 
     Example: Partner with museums to create courses and student projects that explore the historical heritage of the area
     
2. Formal Partnerships Between Institutions:
   • Long-term collaborations enrich education and support cultural preservation through shared programming and student engagement.
     
   • Example: Create internship and volunteer opportunities for students at heritage sites, fostering hands-on learning and community involvement.
     
3. Transform Underused Spaces into Creative Hubs:
   • Repurpose abandoned or underutilized spaces to combine creative entrepreneurship with educational activities.
     
   • Example: Collaborate with local entrepreneurs to develop mentorship programs and incubators within these transformed spaces.
     
4. Use Green Buildings as Case Studies:
   • Engage students in ongoing environmental monitoring and research tied to real urban transformation efforts.
     
   • Example: Implement multi-year student research projects measuring air quality, noise, heat etc.
     
5. Create Community Learning Networks for Lifelong Education:
   • Extend educational opportunities beyond formal students to include intergenerational and public learning at heritage centres.
     
   • Example: Offer continuing education credits and organize programs pairing students with community members for shared learning experiences.
     
6. Conclusion:
   

The adaptive reuse plan of the Pavlos Melas Military Building can offer numerous educational opportunities that can be adapted to other places. The practical steps mentioned above provide valuable insights for the social sector on how to foster stronger community connections, encourage inclusive and lifelong learning, and activate civic spaces through interdisciplinary education.

👥 Society #

SOCIETY – Social Impact and Community Engagement

Object: The former military camp of Pavlos Melas in Thessaloniki, Greece (abandoned in 2005)
Transformation Goal: Urban regeneration into a 33-hectare metropolitan park with cultural and social functions.

Key Lessons and Adaptations:

1. Reclaiming Public Space for Civic Life
   Lesson: The transformation activates underutilized land into inclusive public space that fosters social cohesion.
   
   Adaptation: Urban regeneration projects can prioritize shared community space as a tool for democratic participation and inclusion.
   
   Practical Steps:
   • Develop participatory planning processes with residents.
     
   • Create public areas for festivals, gatherings, and social events.
     
   • Ensure physical and digital accessibility for all age and ability groups.
     
2. Inclusive Place-Making with Historical Identity
   Lesson: The site integrates military, refugee, and local histories in a shared narrative.
   
   Adaptation: Social initiatives can preserve diverse community memories through inclusive heritage storytelling.
   
   Practical Steps:
   • Co-curate exhibitions with local communities.
     
   • Create multilingual signage and memory walks.
     
   • Support oral history projects involving older generations.
     
3. Empowerment Through Participatory Governance
   Lesson: Collaboration between governmental bodies and local communities helps build trust.
   
   Adaptation: Encourage models of co-management of public spaces.
   
   Practical Steps:
   • Establish citizen advisory councils for ongoing decision-making.
     
   • Pilot “shared maintenance” agreements between municipality and neighborhood groups.
     
4. Social Innovation Hubs for Local Communities
   Lesson: By combining museums, civic institutions, and open spaces, the site becomes a multi-use civic node.
   
   Adaptation: Social initiatives can cluster services (education, culture, support) in shared, low-barrier access locations.
   
   Practical Steps:
   • Create intergenerational learning and care centers.
     
   • Include free public Wi-Fi and informal learning zones.
     
   • Use buildings for both administrative and social innovation purposes.
     
5. Community Wellbeing Through Green and Cultural Space
   Lesson: The emphasis on ecology, history, and access fosters a sense of belonging.
   
   Adaptation: Wellbeing can be promoted through emotional, historical, and natural connections to space.
   
   Practical Steps:
   • Design spaces that support mental health (quiet zones, walking paths).
     
   • Provide free recreational programming (yoga, art therapy).
     
   • Integrate community gardens and wellness initiatives.
     

🌍 Environment #

ENVIRONMENT – Ecological Restoration and Sustainable Urbanism

Object: The former military camp of Pavlos Melas in Thessaloniki, Greece
Transformation Goal: Regeneration into a multifunctional green space prioritizing ecology and sustainability.

Key Lessons and Adaptations:

1. Ecological Restoration of Urban Gaps
   Lesson: The project turns sealed military land into breathable, green ecosystems.
   
   Adaptation: Degraded urban zones can be rewilded to improve biodiversity and environmental health.
   
   Practical Steps:
   • Use native species for replanting.
     
   • Remove sealed surfaces to increase soil permeability.
     
   • Create natural water retention areas.
     
2. Green Infrastructure for Climate Resilience
   Lesson: The park mitigates heat islands, reduces air and noise pollution, and improves microclimates.
   
   Adaptation: Urban design must integrate green buffers and vegetation as key infrastructure.
   
   Practical Steps:
   • Design shaded pedestrian routes.
     
   • Plant trees strategically to reduce energy use in buildings.
     
   • Measure air and temperature changes over time.
     
3. Sustainability as Educational Opportunity
   Lesson: Environmental restoration is visible and measurable—ideal for learning.
   
   Adaptation: Parks can serve as open-air classrooms for climate action and environmental science.
   
   Practical Steps:
   • Install learning signage about biodiversity and restoration methods.
     
   • Facilitate school partnerships for long-term environmental monitoring.
     
   • Host community science events (e.g., bioblitzes, eco-workshops).
     
4. Circular Economy in Construction and Maintenance
   Lesson: The reuse of materials and structures minimizes waste.
   
   Adaptation: Urban green projects can model zero-waste and low-carbon approaches.
   
   Practical Steps:
   • Use recycled building materials in construction.
     
   • Design maintenance systems based on composting and local reuse.
     
   • Apply life-cycle analysis to all infrastructure decisions.
     
5. Integration of Cultural and Environmental Assets
   Lesson: The design treats natural and cultural heritage as equally valuable.
   
   Adaptation: Projects can combine cultural storytelling with nature-based solutions.
   
   Practical Steps:
   • Create heritage trails that pass through ecological zones.
     
   • Develop programs that link local legends, plants, and place identity.
     
   • Support conservation practices aligned with local traditions.
     

GP4 Title: Holzmarkt 25 – Sustainable Urban Village in Berlin #

📍 Location: Berlin, Germany

🔗 Link: https://www.holzmarkt.com/en Google 14.7.2025
🔗 Link: https://youtu.be/VG0Magol5Uk Video Youtube Holzmarkt 15.7.2025

Context #

Holzmarkt 25 is a cooperative urban village integrating modular timber housing, co-working, and cultural spaces, all developed sustainably by the community.

Learning Objectives #

• 
  Study cooperative urban design models.
  
• 
  Understand timber modular construction.
  
• 
  Analyze NEB in sustainable regeneration.
  

Session Plan #

• 
  Intro: Cooperative urbanism (15 mins)
  
• 
  Case review: Holzmarkt 25 (30 mins)
  
• 
  Workshop: Urban village planning (45 mins)
  
• 
  Group feedback and scaling (30 mins)
  

✅ What Sectors can learn (QHM-Oriented) #

1. Holzmarkt 25 – Berlin, Germany

🌱 ENVIRONMENT #

Topic 1. Modular timber design minimizes ecological footprint through renewable materials.

Lesson: Holzmarkt 25 uses prefabricated timber units and sustainable construction practices.
→ Adaptation: Promote use of regionally sourced timber and modular systems to reduce CO₂ emissions.
→ Example Implementation: Schools or community buildings can adopt timber modules for faster, cleaner construction.
→ Practical Step: Identify local suppliers and modular systems compliant with ecological standards.

Topic 2. Closed-loop infrastructure supports urban ecological resilience.

Lesson: Holzmarkt 25 includes composting toilets, greywater systems, and circular material use.
→ Adaptation: Design buildings with decentralised systems for water and waste management.
→ Example Implementation: Install pilot greywater and composting systems in public or shared housing.
→ Practical Step: Conduct environmental audits and stakeholder consultations to identify closed-loop opportunities.

🤝 SOCIETY #

Topic 3. Grassroots planning empowers community-led development.

Lesson: The village emerged from bottom-up initiatives emphasizing collaboration and co-ownership.
→ Adaptation: Support community assemblies and participatory design for inclusive urban regeneration.
→ Example Implementation: Use citizen forums to co-create local development visions.
→ Practical Step: Facilitate mapping of social needs and assets with resident groups.

Topic 4. Cultural diversity strengthens social cohesion and public space activation.

Lesson: Holzmarkt 25 hosts diverse cultural events, promoting inclusivity and interaction.
→ Adaptation: Integrate multicultural programming into green public spaces to foster belonging.
→ Example Implementation: Plan monthly community events in parks or renovated buildings.
→ Practical Step: Partner with local artists and organizations to co-create event calendars.

🏛 POLITICS #

Topic 5. Flexible zoning enables experimentation in sustainable urban living.

Lesson: Holzmarkt 25 was enabled by special zoning and land-use agreements.
→ Adaptation: Encourage municipalities to develop adaptive zoning frameworks for mixed-use regeneration.
→ Example Implementation: Pilot zoning overlays for eco-villages or circular hubs.
→ Practical Step: Initiate dialogue with city planners to identify underused land parcels for flexible development.

Topic 6. Long-term land access secures community investment.

Lesson: A cooperative land trust ensures the site remains dedicated to public benefit.
→ Adaptation: Promote cooperative land ownership models to protect regenerative projects.
→ Example Implementation: Form land trusts or public-private partnerships for green projects.
→ Practical Step: Explore legal frameworks and funding tools for community-owned land models.

💶 ECONOMY #

Topic 7. Integrated circular business models support local economies.

Lesson: Holzmarkt 25 integrates housing, food, crafts, and services in one ecosystem.
→ Adaptation: Design mixed-use developments that include circular business spaces.
→ Example Implementation: Allocate space for social enterprises and local food systems within green buildings.
→ Practical Step: Map circular value chains and partner with local entrepreneurs.

Topic 8. Affordability through community finance enables inclusive access.

Lesson: The cooperative model reduces reliance on profit-driven development.
→ Adaptation: Enable shared equity or cooperative housing to ensure affordability.
→ Example Implementation: Develop housing cooperatives linked to community investment funds.
→ Practical Step: Set up workshops on community finance models and facilitate stakeholder buy-in.

📚 EDUCATION #

Topic 9. Informal education activates learning through space and practice.

Lesson: Holzmarkt 25 offers guided tours, maker spaces, and public workshops.
→ Adaptation: Use green buildings as learning environments for sustainability education.
→ Example Implementation: Integrate hands-on workshops into the lifecycle of public construction projects.
→ Practical Step: Develop educational modules tied to real-world building processes and eco-design.

Topic 10. Scalable education formats engage diverse learners.

Lesson: Events and exhibitions at Holzmarkt 25 reach varied age and interest groups.
→ Adaptation: Design flexible learning formats—pop-ups, mobile exhibitions, games—for green awareness.
→ Example Implementation: Use traveling exhibitions or urban pop-ups to spread regenerative design ideas.
→ Practical Step: Co-design interactive learning formats with schools, NGOs, or youth organizations.

GP5 Title: Nova Iskra, the first creative hub in the Balkans – Serbia #

📍 Location: Belgrad, Serbia

Introduction and Context #

What is Nova Iskra

Nova Iskra is the first creative hub in the Balkans, founded on December 6, 2012, in Belgrade, Serbia[1][2]. The organization was established with a mission to design spaces and experiences that connect creative industries, technology, and people, enabling individuals, organizations, and businesses to work, learn, innovate, and create together.

As a pioneering initiative in Southeast Europe, Nova Iskra operates as a hybrid, transdisciplinary platform that bridges the creative community with potential businesses and supports the realization of their ideas in the market[3]. The organization encompasses three main operational areas: Nova Iskra Workspace (coworking spaces), Nova Iskra Programs & Education (informal learning initiatives), and Nova Iskra Studio (design and project management services).

The founding team consists primarily of professionals from cultural management and creative sectors who identified the need for quality workspace, technical resources, and practical education for emerging creative professionals. Since its inception, Nova Iskra has realized over 300 free educational programs and professional consultations while initiating numerous projects in social entrepreneurship and creative business[4].

Current Locations and Addresses #

Nova Iskra currently operates three distinct coworking locations across Belgrade:

1. Savamala Location (Original Hub) #

Address: Gavrila Principa 43, Belgrade[5][6][7]

This is the original and flagship location where Nova Iskra first opened its doors in December 2012[8][9]. Located in the vibrant Savamala district, this space serves as the main creative hub and houses the Green Lab urban garden project[10]. The location offers 120 working stations, a rooftop terrace, game room, and various amenities including meeting rooms, kitchen facilities, and communal areas[11][12].

2. Zemun Location #

Address: Oračka 4, Zemun, Belgrade[13][14]

The second coworking space opened in Zemun, a neighbourhood rich in history and beautiful old buildings[15]. This location spans 1,100 m² and was designed by architectural studio Petokraka, completing construction in 2018[16]. The space features modern offices, workstations, a rooftop terrace with city views, meeting rooms, and recreational areas including a game zone[17][18].

3. Dorćol Location #

Address: Cara Uroša 18, Upper Dorćol district, Belgrade[19]

The third and newest location officially opened in September 2019 as part of Nova Iskra’s partnership with Rent24, an international coworking network. This location spans over 1,200 m² and accommodates a community of 130 people, featuring multiple levels with conference rooms, private offices, relaxation areas, a rooftop terrace, and a unique urban garden in the reception area. Notably, this became the first coworking space in Belgrade to include an accompanying restaurant and bar.

Origins: What These Locations Were Before Nova Iskra #

Savamala Original Space (Gavrila Principa 43) #

The original Nova Iskra location was previously a “rundown office space of 350 sqm” that required complete reconstruction and refurbishing[20][21]. The space underwent extensive renovation by Belgrade-based architecture studio Petokraka, involving the removal of walls, opening of additional windows, and installation of new industrial flooring to create an illuminated open-space effect[22]. The transformation took more than two years of preparation before the official opening in December 2012.

Green Lab Area #

Within the Savamala location, the Green Lab represents a particularly significant transformation. This 250 m² multifunctional outdoor space was previously just “the roof of a nearby object and uncultivated piece of land overgrown with weeds”. Through collaboration with NIS (oil company) under their “Together for the Community” program and the Belgrade Festival of Flowers, this neglected area was transformed into an educational and ecological oasis featuring over 50 plant species.

Zemun and Dorćol Locations #

While specific details about the previous use of the Zemun (Oračka 4) and Dorćol (Cara Uroša 18) locations are not extensively documented in available sources, both spaces underwent significant architectural renovation by studio Petokraka to create modern, light-filled coworking environments[23][24]. The Zemun location was completed in 2018 and won the BIG SEE Interior Design Award in 2021 for its innovative design that contrasts clean lighting with brick walls and raw concrete ceilings.

Organizational Evolution and Expansion #

Nova Iskra’s growth from a single location to three major coworking hubs reflects its successful model of combining workspace provision with community building and educational programming[25]. The organization started with 18 work units in 2012 and expanded to 56 working units by 2018 in the original Savamala location alone. This expansion was supported by partnerships with international companies like UK-based Arbor Education Partners and later with the global coworking provider Rent24[26].

The organization has established itself as a key player in the European Creative Hubs Network and maintains partnerships with similar organizations across Europe and internationally, positioning Nova Iskra as a significant contributor to the Southeast European creative industries ecosystem[27][28].

Nova Iskra Case Study #

Development within the Quintuple Helix Model (QHM) and New European Bauhaus (NEB) Principles

Nova Iskra is a leading creative and educational hub in Serbia, recognized for its innovative approach to sustainable urban transformation, community engagement, and cross-sectoral collaboration. Its flagship project, the Green Lab, exemplifies how underutilized urban spaces can be reimagined as vibrant centres for ecological learning and social innovation, aligning closely with both the New European Bauhaus (NEB) principles and the Quintuple Helix Model (QHM).

Nova Iskra: Organizational Overview #

• Mission: To foster creativity, sustainability, and community-driven innovation through coworking spaces, educational programs, and collaborative projects.
  
• Locations: Three major hubs in Belgrade—Savamala (original site and Green Lab), Zemun, and Dorćol, each created through adaptive reuse of neglected or industrial spaces.
  
• Core Activities: Coworking, educational initiatives, design and technology research, and community events, all aimed at building human and social capital.
  

The Green Lab: Flagship Example #

Project Description #

The Green Lab, located at Nova Iskra’s Savamala site, is Belgrade’s first urban garden and open-air classroom dedicated to sustainable development. Covering 250 m², it was transformed from an overgrown, unused rooftop and adjacent land into a multifunctional ecological oasis. The Green Lab is used for educational programs, workshops, and community events focused on green economy, sustainable urban living, and biodiversity.

• Transformation: From neglected rooftop and land to a thriving urban garden.
  
• Key Features: Over 50 plant species, sustainable waste management, alternative energy sources, and participatory design with local partners.
  
• Stakeholders: Nova Iskra, NIS (corporate partner), Belgrade Festival of Flowers, local residents, and a wide network of experts and organizations.
  

Focus on the Green Lab: Rationale and Significance #

Among Nova Iskra’s initiatives, the Green Lab at the Savamala location stands out as a flagship example of sustainable urban transformation and educational innovation. The Green Lab is a 250 m² multifunctional outdoor space, created by converting a previously unused rooftop and overgrown land into a thriving urban garden and open-air classroom.

Why Focus on the Green Lab?

• Model of Urban Sustainability: The Green Lab demonstrates how neglected urban infrastructure can be repurposed for ecological, social, and educational benefits. It incorporates sustainable design principles, biodiversity, and resource-efficient systems.
  
• Educational Innovation: Serving as an outdoor classroom, the Green Lab hosts workshops, lectures, and community events focused on green skills, sustainable development, and environmental awareness.
  
• Community Engagement: The project actively involves local residents, businesses, and organizations in the design, maintenance, and programming of the space, fostering a sense of ownership and inclusion.
  
• Alignment with NEB and BeCom Goals: The Green Lab embodies the core principles of the New European Bauhaus – sustainability, aesthetics, and inclusion, while serving as a practical case for the BeCom project’s Green Buildings Learning Portfolio.
  

Reasons for Elaborating the Green Lab

• Replicability: The Green Lab provides a concrete, documented model that can be adapted and implemented in other urban contexts, making it highly relevant for educational and knowledge transfer purposes.
  
• Cross-Sectoral Impact: Its development and operation engage multiple sectors (environmental, social, political, economic, educational), aligning with the Quintuple Helix Model and offering rich insights for each.
  
• Demonstrated Outcomes: The Green Lab’s success is evidenced by increased community participation, improved urban biodiversity, and the creation of new educational resources.
  

Given these strengths, the Green Lab will be the primary focus for detailed analysis and resource development within the Green Buildings Learning Portfolio. Its story offers valuable lessons and practical steps for other communities seeking to integrate NEB principles and sustainable practices into their urban environments.

NEB Principles in Practice #

The New European Bauhaus (NEB) initiative is anchored in three core values: Sustainability, Aesthetics, and Inclusion, which serve as guiding principles for transforming urban spaces and fostering community well-being. Nova Iskra’s Green Lab is a living example of how these principles can be realized in practice, providing a replicable model for sustainable urban development and social innovation.

Sustainability

• Urban Biodiversity: The Green Lab incorporates more than 50 native and adapted plant species, creating habitats for pollinators and urban wildlife. This biodiversity enriches the local ecosystem and supports ecological resilience.
  
• Green Infrastructure: By converting a neglected rooftop and overgrown land into a productive green space, the project helps mitigate the urban heat island effect, improves air quality, and manages rainwater runoff through permeable surfaces and strategic planting.
  
• Resource Efficiency: Sustainable waste management practices, including composting and recycling, are integrated into the site. Landscaping is designed to minimize water and energy use, with drought-tolerant species and efficient irrigation methods.
  
• Renewable Energy: The Green Lab utilizes solar-powered lighting and energy-efficient infrastructure, reducing its carbon footprint and serving as a demonstration site for renewable energy in urban settings.
  
• Nature-Based Solutions: The design emphasizes natural processes such as soil regeneration and plant succession, ensuring the long-term health and adaptability of the space.
  

Aesthetics

• Creative Landscape Design: The transformation of a previously neglected area into a lush, vibrant garden highlights the power of thoughtful design. The spatial arrangement, selection of plants, and use of natural materials create a harmonious and inviting environment.
  
• Transformation of Neglected Space: The adaptive reuse of underutilized urban land demonstrates the potential to turn liabilities into community assets. The contrast between greenery and the surrounding urban fabric creates a visually striking and inspiring setting.
  
• Visual and Sensory Appeal: The garden offers a rich sensory experience, with changes in colour, texture, and fragrance throughout the seasons. Spaces for relaxation and social interaction are integrated, encouraging visitors to linger and engage.
  
• Cultural Expression: Artistic elements, such as murals and installations, and references to local design traditions reinforce the site’s identity and connect it to Belgrade’s cultural heritage.
  

Inclusion

• Open Workshops and Events: The Green Lab regularly hosts free educational programs, gardening workshops, and cultural events, inviting participation from residents of all ages and backgrounds.
  
• Participatory Design: Community members were actively involved in the planning and design of the space, ensuring that it reflects local needs and aspirations.
  
• Community Stewardship: Maintenance and programming are carried out collaboratively, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility among participants.
  
• Accessibility: The site is designed to be physically accessible, with barrier-free pathways and inclusive signage, making it welcoming to everyone.
  
• Social Cohesion: By serving as a gathering place for diverse groups, the Green Lab encourages dialogue, cooperation, and the building of social capital.
  

Summary Table: NEB Principles at Nova Iskra Green Lab

NEB Principle	How It Is Demonstrated at Green Lab
Sustainability	Urban biodiversity, green infrastructure, renewable energy, waste reduction
Aesthetics	Creative landscape design, transformation of neglected space, visual appeal
Inclusion	Open workshops, participatory design, community stewardship, accessibility

The Green Lab at Nova Iskra demonstrates how the New European Bauhaus (NEB) principles of Sustainability, Aesthetics, and Inclusion can be operationalized in a real urban context. By embedding these values into every aspect of its design, programming, and community engagement, the Green Lab not only addresses environmental and social challenges but also creates a space that is meaningful, beautiful, and accessible to all. This holistic approach is at the heart of the NEB movement, which seeks to ensure that the green transition is not only technically effective but also culturally resonant and socially equitable.

In the next section, we will examine how the Green Lab’s development and ongoing activities align with the Quintuple Helix Model (QHM), a framework that emphasizes innovation through collaboration among the environment, society, politics, economy, and education sectors.

✅ What the sector can learn: Green Lab Nova Iskra (QHM-Oriented)

🌍 Environment #

– Green Infrastructure and Urban Ecology

Object: The Green Lab at Nova Iskra, Belgrade, Serbia
Transformation Goal: Reclaiming an unused rooftop and adjacent land into a sustainable and biodiverse green space

Key Lessons and Adaptations:

1. Urban Biodiversity through Regeneration
   
   Lesson: Over 50 plant species were introduced, enhancing ecological diversity.
   
   Adaptation: Urban spaces can be rewilded to support pollinators and microhabitats.
   
2. Climate Resilience through Green Infrastructure
   
   Lesson: The space mitigates heat islands, absorbs rainwater, and improves air quality.
   
   Adaptation: Green elements should be integrated into urban design to buffer environmental impacts.
   
3. Low-Impact, Nature-Based Design
   
   Lesson: Use of natural processes like composting, passive watering, and solar energy.
   
   Adaptation: Projects should favour low-energy and regenerative practices.
   

Practical Steps:

• 
  Design using native species and low-maintenance soil systems
  
• 
  Install solar lighting and compost units
  
• 
  Monitor ecological indicators (air, temperature, biodiversity)
  

👥 Society #

– Community Engagement and Social Innovation

Object: The Green Lab as a civic space and learning garden
Transformation Goal: Enabling community ownership and inclusive participation in urban regeneration

Key Lessons and Adaptations:

1. Inclusive Use of Urban Commons
   
   Lesson: The Lab operates as a non-commercial public space, open to all.
   
   Adaptation: Civic spaces should be multi-use, free, and co-managed.
   
2. Participatory Design as Social Bonding
   
   Lesson: Local actors were involved from planning to stewardship.
   
   Adaptation: Co-creation strengthens legitimacy and social capital.
   
3. Shared Governance and Stewardship
   
   Lesson: Community groups maintain and activate the space regularly.
   
   Adaptation: Encourage long-term civic engagement beyond project launch.
   

Practical Steps:

• 
  Facilitate co-design workshops and public programming
  
• 
  Build neighbourhood stewardship groups
  
• 
  Make access universal (barrier-free design, multi-language communication)
  

🏛️ Politics #

– Governance and Urban Policy

Object: The Green Lab as a public-private-community partnership
Transformation Goal: Demonstrating inclusive governance and influencing urban green policies

Key Lessons and Adaptations:

1. Collaborative Urban Governance
   
   Lesson: The Lab was realized through cooperation with city actors, companies, and civic groups.
   
   Adaptation: Governance should be shared and participatory from the outset.
   
2. Policy Advocacy through Demonstration
   
   Lesson: The Lab served as a pilot for integrating green spaces in dense urban zones.
   
   Adaptation: Physical projects can inform and shape regulatory frameworks.
   
3. Multilevel Stakeholder Involvement
   
   Lesson: The initiative bridged city administration, corporate sponsors, and NGOs.
   
   Adaptation: Align actors with different mandates through clear common goals.
   

Practical Steps:

• 
  Establish a stakeholder council across sectors
  
• 
  Document policy outcomes and share with decision-makers
  
• 
  Use the space as a venue for policy dialogue and participatory planning
  

💶 Economy #

– Green Entrepreneurship and Creative Industry

Object: Green Lab as a hybrid of green infrastructure and cultural programming
Transformation Goal: Promoting eco-social business models within creative urban environments

Key Lessons and Adaptations:

1. Public-Private Synergies for Impact
   
   Lesson: Sponsored by NIS and supported by festivals and creative businesses
   
   Adaptation: Encourage co-financing models that include social and environmental returns.
   
2. Green Economy Activation
   
   Lesson: Events and activities promote eco-conscious products and services.
   
   Adaptation: Green buildings can incubate sustainable business initiatives.
   
3. Cultural-Economic Hybrid Models
   
   Lesson: The space fuses coworking, ecology, and design culture.
   
   Adaptation: Combine creative and ecological value creation in one space.
   

Practical Steps:

• 
  Create business cases around circular economy in urban renewal
  
• 
  Develop flexible-use zones (pop-up shops, eco-markets)
  
• 
  Foster partnerships with sustainable entrepreneurs
  

🎓 Education #

– Learning, Research, and Knowledge Transfer

Object: Green Lab as an outdoor classroom and educational resource
Transformation Goal: Fostering green skills, interdisciplinary learning, and community education

Key Lessons and Adaptations:

1. Learning by Doing in Real Contexts
   
   Lesson: The Lab provides hands-on learning about sustainability and urban ecology.
   
   Adaptation: Educational programs should embed learners in real transformation spaces.
   
2. Cross-Sectoral Educational Partnerships
   
   Lesson: The Lab collaborated with schools, experts, and civil society.
   
   Adaptation: Build interinstitutional links for project-based learning.
   
3. Knowledge Sharing for Replicability
   
   Lesson: Methods and resources were shared for uptake elsewhere.
   
   Adaptation: Create educational materials that allow for scalable application.
   

Practical Steps:

• 
  Design modular curricula for outdoor green learning
  
• 
  Host co-teaching events with practitioners and educators
  
• 
  Build online documentation and toolkits for other regions
  

GP Title: The Zollverein Coal Mine Complex – Germany #

📍 Location: Essen, Germany

Introduction #

The Zollverein Coal Mine in Essen, Germany, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has been transformed into a vibrant cultural and creative hub. The adaptive reuse of industrial architecture promotes cultural heritage preservation while integrating modern functions like museums, art spaces, and educational centers.

NEB Principles:

• Sustainability: Preserving existing structures instead of demolishing and rebuilding, minimizing waste.
  
• Aesthetics: Maintaining industrial aesthetics while incorporating contemporary design elements.
  
• Inclusion: Fostering a sense of place by preserving historical identity and welcoming diverse cultural expressions.
  

🎓 Education #

What the educational sector can learn and could be adapted to other places

1. Integration of Cultural and Historical Education into Curricula

• Lesson: Zollverein is not only a heritage site but also an educational resource, offering opportunities for learning about industrial history, architecture, sustainability, and creative industries.
  
• Adaptation: Educational institutions can integrate local heritage sites into their curricula as living classrooms, helping students connect theory with real-world applications.
  
• Example Implementation: Universities and schools can create partnerships with heritage sites to offer students hands-on learning experiences in fields like history, architecture, sustainability, and urban planning. Internships, field studies, or projects can be organized around adaptive reuse and heritage preservation.
  

2. Collaboration between Educational Institutions and Heritage Sites

• Lesson: Zollverein hosts a variety of educational programs, including workshops, exhibitions, and seminars on sustainability, design, and industrial heritage.
  
• Adaptation: Schools and universities can collaborate with adaptive reuse projects to create joint programs, research projects, or specialized courses.
  
• Example Implementation: Establish interdisciplinary programs where architecture students, environmental science students, and history students work together to research and design sustainable reuse strategies for industrial sites. Heritage conservation schools could use these sites for practical training in preservation techniques and adaptive reuse strategies.
  

3. Fostering Innovation and Creativity in Educational Spaces

• Lesson: Zollverein’s transformation includes creative hubs that provide spaces for innovation, fostering a connection between the past and the future.
  
• Adaptation: Educational institutions can develop creative spaces that not only focus on traditional learning but also encourage entrepreneurship, creativity, and innovation in fields such as design, technology, and environmental studies.
  
• Example Implementation: Design schools, engineering programs, and innovation labs could be housed in repurposed industrial buildings, offering a mix of practical workspaces, maker spaces, and creative environments that encourage hands-on experimentation.
  

4. Teaching Sustainability through Practical Examples

• Lesson: Zollverein incorporates sustainable practices into its adaptive reuse, from green architecture to energy-efficient technologies, offering a model for sustainable urban planning.
  
• Adaptation: Educational institutions can use adaptive reuse projects as real-world examples to teach sustainability, demonstrating how historic buildings can be repurposed with minimal environmental impact.
  
• Example Implementation: Environmental and urban studies programs could use Zollverein or similar sites as case studies for sustainable development, focusing on the reduction of waste, energy consumption, and carbon emissions through adaptive reuse. Students could learn about passive heating, green roofs, and other eco-friendly building practices.
  

5. Lifelong Learning and Public Engagement

• Lesson: Zollverein offers educational programs that are accessible to people of all ages, including workshops, seminars, and educational exhibitions that teach about industrial history, culture, and sustainability.
  
• Adaptation: Educational programs should cater not only to students but also to the general public, promoting lifelong learning. Adaptive reuse projects can become hubs for informal education, where people of all ages can engage with the history of a place, its cultural significance, and modern-day relevance.
  
• Example Implementation: Develop adult education programs, evening courses, and public workshops that focus on heritage, sustainability, and urban development. Community members could attend lectures or participate in practical workshops related to architecture, art conservation, or local history.
  

6. Connecting Education to the Local Community

• Lesson: Zollverein has become a focal point for the local community, with educational initiatives closely tied to the region’s cultural and economic revitalization.
  
• Adaptation: Educational institutions can engage with their local communities by involving them in heritage preservation and adaptive reuse projects, helping students build connections between their academic learning and real-world challenges.
  
• Example Implementation: Schools and universities could offer community outreach programs that encourage local residents to participate in educational workshops, site tours, or heritage restoration projects. Local schools can also be involved in historical research projects about the site’s industrial past and its impact on the community.
  

7. Promoting Cross-Disciplinary Learning

• Lesson: Zollverein encourages cross-disciplinary collaboration, bringing together fields such as art, architecture, environmental science, and history.
  
• Adaptation: Educational institutions can foster a cross-disciplinary approach to learning, where students from diverse fields work together on projects that address complex, real-world problems.
  
• Example Implementation: Organize joint projects between architecture students, environmental science students, and art/design students. These projects could focus on repurposing a heritage site, allowing students to approach the same problem from different perspectives and contribute unique solutions.
  

Practical Implementation of These Lessons:

1. Curriculum Development:
   • 
     Develop new courses or modules based on adaptive reuse, sustainability, and cultural heritage. Integrate these subjects into architecture, design, environmental science, and history programs.
     
   • 
     Example: A course on “Sustainable Heritage Preservation” could focus on best practices in adaptive reuse using Zollverein as a case study.
     
2. Workshops and Collaborative Research:
   • 
     Organize workshops where students from various disciplines (architecture, history, environmental science) work together on proposals for adaptive reuse of local industrial heritage sites.
     
   • 
     Example: A workshop on “Urban Regeneration and Adaptive Reuse” where students conduct site analyses and propose solutions for transforming a former factory into a cultural hub.
     
3. Public Programs:
   • 
     Create public programs that invite local communities and schools to participate in educational tours, lectures, or hands-on workshops at adaptive reuse sites.
     
   • 
     Example: Organize a “History of Industry” summer camp for children or a series of public lectures on sustainable urban development at a nearby adaptive reuse site.
     
4. Research Centers:
   • 
     Establish research centers focused on the intersection of architecture, sustainability, and industrial heritage preservation, allowing students and faculty to engage in long-term studies and collaborations with local heritage sites.
     
   • 
     Example: A “Heritage & Sustainability” research lab that collaborates with local governments and private companies to study the environmental impacts of adaptive reuse and develop best practices.
     
5. Virtual Learning Platforms:
   • 
     Use digital platforms to provide virtual tours, interactive lessons, and documentary-style videos that teach the process of adaptive reuse and its educational value.
     
   • 
     Example: A virtual exhibition documenting Zollverein’s transformation, accessible to students worldwide, with educational materials about the history and impact of industrial heritage.
     

Conclusion:

The adaptive reuse of the Zollverein Coal Mine Complex offers numerous educational opportunities that can be adapted to other places. By using such sites as living labs for teaching, fostering interdisciplinary learning, and engaging local communities, educational institutions can create dynamic, real-world learning environments that prepare students for future challenges while promoting cultural heritage and sustainability.

🌍 Environment #

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zollverein_Coal_Mine_Industrial_Complex

about the example Adaptive Reuse of Industrial Heritage: The Zollverein Coal Mine Complex (Germany) what the environment sector can learn and could be adapted to other places

The adaptive reuse of the Zollverein Coal Mine Complex offers the environmental sector valuable lessons on sustainable development, energy efficiency, and eco-friendly urban regeneration. By studying Zollverein’s transformation, the environmental sector can identify strategies for minimizing environmental impact while preserving cultural heritage. Here are some key takeaways and how they can be adapted to other places:

1. Sustainable Building Practices

• Lesson: Zollverein’s transformation incorporated sustainable design principles, such as energy-efficient renovations, eco-friendly materials, and green technologies. For example, retrofitting the site with modern insulation and renewable energy solutions helped reduce its carbon footprint while preserving the historical character of the buildings.
  
• Adaptation: The environmental sector can learn how adaptive reuse projects can prioritize sustainability through energy-efficient renovations and green design practices, reducing the environmental impact of new construction.
  
• Example Implementation: Adaptive reuse projects in other places can integrate sustainable building techniques such as passive house design (which minimizes heating needs), energy-efficient lighting, solar panels, and natural ventilation systems.
  
• Practical Steps:
  • 
    Use low-carbon and sustainable materials such as reclaimed wood, recycled steel, or locally sourced stone for building upgrades.
    
  • 
    Retrofit existing buildings with energy-efficient heating, cooling, and insulation systems to reduce energy consumption.
    
  • 
    Install renewable energy systems, such as solar panels or wind turbines, to power the site sustainably.
    

2. Reducing Waste through Adaptive Reuse

• Lesson: Zollverein is a prime example of how adaptive reuse minimizes construction waste by repurposing existing structures rather than demolishing them and starting from scratch. This helps avoid the environmental costs associated with demolition and new construction.
  
• Adaptation: The environmental sector can apply these lessons to reduce construction-related waste by prioritizing adaptive reuse over demolition, leading to fewer materials going to landfills and a reduction in overall resource consumption.
  
• Example Implementation: In other places, urban planners can advocate for the reuse of existing industrial or commercial buildings rather than demolishing them to make way for new developments.
  
• Practical Steps:
  • 
    Prioritize adaptive reuse in planning policies to ensure that existing buildings are repurposed rather than demolished.
    
  • 
    Conduct thorough assessments of building materials to see what can be salvaged and reused in the new development, such as bricks, steel, and timber.
    
  • 
    Implement waste reduction strategies during the renovation process, such as recycling materials and using modular construction techniques that reduce material waste.
    

3. Promoting Green Spaces and Biodiversity

• Lesson: Zollverein incorporated green spaces within its complex, which not only provided aesthetic and recreational value but also helped promote biodiversity in an urban setting. Green roofs, urban gardens, and open spaces contribute to mitigating the environmental impact of industrial zones.
  
• Adaptation: The environmental sector can promote the integration of green spaces into adaptive reuse projects to enhance biodiversity, improve air quality, and provide natural habitats for wildlife in urban areas.
  
• Example Implementation: Future adaptive reuse projects can incorporate urban parks, green roofs, and vertical gardens to enhance biodiversity and contribute to a healthier urban environment.
  
• Practical Steps:
  • 
    Transform former industrial areas into green parks, community gardens, or nature reserves that support local wildlife and improve air quality.
    
  • 
    Create green roofs or plant trees and shrubs around the adaptive reuse site to combat the urban heat island effect and increase biodiversity.
    
  • 
    Integrate water management strategies such as rainwater harvesting and permeable pavements to reduce runoff and conserve water resources.
    

4. Enhancing Sustainable Mobility and Transportation

• Lesson: Zollverein’s redevelopment emphasized creating a sustainable mobility plan. The complex is well-connected by public transportation, which encourages the use of low-emission and energy-efficient modes of transport.
  
• Adaptation: The environmental sector can learn how to integrate sustainable transport solutions into adaptive reuse projects, reducing the carbon footprint of the site and promoting eco-friendly transportation options.
  
• Example Implementation: In other places, adaptive reuse projects can be located near public transportation hubs or designed to include bike-sharing programs, pedestrian walkways, and electric vehicle (EV) charging stations to encourage sustainable mobility.
  
• Practical Steps:
  • 
    Provide infrastructure for sustainable transportation options, such as bicycle racks, EV charging stations, and pedestrian-friendly walkways.
    
  • 
    Ensure that adaptive reuse sites are easily accessible by public transport, reducing the reliance on private cars.
    
  • 
    Promote car-sharing programs or shuttle buses that connect the site to nearby transit hubs, reducing traffic congestion and pollution.
    

5. Environmental Education and Awareness

• Lesson: Zollverein has become a platform for educating the public about sustainability and the environment, hosting exhibits and workshops that focus on green technologies, the importance of preserving heritage, and the role of the built environment in climate change mitigation.
  
• Adaptation: The environmental sector can use adaptive reuse projects as platforms for environmental education, helping to raise public awareness about sustainability, climate change, and the role of heritage in environmental conservation.
  
• Example Implementation: Other adaptive reuse sites can incorporate educational spaces dedicated to environmental awareness and climate action, including museums, interactive exhibits, and workshops on sustainability.
  
• Practical Steps:
  • 
    Develop an educational program or exhibition that teaches visitors about the environmental benefits of adaptive reuse and the specific green features of the site.
    
  • 
    Host public workshops on topics such as sustainable construction, energy efficiency, or reducing carbon footprints.
    
  • 
    Use the site as a living example of sustainable design, showcasing practical applications of green technologies and building techniques.
    

6. Carbon Footprint Reduction and Energy Efficiency

• Lesson: Zollverein’s redevelopment involved significant efforts to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. The use of modern insulation, energy-efficient systems, and renewable energy sources contributed to lowering the site’s overall carbon footprint.
  
• Adaptation: The environmental sector can adopt Zollverein’s approach by incorporating energy-efficient solutions and carbon-reduction strategies in adaptive reuse projects to help combat climate change.
  
• Example Implementation: Adaptive reuse projects can aim for net-zero energy buildings or aim to achieve certifications like LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) to promote sustainability and carbon footprint reduction.
  
• Practical Steps:
  • 
    Conduct energy audits to identify areas where energy consumption can be reduced and implement improvements such as better insulation, energy-efficient windows, and LED lighting.
    
  • 
    Aim for renewable energy integration, such as solar panels, wind turbines, or geothermal energy, to power the site sustainably.
    
  • 
    Pursue carbon offset programs to mitigate any emissions generated by the redevelopment process, aiming to reach a net-zero carbon footprint.
    

7. Climate Resilience and Adaptation

• Lesson: Zollverein’s adaptive reuse also considered the resilience of the site in the face of climate change. The site’s design incorporated measures to deal with extreme weather events, rising temperatures, and other climate impacts.
  
• Adaptation: The environmental sector can prioritize climate resilience in adaptive reuse projects, ensuring that heritage buildings and other sites can withstand the impacts of climate change, such as flooding, heat waves, and extreme weather events.
  
• Example Implementation: Other sites can integrate climate resilience strategies into their designs, such as flood defenses, heat-resistant building materials, and water conservation systems.
  
• Practical Steps:
  • 
    Use flood-resistant materials and elevate buildings to mitigate the risks of flooding in areas prone to heavy rainfall.
    
  • 
    Incorporate climate-responsive design elements, such as green roofs, shading systems, and natural ventilation to reduce the impact of heat waves.
    
  • 
    Develop stormwater management systems that prevent flooding and reduce runoff, using techniques like rain gardens and permeable pavements.
    

Conclusion:

The adaptive reuse of the Zollverein Coal Mine Complex provides numerous lessons for the environmental sector on sustainable urban regeneration, resource conservation, and eco-friendly design. By prioritizing energy efficiency, reducing waste, incorporating green spaces, and enhancing climate resilience, adaptive reuse projects can not only preserve cultural heritage but also contribute positively to the environment. These strategies can be adapted and applied to other locations to promote sustainable urban development, improve biodiversity, and reduce the environmental impact of industrial redevelopment.

🏛️ Politics #

Adaptive Reuse of Industrial Heritage: The Zollverein Coal Mine Complex (Germany)

Description:

The Zollverein Coal Mine in Essen, Germany, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has been transformed into a vibrant cultural and creative hub. The adaptive reuse of industrial architecture promotes cultural heritage preservation while integrating modern functions like museums, art spaces, and educational centers.

NEB Principles:

• Sustainability: Preserving existing structures instead of demolishing and rebuilding, minimizing waste.
  
• Aesthetics: Maintaining industrial aesthetics while incorporating contemporary design elements.
  
• Inclusion: Fostering a sense of place by preserving historical identity and welcoming diverse cultural expressions.
  

Knowledge Transformation:

• Heritage Conservation Strategies: Develop frameworks for preserving industrial architecture while adapting it to new uses.
  
• Creative Economy Models: Showcase how heritage sites can become economic assets through cultural and educational initiatives.
  
• Sustainable Architecture Courses: Educate architects and planners on integrating old and new elements harmoniously.
  

The political sector can learn several valuable lessons from the adaptive reuse of the Zollverein Coal Mine Complex that could be adapted to other locations. Here are some key takeaways:

1. Holistic Policy Approach to Heritage Preservation:

• Lesson: Policies should recognize the cultural and historical value of industrial heritage rather than viewing them solely as outdated or useless structures.
  
• Adaptation: Establish national and regional frameworks that prioritize adaptive reuse over demolition, integrating preservation into urban development plans.
  

2. Public-Private Partnerships (PPP):

• Lesson: The successful transformation of Zollverein involved cooperation between government bodies, private investors, and cultural institutions.
  
• Adaptation: Encourage similar partnerships to share financial and operational responsibilities, fostering innovative solutions that balance economic viability with cultural preservation.
  

3. Long-Term Vision and Strategic Planning:

• Lesson: Zollverein’s transformation was guided by a long-term vision that balanced cultural, educational, and economic functions.
  
• Adaptation: Politicians should adopt long-term, flexible urban regeneration strategies that accommodate cultural heritage, economic development, and community engagement.
  

4. Economic Diversification and Cultural Investment:

• Lesson: Zollverein became an economic catalyst by leveraging its cultural significance to attract tourism, education, and creative industries.
  
• Adaptation: Develop policies that position heritage sites as assets for economic diversification, promoting creative industries, cultural tourism, and education.
  

5. Inclusive and Participatory Decision-Making:

• Lesson: Community involvement and public consultations played a role in shaping Zollverein’s adaptive reuse.
  
• Adaptation: Implement participatory planning processes to ensure that redevelopment aligns with local community needs and aspirations.
  

6. Integration into Regional and National Identity:

• Lesson: Zollverein serves not only as a cultural landmark but also as a symbol of transformation and identity for the Ruhr area.
  
• Adaptation: Politicians can promote adaptive reuse projects as symbols of resilience and cultural pride, boosting social cohesion and identity.
  

Some practical steps to implement the lessons learned from the Zollverein Coal Mine Complex transformation in other contexts:

1. Holistic Policy Approach to Heritage Preservation

• Develop a National Strategy: Introduce legislation that prioritizes the adaptive reuse of heritage sites over demolition, emphasizing cultural and historical significance.
  
• Financial Incentives: Offer tax breaks, grants, or subsidies to encourage adaptive reuse projects.
  
• Clear Guidelines: Create policy frameworks that guide stakeholders on integrating heritage preservation with modern functions, including cultural, economic, and educational purposes.
  

2. Public-Private Partnerships (PPP)

• Establish Multi-Stakeholder Committees: Form public-private committees to oversee the redevelopment process, including local governments, private investors, cultural organizations, and community representatives.
  
• Funding Models: Use mixed funding models, combining public investment with private sponsorship and cultural grants (e.g., EU funding for cultural heritage).
  
• Case Studies and Best Practices: Share successful examples (like Zollverein) with local policymakers and developers to inspire confidence and practical understanding.
  

3. Long-Term Vision and Strategic Planning

• Urban Regeneration Master Plans: Incorporate adaptive reuse as part of broader urban regeneration strategies to revitalize entire districts, not just individual buildings.
  
• Phased Development: Implement projects in stages to maintain flexibility and allow for community feedback at each phase.
  
• Cultural and Economic Impact Assessment: Conduct thorough impact studies to demonstrate how adaptive reuse can stimulate local economies and enhance cultural identity.
  

4. Economic Diversification and Cultural Investment

• Creative and Cultural Hubs: Designate heritage sites as creative hubs where art, design, and innovation coexist with historical elements.
  
• Tourism Strategies: Collaborate with tourism boards to market adaptive reuse projects as must-visit destinations, highlighting their unique blend of history and modernity.
  
• Local Business Integration: Encourage local businesses to set up shops, cafes, or studios within the transformed heritage sites, creating a sustainable economic ecosystem.
  

5. Inclusive and Participatory Decision-Making

• Community Workshops and Public Consultations: Organize regular meetings to gather input from residents, cultural experts, and local businesses.
  
• Digital Platforms for Engagement: Use online platforms to collect ideas and feedback, ensuring transparency and participation.
  
• Community Ownership Models: Explore cooperative ownership structures where local residents have a stake in the redevelopment process.
  

6. Integration into Regional and National Identity

• Cultural Branding: Position the adapted site as a symbol of regional transformation and resilience, reflecting both the industrial past and the innovative present.
  
• Educational Programs: Collaborate with local schools and universities to integrate the site’s history and transformation into the curriculum, fostering pride and awareness.
  
• Storytelling Campaigns: Use multimedia storytelling to narrate the journey from industrial site to cultural hub, engaging both local and global audiences.
  

💶 Economy #

The business sector can learn several valuable lessons from the adaptive reuse of the Zollverein Coal Mine Complex that can be adapted to other locations. Here are some key takeaways:

1. Leveraging Heritage for Economic Value

• Lesson: Transforming heritage sites into business hubs can attract tourism, cultural activities, and innovation, creating economic value while preserving history.
  
• Adaptation: Businesses can invest in heritage sites by creating multifunctional spaces that combine retail, cultural activities, coworking spaces, and gastronomy. This attracts diverse audiences and stimulates local economies.
  

2. Diversification of Revenue Streams

• Lesson: Zollverein’s transformation diversified income through tourism, cultural events, educational activities, and creative industries.
  
• Adaptation: Businesses should consider mixed-use models that combine cultural, commercial, and educational functions to ensure financial sustainability. For example:
  • Event Hosting: Renting spaces for conferences, exhibitions, and workshops.
    
  • Creative Spaces: Leasing areas to artists, designers, or startups.
    
  • Hospitality and Tourism: Operating restaurants, cafes, or guided tour services.
    

3. Branding and Identity

• Lesson: The Zollverein complex leveraged its industrial past to create a strong brand identity, attracting visitors who value authenticity and history.
  
• Adaptation: Businesses should build on the heritage identity of the site, using its story to create a unique brand that appeals to cultural tourists and local communities alike. Incorporating industrial aesthetics into modern uses can further strengthen brand recognition.
  

4. Public-Private Collaboration

• Lesson: Zollverein’s transformation was a joint effort between public institutions and private investors, reducing risks and sharing responsibilities.
  
• Adaptation: Companies should actively seek partnerships with municipalities, cultural institutions, and investors to co-develop heritage projects. This reduces individual financial burdens and encourages community support.
  

5. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Community Engagement

• Lesson: Integrating social and cultural functions alongside business activities enhances the project’s acceptance and success.
  
• Adaptation: Implement CSR initiatives that directly benefit the community, such as:
  • Job Creation: Employing local residents during the construction and operational phases.
    
  • Educational Programs: Offering workshops or training sessions that involve the community.
    
  • Social Enterprises: Supporting local artisans or creative professionals through affordable rentals or collaboration opportunities.
    

6. Innovation through Adaptive Design

• Lesson: Zollverein maintained the industrial aesthetic while introducing modern functions, creating an innovative space that respects the past.
  
• Adaptation: Businesses can innovate by blending modern technology with historic architecture, preserving structural integrity while incorporating modern amenities. Examples include:
  • Smart Infrastructure: Integrating energy-efficient systems and digital connectivity.
    
  • Modular Spaces: Designing flexible interiors that can adapt to different uses without altering the historic facade.
    

Practical Implementation:

1. Feasibility Studies: Conduct market research and feasibility assessments to determine potential uses and economic benefits.
   
2. Business Models: Develop business plans that outline revenue streams, partnerships, and investment opportunities.
   
3. Community Involvement: Engage local stakeholders early to build support and identify community needs.
   
4. Marketing and Storytelling: Build a narrative around the site’s history and transformation to attract visitors and tenants.
   

I can help guide you through the process of designing a business model for an adaptive reuse project based on the principles learned from the Zollverein Coal Mine Complex. Here’s how you can approach it step by step:

1. Define the Project’s Vision and Goals

• Vision Statement: Establish a clear vision that communicates the purpose of transforming the heritage site, such as promoting sustainability, innovation, cultural tourism, and community engagement.
  
• Goals:
  • Economic Diversification: Generate revenue through various streams (e.g., tourism, events, retail, creative industries).
    
  • Cultural Preservation: Maintain and celebrate the heritage value of the site while integrating modern functions.
    
  • Community Engagement: Create a space that brings the local community together and offers employment and educational opportunities.
    

2. Market Research & Feasibility Study

• Target Market Identification:
  • Cultural Tourists: Visitors interested in historical and cultural sites, museums, and art installations.
    
  • Creative Entrepreneurs and Startups: Artists, designers, and small businesses in need of office space, studios, or event venues.
    
  • Local Community: Residents who benefit from new public spaces, events, and services.
    
• Competitive Landscape: Analyze similar projects (e.g., Zollverein, Tate Modern in London, or The High Line in New York) to understand best practices and potential challenges.
  
• Financial Feasibility: Calculate the initial investment, estimated operational costs, and potential revenue streams. Assess the return on investment (ROI) over time.
  

3. Revenue Streams & Business Model Canvas

Here’s a Business Model Canvas breakdown based on the Zollverein example:

• Key Partners:
  • Local Government: For funding, permits, and cultural support.
    
  • Private Investors & Developers: To finance and develop the project.
    
  • Cultural Institutions & Educational Entities: To operate museums, galleries, or training programs.
    
  • Local Businesses: To integrate into the site for retail and services.
    
• Key Activities:
  • Construction & Restoration: Adaptive reuse of buildings, maintaining historical integrity while updating infrastructure.
    
  • Programming & Events: Organize cultural festivals, art exhibitions, educational workshops, or conferences.
    
  • Marketing & Branding: Build the identity of the site as a cultural, creative, and historical hub.
    
  • Community Engagement: Establish workshops and consultation processes to involve the local population.
    
• Key Resources:
  • Historical Building & Site: The core architectural and heritage assets.
    
  • Expertise in Adaptive Reuse: Skilled architects, heritage conservation specialists, and cultural curators.
    
  • Technology: Infrastructure for smart buildings, digital signage, online platforms for engagement.
    
• Customer Segments:
  • Tourists: National and international visitors interested in history and culture.
    
  • Local Residents: Providing leisure spaces and job opportunities.
    
  • Businesses: Creative industries and startups looking for innovative spaces.
    
• Value Propositions:
  • Cultural & Historical Experience: A unique blend of the past and future where history meets modernity.
    
  • Innovative Workspaces: Adaptable offices and studios in a heritage-rich environment.
    
  • Sustainability & Community Focus: Eco-friendly design and community-driven initiatives.
    
• Channels:
  • On-site: Guided tours, cultural events, workshops, restaurants, and retail.
    
  • Online: A website for promoting the site’s history, events, and available spaces.
    
  • Social Media: Build an online community and engage with global audiences.
    
• Customer Relationships:
  • Personalized Experiences: Offering custom events or curated tours for different visitor groups.
    
  • Loyalty Programs: Membership for locals or businesses with benefits like discounts or exclusive access to events.
    
  • Collaboration & Sponsorship: Encourage long-term partnerships with cultural organizations and sponsors.
    
• Cost Structure:
  • Restoration & Construction: Significant initial capital for preserving and upgrading the infrastructure.
    
  • Operational Costs: Staff, marketing, utilities, and ongoing maintenance.
    
  • Program Costs: Fees for hosting events, renting out spaces, and organizing exhibitions.
    
  • Partnership and Licensing Fees: Costs for collaborating with private and public partners.
    

4. Detailed Financial Model

1. Initial Investment:
   • Restoration Costs: Estimate the cost for preserving the heritage buildings while making them usable for modern purposes (e.g., office spaces, galleries, event venues).
     
   • Operational Infrastructure: Investment in facilities like utilities, digital infrastructure, heating, and air conditioning systems.
     
   • Marketing & Brand Development: Initial budget for promoting the site’s opening and ongoing marketing efforts.
     
2. Revenue Projections:
   • Tourism and Admission Fees: Income from museum entry, guided tours, and cultural events.
     
   • Event Rentals: Hosting conferences, weddings, or exhibitions.
     
   • Leasing Spaces to Creative Industries: Rent from businesses, artists, or startups that take up space in the complex.
     
   • Retail & Food Services: Cafes, restaurants, and shops renting space or providing services.
     
3. Profitability:
   • Break-even Analysis: Estimate when the project will start generating profit by subtracting operating costs from expected revenues.
     
   • Sustainability: Factor in long-term costs and revenue sustainability, considering the ongoing need for cultural programming, community engagement, and innovation.
     

5. Community & Stakeholder Engagement Plan

• Local Partnerships: Work closely with local artists, artisans, and educators to offer spaces for collaboration, workshops, or exhibitions.
  
• Inclusive Development: Ensure that the development is not only focused on profit but also provides jobs and opportunities for the local community.
  
• Feedback Loops: Set up processes for ongoing community feedback and participation, using surveys, town hall meetings, and digital platforms.
  

6. Marketing & Communication Strategy

• Branding & Storytelling: Develop a compelling narrative around the site, its history, and transformation. Use storytelling to create a strong emotional connection with your audience.
  
• Multi-Channel Promotion: Use both traditional media (e.g., newspapers, brochures) and digital media (e.g., social media, websites, blogs) to reach global and local audiences.
  
• Collaborations: Partner with influencers, local artists, and cultural institutions to enhance visibility and attract diverse visitors.
  

Example Business Plan Summary for Adaptive Reuse Project:

Project Name: The Heritage Hub
Location: [Your chosen location]
Vision: Transforming an industrial heritage site into a vibrant, sustainable cultural and business center that integrates history, creativity, and community.
Goals:

• Revenue Generation: Develop a multi-use space with tourism, retail, cultural events, and creative industries.
  
• Community Impact: Create jobs, education opportunities, and bring people together.
  
• Cultural Preservation: Maintain the historical integrity of the site while introducing modern features.
  

Revenue Streams:

• Admission fees (museums, events)
  
• Event rentals (weddings, conferences)
  
• Leasing to creative businesses
  
• Retail & food services (restaurants, shops)
  

Key Partners:

• Local government (for funding, permits)
  
• Cultural organizations (for programming)
  
• Investors (for financial backing)
  

👥 Society #

What the social sector can learn and could be adapted to other places

1. Community Revitalization and Social Cohesion

• Lesson: The Zollverein complex has played a central role in the revitalization of the local community in the Ruhr Valley, transforming from a symbol of industrial decline into a thriving cultural hub.
  
• Adaptation: The social sector can learn how to use heritage and adaptive reuse projects to foster social cohesion, combat urban decay, and provide new spaces for community engagement.
  
• Example Implementation: Revitalize derelict industrial sites by transforming them into community spaces that host cultural activities, markets, and social programs. These spaces can bring together different demographic groups, building a sense of local identity and shared purpose.
  
• Practical Steps:
  • 
    Engage local communities in the design and use of the space.
    
  • 
    Provide affordable or free access to cultural and educational events for local residents.
    

2. Fostering Social Inclusion and Equal Access

• Lesson: Zollverein’s transformation includes creating spaces that are accessible to people from all walks of life, with a strong focus on social inclusion through education, culture, and employment.
  
• Adaptation: Adaptive reuse projects should aim to be inclusive, ensuring that all members of society, especially marginalized groups, benefit from the cultural, educational, and economic opportunities these spaces offer.
  
• Example Implementation: Adaptive reuse can provide affordable spaces for local non-profit organizations, social enterprises, and initiatives focused on marginalized populations.
  
• Practical Steps:
  • 
    Offer subsidized or free spaces for local NGOs, community groups, or social initiatives that promote social welfare.
    
  • 
    Integrate inclusive social programs, like workshops, job training, or entrepreneurship courses that specifically support disadvantaged communities.
    
  • 
    Create mixed-use spaces that combine cultural, social, and commercial activities, ensuring accessibility for all.
    

3. Creating Employment and Economic Opportunities

• Lesson: Zollverein’s transformation contributed to job creation through the development of new businesses, tourism, and the creative economy.
  
• Adaptation: The social sector can utilize adaptive reuse as a strategy to address unemployment and create economic opportunities, especially in areas hit by deindustrialization.
  
• Example Implementation: Adaptive reuse projects can include job creation initiatives, such as training programs for youth or local residents, or offering affordable spaces for small businesses and social enterprises.
  
• Practical Steps:
  • 
    Create job training and workforce development programs in partnership with local businesses and educational institutions.
    
  • Provide spaces for social enterprises, which focus on social impact rather than just profit, creating a positive local economic impact.
    • 
      Organize community-led markets or events that encourage local entrepreneurship.
      

4. Community-Led Development and Decision Making

• Lesson: Zollverein’s success was partly due to active community involvement in its transformation. Local stakeholders, including residents, were involved in shaping the direction of the redevelopment.
  
• Adaptation: The social sector can learn from Zollverein’s example by promoting community-led development in the reuse of industrial spaces, ensuring that the needs and aspirations of local residents are at the heart of the project.
  
• Example Implementation: Involve local residents in the planning and design processes for adaptive reuse projects, ensuring that their needs are met and that they have a stake in the outcome.
  
• Practical Steps:
  • 
    Set up community consultations, workshops, and participatory planning sessions before beginning adaptive reuse projects.
    
  • 
    Establish advisory boards or committees with local residents and community leaders to guide the development of the site.
    

5. Strengthening Cultural Identity and Pride

• Lesson: Zollverein is not just a historical site; it is a symbol of the cultural transformation of the Ruhr Valley. The project instilled a sense of pride and ownership in the local community.
  
• Adaptation: Adaptive reuse can help strengthen local cultural identity and pride, especially in communities that have experienced economic decline due to the closure of industries like coal mining or manufacturing.
  
• Example Implementation: Adaptive reuse projects can celebrate local heritage and history, helping communities reconnect with their past while also imagining a positive future.
  
• Practical Steps:
  • 
    Develop public art programs that reflect the history and culture of the area, allowing residents to express their identities through murals, sculptures, and other art forms.
    
  • 
    Offer spaces for local history exhibitions, storytelling, and cultural events that allow the community to share and preserve its stories.
    
  • 
    Promote pride in local craftsmanship by offering workshops and spaces for artisans to create and showcase traditional and modern crafts.
    

6. Promoting Sustainability and Resilience

• Lesson: The Zollverein project demonstrates how adaptive reuse can be a powerful tool for promoting environmental sustainability. The repurposing of old buildings reduces the need for new construction, saving resources and reducing waste.
  
• Adaptation: The social sector can learn how adaptive reuse projects can contribute to sustainable urban development, supporting long-term social and environmental resilience.
  
• Example Implementation: Adaptive reuse projects can incorporate Green building techniques, such as energy-efficient systems, solar panels, and green roofs, and integrate sustainable practices into the everyday lives of the community.
  
• Practical Steps:
  • 
    Use sustainable materials and energy-efficient design when redeveloping buildings.
    
  • 
    Organize community-led sustainability programs, such as urban gardening, waste reduction initiatives, or eco-friendly transportation options.
    
  • 
    Encourage social enterprises focused on sustainability to set up in these redeveloped spaces.
    

7. Strengthening Community Health and Well-being

• Lesson: Zollverein, like many other adaptive reuse projects, has contributed to improving the well-being of the local community by creating vibrant public spaces that encourage social interaction and mental health.
  
• Adaptation: The social sector can create spaces that prioritize physical and mental health by offering areas for recreation, community gatherings, and social interaction, which can improve quality of life and strengthen social bonds.
  
• Example Implementation: Adaptive reuse projects can incorporate public spaces like parks, walking trails, fitness areas, and social gathering spots that encourage both physical activity and community engagement.
  
• Practical Steps:
  • 
    Design spaces that offer a range of community services, including affordable healthcare, wellness programs, and mental health support.
    
  • 
    Host community events that promote well-being, such as yoga classes, gardening clubs, or local fitness challenges.
    
  • 
    Provide spaces for support groups and counseling services that promote mental health and social inclusion.
    

Practical Steps for Implementation:

1. Community Consultations:
   • Hold regular community meetings and workshops where residents can share their ideas, feedback, and concerns.
     
   • Establish community advisory boards to oversee the project’s progress and ensure it remains aligned with local needs.
     
2. Partnerships with Social Enterprises:
   • Identify and collaborate with social enterprises that focus on job training, affordable housing, and other community needs. These organizations can benefit from affordable space in the redeveloped areas.
     
3. Inclusive Programming:
   • Develop inclusive programs, such as job readiness workshops, language classes for immigrants, or affordable child care services to support underrepresented populations.
     
4. Social Housing and Community Services:
   • Integrate affordable housing or social services (e.g., healthcare, child services) into adaptive reuse projects to benefit lower-income or marginalized groups.
     

Conclusion:

The Zollverein Coal Mine Complex’s adaptive reuse offers the social sector key insights into fostering community engagement, creating inclusive spaces, promoting sustainability, and supporting economic opportunities. By implementing similar strategies, other communities can benefit from the transformative power of adaptive reuse to strengthen social ties, improve community well-being, and revitalize areas affected by industrial decline.

Practical Toolkit #

Practical Toolkit for Adaptive Reuse Based on Zollverein Coal Mine Complex

This Toolkit for Adaptive Reuse is designed to help urban planners, architects, environmentalists, and local authorities implement sustainable adaptive reuse projects, using the lessons learned from the Zollverein Coal Mine Complex as a model. The toolkit outlines principles, methodologies, and best practices that can be customized to suit different geographical, cultural, and economic contexts.

1. Toolkit Overview:

The toolkit will be divided into several key sections that highlight the essential components needed for successful adaptive reuse projects. Each section will include a framework, practical steps, tools, and examples based on Zollverein’s experience.

Section 1: Project Planning and Feasibility Study

Objective:

To assess the potential of a site for adaptive reuse by conducting a thorough feasibility study, including structural analysis, sustainability goals, and community needs.

Steps to Follow:

1. Site Analysis:
   • Conduct an architectural audit to evaluate the historical, cultural, and structural significance of the site.
     
   • Assess environmental impact and current building conditions (e.g., insulation, energy efficiency, and existing resources).
     
2. Feasibility Assessment:
   • Conduct a cost-benefit analysis considering renovation versus demolition, factoring in long-term sustainability, energy savings, and community engagement.
     
   • Evaluate potential for economic development such as commercial opportunities, tourism, and job creation, following Zollverein’s model as an industrial heritage and cultural landmark.
     
3. Community and Stakeholder Consultation:
   • Hold community consultations and public hearings to understand local concerns, needs, and aspirations.
     
   • Include key stakeholders such as local businesses, residents, and environmental groups to ensure that the adaptive reuse aligns with local priorities.
     

Tools:

• Site Assessment Checklist (Checklist to evaluate structural, environmental, and historical factors).
  
• Feasibility Study Template (Template for evaluating costs, benefits, and risks).
  
• Stakeholder Mapping Tool (Map stakeholders involved and their influence on the project).
  

Section 2: Sustainable Design and Renovation

Objective:

To integrate sustainability into the design process, incorporating principles like energy efficiency, resource conservation, and low-impact materials.

Steps to Follow:

1. Energy-Efficient Design:
   • Use Green building practices like retrofitting existing structures with modern insulation, energy-efficient windows, and LED lighting.
     
   • Install renewable energy solutions such as solar panels or wind turbines to offset energy consumption, inspired by Zollverein’s adoption of sustainable energy sources.
     
2. Material Selection and Resource Efficiency:
   • Prioritize reclaimed materials (wood, steel, bricks) and use locally sourced materials to reduce the environmental impact.
     
   • Implement a circular economy approach, ensuring that any waste produced during renovation is recycled or reused.
     
3. Water and Waste Management:
   • Introduce rainwater harvesting systems and greywater recycling for irrigation and non-potable uses.
     
   • Implement zero-waste principles by recycling materials from demolished parts of the site or repurposing structures in new ways.
     

Tools:

• Sustainable Design Guidelines (List of recommended eco-friendly materials and technologies).
  
• Energy Efficiency Assessment Tool (Tool to calculate energy savings through retrofitting and renewable energy).
  
• Circular Economy Workbook (Workbook for planning waste management, material reuse, and recycling during renovation).
  

Section 3: Heritage Preservation and Cultural Sensitivity

Objective:

To preserve the cultural heritage of the site while adapting it to contemporary uses, respecting the historical significance of the structure.

Steps to Follow:

1. Historical Preservation:
   • Maintain and restore iconic features (e.g., facades, chimneys, and machinery) to preserve the cultural value, as Zollverein retained its industrial aesthetic.
     
   • Work with heritage conservation experts to determine the best practices for preserving historical elements without compromising structural integrity.
     
2. Adaptive Integration:
   • Find creative solutions for incorporating modern uses into the historical structure (e.g., converting old warehouses into exhibition halls, museums, or commercial spaces).
     
   • Ensure that the site’s identity is maintained by blending new elements with old structures in a visually and functionally cohesive manner.
     
3. Community Engagement in Heritage Preservation:
   • Encourage local participation in the preservation process, inviting residents and community members to share their memories and ideas about the site’s historical importance.
     

Tools:

• Heritage Preservation Framework (Step-by-step guide for assessing which elements of the site should be preserved).
  
• Adaptive Reuse Integration Guidelines (Guidelines for blending new designs with heritage preservation).
  
• Community Heritage Involvement Toolkit (Tools for gathering local input and fostering community ownership of the heritage process).
  

Section 4: Social Impact and Community Engagement

Objective:

To ensure that the adaptive reuse project benefits the surrounding community, fosters social inclusion, and promotes economic opportunity.

Steps to Follow:

1. Creating Public and Social Spaces:
   • Design multifunctional spaces that serve both as public parks and venues for cultural events, similar to Zollverein’s combination of industrial space and cultural hub.
     
   • Plan for inclusive accessibility, ensuring that spaces are open to people of all abilities and backgrounds.
     
2. Economic Development:
   • Develop mixed-use spaces (e.g., combining residential, commercial, and cultural facilities) to support economic growth and job creation, just as Zollverein became a hub for tourism, creative industries, and businesses.
     
   • Encourage local entrepreneurship by providing affordable spaces for startups and small businesses.
     
3. Ongoing Community Involvement:
   • Set up long-term community governance models to allow for the continued participation of residents and businesses in decision-making about the space.
     
   • Establish local employment programs for the renovation phase and the operation of new facilities, ensuring that the community directly benefits.
     

Tools:

• Community Engagement Strategies (Step-by-step guide to involving local residents in the project process).
  
• Economic Development Plan Template (Template for creating job opportunities, supporting local businesses, and enhancing tourism).
  
• Social Impact Evaluation Framework (Tool to measure the social outcomes of the adaptive reuse project).
  

Section 5: Monitoring, Evaluation, and Continuous Improvement

Objective:

To establish mechanisms for tracking the progress of the adaptive reuse project and ensuring that it remains sustainable, resilient, and aligned with initial goals.

Steps to Follow:

1. Performance Indicators:
   • Develop key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure environmental impact (e.g., energy savings, waste reduction), social impact (e.g., job creation, community satisfaction), and economic returns (e.g., revenue from tourism, local business growth).
     
2. Ongoing Feedback Mechanisms:
   • Set up feedback loops through surveys, interviews, and community meetings to monitor the ongoing success of the project and adjust strategies as needed.
     
   • Regularly review the performance of sustainability initiatives such as energy efficiency, waste management, and water conservation to ensure continued compliance with Green building standards.
     
3. Long-Term Adaptation:
   • Ensure that the site is flexible and can evolve over time by incorporating adaptive features into the design, such as spaces that can be easily modified for future uses.
     

Tools:

• Sustainability Monitoring Dashboard (Online tool to track energy use, waste reduction, and environmental performance in real-time).
  
• Community Feedback Survey Template (Survey template to gather input on the project’s impact).
  
• Continuous Improvement Framework (Framework to assess and adapt the project in line with feedback and evolving community needs).
  

Conclusion:

This Toolkit for Adaptive Reuse is designed to help stakeholders—ranging from architects and developers to local authorities and community organizations—take the best practices from Zollverein’s adaptive reuse project and apply them in other contexts. By following these structured methodologies, it’s possible to ensure that adaptive reuse projects not only respect and preserve the historical and cultural significance of a site but also promote sustainability, social inclusion, and economic development.

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5. Nova Iskra Workspace. Available at: https://novaiskraworkspace.com ↑
   

   
   

6. Coworker, Nova Iskra Workspace Savamala. Available at: https://www.coworker.com/serbia/belgrade/nova-iskra-workspace-savamala ↑
   

   
   

7. OneCoworking, Nova Iskra Design Incubator. Available at: https://www.onecoworking.com/venues/nova-iskra-design-incubator ↑
   

   
   

8. Nova Iskra, Marks 5 Years of Existence. Available at: https://novaiskra.com/en/nova-iskra-marks-5-years-existence/ ↑
   

   
   

9. Nova Iskra, New Extension of Coworking Space. Available at: https://novaiskra.com/en/new-extension-of-our-coworking-space/ ↑
   

   
   

10. Nova Iskra, Green Lab. Available at: https://novaiskra.com/en/green-lab/ ↑
    

    
    

11. Nova Iskra Workspace. Available at: https://novaiskraworkspace.com ↑
    

    
    

12. OneCoworking, Nova Iskra Design Incubator. Available at: https://www.onecoworking.com/venues/nova-iskra-design-incubator ↑
    

    
    

13. OneCoworking, Nova Iskra Workspace Zemun. Available at: https://www.onecoworking.com/venues/nova-iskra-workspace-zemun ↑
    

    
    

14. Coworker, Nova Iskra Workspace Zemun. Available at: https://www.coworker.com/serbia/belgrade/nova-iskra-workspace-zemun ↑
    

    
    

15. Film in Serbia, Nova Iskra Workspace Zemun. Available at: https://www.filminserbia.com/location/nova-iskra-workspace-zemun/ ↑
    

    
    

16. BIG SEE, Nova Iskra Zemun. Available at: https://bigsee.eu/nova-iskra-zemun-belgrade/ ↑
    

    
    

17. OneCoworking, Nova Iskra Workspace Zemun. Available at: https://www.onecoworking.com/venues/nova-iskra-workspace-zemun ↑
    

    
    

18. OneCoworking (DE), Nova Iskra Workspace Zemun. Available at: https://de.onecoworking.com/venues/nova-iskra-workspace-zemun ↑
    

    
    

19. Nova Iskra, Workspace Powered by Rent24. Available at: https://novaiskra.com/en/nova-iskra-workspace-powered-by-rent24-opened-its-new-location-in-belgrade/ ↑
    

    
    

20. Office Snapshots, Nova Iskra Coworking Office Design. Available at: https://officesnapshots.com/2013/04/01/nova-iskra-coworking-office-design-incubator/ ↑
    

    
    

21. ArchDaily, Nova Iskra Design Incubator. Available at: https://www.archdaily.com/316913/nova-iskra-design-incubator-in-belgrade-studio-petokraka ↑
    

    
    

22. Nova Iskra, New Extension of Coworking Space. Available at: https://novaiskra.com/en/new-extension-of-our-coworking-space/ ↑
    

    
    

23. Film in Serbia, Nova Iskra Workspace Zemun. Available at: https://www.filminserbia.com/location/nova-iskra-workspace-zemun/ ↑
    

    
    

24. BIG SEE, Nova Iskra Zemun. Available at: https://bigsee.eu/nova-iskra-zemun-belgrade/ ↑
    

    
    

25. Nova Iskra, Presents New Coworking Services. Available at: https://novaiskra.com/en/nova-iskra-presents-new-coworking-services/ ↑
    

    
    

26. Nova Iskra, Workspace Powered by Rent24. Available at: https://novaiskra.com/en/nova-iskra-workspace-powered-by-rent24-opened-its-new-location-in-belgrade/ ↑
    

    
    

27. LinkedIn, Nova Iskra celebrates 5 years. Available at: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/nova-iskra-obeležava-5-godina-postojanja-marko-radenkovic ↑
    

    
    

28. Nova Iskra, Marks 5 Years of Existence. Available at: https://novaiskra.com/en/nova-iskra-marks-5-years-existence/ ↑