Kristián Vnučko

TERRA CIVICA takes the reading of this kiln as its starting point. Rather than reconstructing the lost building, the project inhabits it, transforming the former kiln into a civic centre: a place for gathering, exchange and collective life.

The existing longitudinal structure remains the primary spatial order. Three parallel naves — three structural tracts — are defined by the original rhythm of openings and supports. New elements enter this framework as a sensitive intervention, in absolute coherence with the ruin while remaining contemporary. Massive timber frames, reinforced with steel, are carried by an independent system of steel and steel-timber columns. Their repetition creates a spatial rhythm reminiscent of a temple, where structure, light and material replace ornament.

The frames extend down to the ground on both sides, forming terraces and steps for sitting, meeting and gathering.

They also become routes through which the civic centre can be climbed, dissolving the boundary between interior and exterior across multiple levels.
To the south, the terraces unfold into a public park whose geometry continues the rhythm of the former industrial landscape, reconnecting at selected points with existing paths leading towards the coast west of the kiln.
The roof becomes a field of modular openings. Selected glazed modules can unfold like flowers, operated by telescopic arms and equipped with integrated shading. They transform the roof into an inhabitable landscape for walking, gathering or yoga, while allowing a continuous promenade around the inner perimeter of the ruin.

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