The OPENS Youth Center.

Winner of the 2nd NEB 2025 Champions Award in the category ‘Recovering a sense of belonging’.

This is an innovative and sustainable urban regeneration project that transformed an old factory into a dynamic cultural centre focused on young people. Its aim was to reduce its carbon footprint through the adaptive reuse of the existing industrial structure, integrating renewable energy, circular economy practices and inclusive design.

Solar panels and waste sorting bins were installed, and the historic elements of the building were preserved. The result is a green, energy-efficient space where young people can participate in various activities, such as workshops and performances addressing issues such as unemployment, mental health problems and social exclusion. Local communities were also involved in the planning phase through public discussions.