Revitalization of the Historic Settlement of Smolyany

Revitalization of the Historic Settlement of SmolyanyCastle Reconstruction & Cultural Regeneration

—Diploma Project · 2020Field: Architecture / Urban DesignAuthor: Pavel Liashkovich

This project investigates the revitalization of the historic settlement of Smolyany through the reconstruction of its ruined castle and the reactivation of the surrounding urban fabric.

The proposal treats the castle not as an isolated monument, but as a spatial and cultural core capable of restoring historical continuity, strengthening public life, and generating new cultural and tourist scenarios.—

CASTLE RECONSTRUCTION

Historical Research and Reconstruction Strategy​​​​​​​

The White Kovel Castle (Biały Kowel) has survived only in a ruined state, with fragmented walls, foundations, and limited above-ground remains.

Due to the absence of a fully preserved structure, the reconstruction process was preceded by an extensive research phase aimed at establishing a credible architectural and historical framework and avoiding speculative reconstruction.The analysis of archaeological findings and archival materials allowed the identification of the original spatial configuration of the castle, including its primary axes, tower positions, and courtyard organization.

The research involved:

— on-site investigation of existing ruins and terrain  — analysis of archaeological excavation data  — examination of archival documents and historical written references  — study of historical drawings, engravings, and visual records  — comparative analysis of architectural analogues from the same period and region, including Northern European and Dutch-influenced fortification and residential typologies

The collected data formed the basis for identifying the original spatial logic, key volumetric elements, and construction principles of the castle.  As a result, the reconstruction is based on informed architectural interpretation rather than literal or decorative replication.

The functional zoning of the White Kovel Castle is organized vertically, following a clear logic of accessibility, public intensity, and conservation requirements.   – Lower levels: research facilities, archaeology, storage, technical and service    – Middle levels: public circulation, permanent exhibitions, administration      – Upper levels: temporary exhibitions, creative and flexible cultural spaces

This spatial hierarchy ensures operational efficiency, protects sensitive historical layers, and supports year-round public use of the castle.

Ground floor plan +0.000

-4.800 Floor plan                                                                                    +4.800 Floor plan

+9.600 Floor plan                                                                                 +14.400 Floor plan

The reconstruction of the White Kovel Castle is conceived not as an isolated architectural intervention, but as a catalyst for the wider revitalization of the historic settlement of Smolyany.

By concentrating cultural, educational, and public functions within the castle complex, the project establishes a strong spatial and symbolic core capable of activating the surrounding territory.

The following section presents the master plan of Smolyany, illustrating how the reconstructed castle integrates into the overall urban structure and supports the revival of the settlement as a coherent cultural and spatial system.

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SMOLYANY MASTERPLAN

The historic settlement of Smolyany represents a coherent cultural and spatial system shaped by architectural heritage, natural landscape, and a historically established urban structure.

Rather than functioning as a single landmark, the settlement forms an interconnected ensemble of historical buildings, public spaces, and landscape elements linked through visual axes, pedestrian routes, and spatial relationships.

The master plan reinforces these existing connections by restoring spatial hierarchies, strengthening public routes, and integrating cultural, recreational, and residential functions.

Through this strategy, Smolyany is transformed from a fragmented historical site into a legible, accessible, and inhabitable environment, capable of supporting cultural tourism, longer stays, and everyday use.

—Thank you for your attention.Diploma Project · 2020Architecture / Urban Design