Revitalizing Lihovar Distellery: Circular Metabolism and Sustainable Urban Regeneration

Mohammed-Redha Kameli

Diplomová práce

Abstract:

This thesis investigates the adaptive reuse potential of the former Lihovar distillery site in Smíchov, Prague, through the lens of circular metabolism and sustainable urban regeneration. Positioned within an active floodplain and embedded in a rapidly transforming urban context, the site presents both significant constraints and unique opportunities for redevelopment. The research adopts a qualitative case study approach, combining spatial analysis, site observations, and user-based survey data to examine the morphological, physiological, and socio-cultural dimensions of the site. The morphological analysis evaluates spatial structure, connectivity, and urban integration, while the physiological layer focuses on environmental systems, including hydrology, flood risk, waste flows, energy systems, and microclimatic conditions. The intelligence layer incorporates user perceptions and behavioral patterns to assess the site’s social activation potential. Findings reveal a strong industrial and cultural identity, as well as a strategic waterfront location, while also highlighting challenges related to fragmentation, low permeability, and environmental constraints. Although passive circular practices, such as sustainable mobility and local consumption, show promising levels of engagement, more active practices particularly resource reuse remain limited. Based on these insights, the thesis proposes, firstly, an evaluative model of circularity potentials, complemented by a set of design and strategic interventions centered on the integration of a microbrewery as a catalyst for circular systems, social engagement, and place identity. By reconnecting material flows, activating public space, and enhancing ecological resilience, the proposed approach demonstrates how industrial heritage sites can be transformed into adaptive, multifunctional urban environments. This research contributes to the broader discourse on circular urbanism by illustrating how metabolism-based frameworks can inform context-sensitive and resilient redevelopment strategies.

Keywords

Circular Metabolism, Adaptive Reuse, Industrial Heritage, Urban Regeneration, Sustainable Urban development

Jazyk práce: angličtina

Datum vytvoření / odevzdání či podání práce: 4. 4. 2026

Obhajoba závěrečné práce

• Obhajoba proběhla 18. 5. 2026
• Vedoucí: doc. Peter Kumble, Ph.D.
• Oponent: Milan Macoun, Ing. arch.

Česká zemědělská univerzita v Praze

Fakulta životního prostředí

Magisterský studijní program:
Landscape Planning