Jun 25, 2026

Zváračák: The Transformation of a Bratislava Landmark

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Račianska Reality, a.s. has unveiled the design of the future urban district that will be developed on the site of the former administrative and industrial complex of the Welding Research Institute (VÚZ) on Račianska Street in Bratislava. The winning proposal was authored by Studio Egret West in collaboration with its local partner, Superatelier.

The approximately 6-hectare site is located on Račianska Street in the Bratislava–Nové Mesto district. The project includes the construction of more than 1,300 apartments, approximately 21,000 m² of office and retail space, 198 student accommodation beds, and more than 2 hectares of publicly accessible green space. The new district will also feature services, shops, restaurants, community and cultural spaces, and additional public amenities. An important aspect of the design is the preservation of selected fragments of the original welding institute complex, which will become part of the site’s new identity.

SEW’s winning proposal creates a new urban district that connects the character of Račianska Street with the landscape at the foothills of the Little Carpathians. The urban concept places strong emphasis on high-quality public spaces, walkability, greenery, and the natural integration of various functions. At its core is the creation of a diverse urban environment that will serve residents and visitors throughout the day.

Preserving the identity of the site and its industrial heritage is a key component of the proposal. A historic industrial hall with a unique vaulted geometry, formerly used as a welding laboratory, will be retained and transformed into one of the district’s main landmarks and a distinctive venue for culture, events, and community activities. Studio Egret West have also proposed reusing numerous other buildings and re-purposing several fragments of the original industrial complex, which will be naturally integrated into public spaces and landscape features. As a result, the site’s industrial heritage will become part of the everyday experience of future residents.

Public space and greenery play a significant role in the project. The proposal includes a network of squares, parks, community gardens, recreational areas, and pedestrian connections linking different parts of the site. Landscape design builds upon the existing mature vegetation, site topography, rainwater management strategies, and biodiversity enhancement. Public spaces will also include areas dedicated to community activities, sports, relaxation, and children’s play.

The architectural solution combines several building typologies, ranging from a landmark high-rise tower and pavilion-style apartment buildings to lower-rise residential structures. The high-rise creates a new visual landmark for the area while responding to the city skyline and views of Bratislava Castle. The lower buildings are designed to complement the character of the surrounding neighbourhood. Particular emphasis is placed on residential quality, access to natural daylight, connection to greenery, and the creation of attractive public spaces between buildings.

Construction will be carried out in several phases. The first phase is scheduled to begin in 2028, and given the scale of the development, the project is expected to be delivered progressively over a period exceeding ten years.

The Competition

Over 30 international submissions were made for the site. The jury deliberated upon the final six design proposals from Benthem Crouwel, KCAP, Stefano Boeri Architetti, Quercraft and Gro Architekti, and Zeit Architects. The jury was convinced by Studio Egret West’s sensitive approach to the territory, respecting its industrial past and ability to transform a closed area into a vibrant and open district. They said that the design brings a thoughtful integration of housing, offices and public spaces with an emphasis on functionality and sustainability.

Sharing the winning design marks an important milestone in the transformation of the Zváračák site. Throughout both the architectural competition, our priority was to find a solution that would create long-term value for the city, its residents, and the site itself. SEW’s proposal delivers a balanced mix of housing, employment opportunities, services, green spaces, and high-quality public areas. We believe the project will contribute to the continued development of this part of Bratislava while demonstrating that brownfield regeneration is the most responsible approach to urban growth, as it makes use of existing infrastructure and promotes sustainable urbanism.”

Juraj Nevolník Member of the project's investment committee

From the very beginning, we were fascinated by the strong character of this place and its industrial history. When we first visited the site, we discovered the words “We Understand Welding”. This is a fitting mantra for a place full of character and memorable artefacts. We look forward to welding together existing and new structures, landscapes, and neighbourhoods. Our framework unites these elements with a mix of living, working, and cultural programmes to ensure an authentic and sustainable ecosystem evolves over time”

David West Founding Director, Studio Egret West