New Within the Existing

architects Maruša Zorec, Maša Živec, Ana Kučan
project Remodeling of the Ravne Castle, Slovenia
written by Uroš Lobnik

 

The remodeling of Ravne Castle into a central Carinthian library complex is a contemporary example of the active protection of a historical structure by the acknowledgement and use of the exceptional urban situation and the built structure. The remodeling of this building and a part of its park gave the city center of Ravne an urban space that joins the old town core, the complex of the ironworks, residential quarters and educational-recreational area together with the castle building into an integral entity. The public program generating an urban and high quality renovation of the castle complex has created an “acropolis” ambiance – a very attractive, almost metaphysical space, which floats over this working town like a cloud, a garden of knowledge and a park of memories. The urban context of the renovated castle complex including a library, a museum, exhibition hall and coffee shop gave the building the role of a keeper of urbanity, portico of the present day "acropolis" and architectural generator.