Revitalization of buildings and urban areas on the example of Gdańsk, Venice, Milano and Zabrze

Abstract

Abstract Revitalizations are becoming a common activity giving new life to the abandoned buildings, districts, degraded areas, etc. The necessity of such actions results, among others, from the changing needs of users of these spaces, climate change and new technologies used. These activities are a strategic element of urban policy. They also fit into the context of sustainable development, causing a change in the value, reception and perception of degraded spaces and objects. New functions give a new quality, but also affect the neighbourhood, improve the quality of the immediate environment. They also enable the elimination of spatial conflicts, as well as the introduction of ecosystem services that reinforce the multi-range potential of these areas and facilities. During the study trips, the authors analyse in detail interesting examples of successful revitalization. The revitalizations are discussed: the factory building in Venice on the Giudecca Island (Italy), the entire quarter in the old town of Gdansk (Poland), the mine shaft in the post-industrial (mining) city of Zabrze (Poland) and housing estates with office buildings of Milano (Italy). The aim of the research was to analyse the effects of revitalization activities in these European cities. Relationships and correlations in these activities were analysed. The research also concerned the applied principles that may have an impact on the effectiveness of revitalization and its positive implementation. The quality of revitalized space and its impact on the surroundings was also analysed. Particular attention was paid to the importance of qualitative research at the revitalization programming stage. The analyses concerned various sizes and scope of the revitalization activities, i.e. from the object to the building quarter. The research results indicate the existence of universal principles of successful revitalization, which are applicable at different scales of revitalization. At the same time, the applications indicate 12 golden rules for a successful revitalization. The importance of qualitative research at the revitalization programming stage is underlined. These studies constitute the success of revitalization. Qualitative research conducted at the stage of programming activities may ensure the coherence of activities in various scales of urban space (from the object to the city’s quarters) and prevent the transmission of conflicts and problems to other urban areas.