The Dutch architectural firm MVRDV won a contest to renovate the Serp & Molot Factory in Moscow, Russia.
The project will be completed by 2021, and the estimated cost is RUB180bn (about $5bn).
MVRDV stated that the 58ha (1884) steel factory had fallen into disrepair because of overgrown and unused plants. The architectural firm created an urban concept for the 1.8 million m2 of mixed-use space. MVRDV’s scheme builds on the existing layout and identity and adds a new layer to the neighborhood.
MVRDV stated that historical structures like large chimneys and pipes will be preserved, and other systems will be integrated into the new building.
According to the plans, new urban blocks and green courtyards are being created, and a factory transport ring that was already in place will be repaired. This will form the spine of the new neighborhood, forming a three-dimensional space.
The ground floor will be used to house public amenities and retail. Playgrounds, sports facilities, and open-air markets will be part of the public urban space, while daycare centers and schools will be connected to the ringpark.
New neighborhoods will have housing, offices, local schools, and a hospital. The urban quarter is being developed in phases to accommodate 19,000 residents and 16,000 workspaces.
MVRDV designed the plans for Russian developer Donstroy in collaboration with Proektus, a Moscow-based company, and Laplab, a Dutch company.
What are the benefits and drawbacks of applying LNG technologies to SA and Africa, where there is an urgent need for LNG facilities?
In most countries, the technology for vaporizing LNG is very well developed. It could be used in Africa. The vaporization process is carried out in these facilities using seawater heating or gas-fired vapourizers. The facilities are capital-intensive and are not able to use the LNG “cold.” It is lost. Integrating LNG vaporization into power generation allows for the use of “cold” in power plant operations, as well as a more reliable and cost-effective vaporization technique. Integration provides a cost-effective and efficient solution.