Studio KOGAA will present tools for economically and environmentally sustainable development at the Guerrilla Tactics 2019 conference

The purpose of the conference organized by the Royal Institute of British Architects on November 5 and 6 in London is to bring architects closer to developers' thinking. Architect Tomáš Kozelský and designer Alexandra Georgescu from the Brno studio KOGAA were invited to demonstrate the mechanisms of successful realization of a development project using the example of the conversion of an unused distillery into a multifunctional space The Distillery.

Case Study from Central Europe

The architect-developer thinking applied by KOGAA in its pilot project The Distillery relies on creativity and experimentation in creating the economic and legal framework for the operation of the building. Architects simultaneously manage the building economically, taking responsibility for its fulfillment and successful functioning. Considering the specific character of the building, they seek opportunities for its ideal utilization. The project accounts for a program of occupancy that is not conditioned by quick economic returns for all its components. Architects create a multifunctional space capable of responding to seemingly non-profitable intentions, such as applied research in ecological sustainability of cities. Unconventional, experimental projects simultaneously attract attention and consequently support economic returns through other profitable activities in the building.

From an architectural perspective, the conversion occurs as an organic process. The building, which has lost its purpose, is technically secured by architects immediately upon taking it under their management, creating an attractive communication space for discussion with potential users. The viability of the building is not dependent on the completion of a formal architectural-construction conversion. The phased process is characterized by a gradual revitalization of the site. It maintains its continuity, responds to the needs of existing urban structures, and repeatedly tests the potential of the building and the locality over time. The architect's tools are expanded to include a procedural component that underlies the realization of an economically and ecologically sustainable existence of the building.

Blurring of the Lines Between Architects and Developers Under RIBA's Guidance

Lectures and workshops within Guerilla Tactics respond to the insufficient education of architects in the fundamentals of development, specifically the selection of suitable sites, planning their development, and the ability to engage investors. The profession of an architect carries several characteristics that predispose it to take a leading role in this field. Consequently, an increasing number of architects are crossing the metaphorical boundary between their profession and development. This makes them more independent in their business and opens a wide field of activity. In every city, including London, there are many neglected sites where architects can recognize their potential, but for large developers, they are economically uninteresting, and city management lacks the funds for their development. In the context of today's times, where sustainable development, environmental protection, and circular economy come to the forefront of interest, blurring the lines between architects and developers is a crucial topic.

London Supports Circular Economy

The composition of speakers at the GUERRILLA TACTICS 2019 conference and its theme are focused on Great Britain. RIBA thus responds to a trend that is affecting the country and London itself. City leaders are contemplating neglected plots, vacant, or underutilized buildings. London Mayor Sadiq Khan plans to utilize such sites (up to 0.25 hectares) for the construction of apartments for those in social need and to involve small and medium enterprises in this process. He bases his decisions on newly emerging strategic documents that help developers and architects direct their actions toward circular economy and sustainable development. In London alone, construction accounts for 54 percent of all waste and simultaneously consumes 400 tons of new material annually. One of the paths to sustainable development is therefore the conversion of buildings rather than their demolition.