Rog Factory, the former bicycle factory, in the centre of Ljubljana represents an important cultural monument and industrial heritage not only of the Slovenian capital, but also of the wider region. The Municipality of Ljubljana has recently started the first renovation works, which will turn the degraded and decaying building into a new creative, cultural and social center of Ljubljana – Centre Rog. The renovation will include a demanding and extensive process of architectural, urban and program interventions into the area in and around the factory.
Starting to operate in 2023, the Rog Centre will connect the old city centre of Ljubljana with the Metelkova Cultural Center, the exhibition area in the Cukrarna Gallery and the Book and Youth Center in the Cukrarna Palace. Ljubljana will thus receive 11,000 m2 of new quality public spaces, of which 5,500 m2 will enable cultural, educational, research and other creative activities in 20 new production rooms. Namely, the Rog Center will innovatively integrate design, architecture, modern technology, economy and education, and it will, thus, present the new creative centre of Slovenia’s capital. There will be also a new multi-purpose hall for the needs of exhibition, music, intermedia or lecture and presentation activities.
Just a quick walk from the Rog Centre, former sugar refinery called Cukrarna is undergoing a complete renovation and refurbishment. With the renovation of this massive empty industrial building from the past, Ljubljana will gain a new and its biggest exhibition space suitable for demanding Slovenian and foreign art exhibition projects, as well as for other events in the field of culture, the arts and education. The Municipality’s aim is also to expand the city centre towards the east and consequently, to acquire additional public space. The urban intervention will also include the upgrade of the urban environment around the project structure itself.
The new multipurpose cultural venue is expected to start operating in Autumn 2021 and the total value of the reconstruction is expected to be around 23 million euros. Its goal is to expand and improve the available exhibition space in the Municipality of Ljubljana (MOL) and increase the number of complex exhibitions which will attract bigger audiences, both local and from abroad. At the same time, the gallery will provide easier access to cultural events for all the city’s residents and other visitors, as well as substantial promotion of various cultural productions. With its versatile concept, the venue is also expected to function as a special events venue, which will enhance Ljubljana’s offerings for meeting planners.
