UK architect Foster + Partners has designed a 38ha masterplan for a section of hydrocarbon-contaminated land at the centre of the Romanian port city of Constanța.
Foster is working on behalf of Iulius, a developer specialising in mixed-use urban regeneration. The idea was to design a “city within a city”, complete with cultural and educational buildings, retail, entertainment, sports and leisure facilities, public parks and botanical gardens.
Existing structures, such as silos, will be renovated and used as theatres or pavilions. Cycle routes and green pathways will run through the site.
Maximilian Zielinski, a partner in the firm, said: “In transforming the urban wasteland into a vibrant hub, we invite locals, investors and tourists to be a part of this transformative journey towards a city that honours its history.
“Our vision prioritises the environmental focus, by integrating green corridors, remediating hydrocarbon-contaminated land, removing boundaries and developing a sustainable development that complements harmoniously the existing cityscape.”
Daniel Zielinski, a senior partner, added: “Capturing the essence of the Black Sea, the regeneration project embraces the natural elements and landscapes. The proposal is deeply anchored in the city’s rich history, from its Greek and Roman origins to its more recent industrial heritage.”
- Subscribe here to get stories about construction around the world in your inbox three times a week
