Vallon ouVert

VALLON ouVERT is the title of the urban design plan made for the invited international competition of Dudelange, Luxemburg. It is a vision for the regeneration of a former industrial site, with highly contaminated soil and former industrial relicts. The area, located in a valley on the south side of town, separates existing neighbourhoods and the city centre. The disappearance of the steel industry has had both physical and mental consequences for the city; not only did the urban identity become weaker, an empty disused spot has appeared in the urban fabric. Therefore, the urban design should offer unity and identity for the future of Dudelange.

The main focus for the design team is the ‘open valley’, a wide landscape zone around a reconstructed water stream. Buildings are found along the edges, as extension and connection to existing housing areas. There is room for a diversity of typologies, fitting the landscape context. 

A synergy between buildings and landscape arises, the strategy for contaminated soil defines partly the new landscape and levels of the ground. The present industrial heritage is used, because of its strong influence on local character. 

Conversion of the buildings will regenerate the valley. The green zone offers space to a program of varying (recreational) functions. The valley will gain a wider field of influence than its direct surroundings, becoming an attraction for inhabitants of Dudelange and beyond.