Architect Ingrid Zarnoveanu - Reconversion of industrial heritage of historical value
Dart team participated at the nZEB Expo 2024, an event dedicated to Nearly Zero Energy Buildings (nZEB), where professionals passionate about sustainable architecture and innovative building solutions gathered. Our presence at this expo reflects our commitment to actively.
Our colleague, architect Ingrid Zarnoveanu, presented on the theme of Industrial Heritage Conversion, focusing on the transformation of T39 Hall—a key structure of the former Tractorul Brasov industrial platform.
This conversion went far beyond functional rehabilitation; it honored the historical memory of the site and the communities that lived and worked around it. For Brasov, Hala T39 represents a living testament to its industrial past, when over 22,000 workers, a significant portion of the city’s active population were employed there.
The project exemplifies sustainable architecture, transforming the building into a modern space that meets today’s needs without compromising its historical essence.
A pivotal decision during the process was the partial demolition of a section of the building, a challenging yet necessary step that allowed for urban regeneration and the creation of a valuable public space where nature, culture, and architecture converge. The original façade was carefully restored, reflecting the authenticity and historical value of the site.
As Ingrid highlighted, heritage conversion is a complex act of balancing contemporary demands with respect for history.
These projects are not solely about profitability; they are acts of courage and passion, often involving sacrifices but yielding invaluable cultural and historical gains. We are deeply grateful to the investors who demonstrated sensitivity and a commitment to preserving this vital piece of Brasov’s heritage.
Architect Vlad Bija - Technical challenges of industrial heritage reconversion
Dart team participated at the nZEB Expo 2024, an event dedicated to Nearly Zero Energy Buildings (nZEB), where professionals passionate about sustainable architecture and innovative building solutions gathered.
Our colleague, Vlad Bija, architect and certified passive house consultant, gave a presentation on the technical challenges of the T39 Hall conversion, a landmark project in Brasov.
"Sustainable development and the concept of sustainability have received a strong boost in recent years, especially in 2015, since the climate clock started ticking, which at this moment shows that we have 4 years, 8 months and 26 days left until the Earth's carbon budget is exhausted. The concept of sustainable development addresses this aggravation of environmental problems" said Vlad Bîja.
In the context of the global climate crisis, sustainable development and sustainability have become key priorities for all stakeholders involved in the built environment. Romania is currently ranked 40th out of 166 member countries of the United Nations Organization in the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals, and in the construction sector, the challenges related to energy efficiency, conservation of natural resources and adoption of renewable energies are particularly relevant.
The conversion of T39 Hall was carried out in an ever-changing legislative context. From 2012, when the design was initiated, to the regulatory changes in 2022, new standards for thermal resistance in renovated buildings were introduced. These regulations are an essential step toward the mandatory implementation of zero-energy buildings, which will become obligatory from 2028.
The conversion of T39 Hall was carried out in an ever-changing legislative context. From 2012, when the design was initiated, to the regulatory changes in 2022, new standards for thermal resistance in renovated buildings were introduced. These regulations are an essential step toward the mandatory implementation of zero-energy buildings, which will become obligatory from 2028.
An essential technical aspect of the project was the building's compactness, a key parameter that can be controlled at the design stage of a concept. This technical aspect considerably influences energy performance.
Projects like the T39 Hall conversion demonstrate how architecture can address contemporary challenges while preserving historical heritage. Sustainable architecture is not only about aesthetic design but also involves measuring and controlling parameters that ensure both energy efficiency and respect for heritage.