Our team combines an experienced Austrian architectural studio – querkraft architekten, a locally based Slovak emerging practice – gro architekti, and a well‑established Austrian engineering company with a branch in Slovakia – Delta SK to address the transformation of the Zváračák brownfield site in Bratislava. We bring complementary strengths in human‑centred design, clear conceptual thinking, local context awareness, and integrated engineering expertise, supporting a structured process from early urban strategy to practical implementation.
Our concept builds on existing buildings framing two existing courtyards and introduces a framework that creates all together five spacious courtyards. These are enclosed by low-rise buildings of 6–8 storeys and five towers. Each courtyard is enriched with greenery and given a distinct character, reinforcing spatial hierarchy and supporting diverse public and communal activities.
A new street and public realm will connect surrounding neighborhoods, creating an active and accessible green urban link. Independent retail and the existing crafts community will animate the pedestrian experience. Distinct buildings with arcades and varied rooflines will reinforce the street’s identity. A new entrance, marked by a levitating office building, will act as a landmark. It opens onto a main square connected to the street, establishing a strong spatial relationship within the site.
Cars and cyclists will use the site’s perimeter, creating a pedestrian-first public realm along the new central street. Parking will be provided underground beneath all five courtyards and the main square. Pedestrian access will be prioritized, with controlled vehicle access for deliveries and disabled users.
The development is planned to be 70% residential, with offices located in two connected buildings near the site entrance, alongside the preserved and reused “church” structure. The development can be phased into five residential stages based on the courtyards, along with an independent office phase. Each stage will include underground parking sized to its built volume, with separate access points.
team gro: Juraj Palovič, The Anh Dang, Lukáš Bím, Jakub Čerešník, Dóra Máthé