The contribution of culture factories to urban life - architecture as a promoter of independent creativity.In late 20th century urban Europe, a great many landmarks of industrial, merchant and military activity were abandoned and fell into disuse. No longer limited to a specific use or content, these 'available' structures could be adapted to house a wide range of cultural projects. The modular nature of the buildings enabled them to be transformed and utilized for experimentation, artistic creation and the blending of people and cultures.An international team of photographers and authors including artists, sociologists and exhibition designers have come together to present a striking visual portrayal of industrial buildings - some typical, some extraordinary - which have all been converted into cultural buildings. Amongst the projects are Ateneu Popular in Barcelona, the City Arts Centre in Dublin, the WUK in Vienna, and the Kaapelitehdas in Helsinki. Further examples have been taken from Belgium, Denmark, Germany, France, Great Britain, Italy, the Netherlands, Sweden, and Slovenia.The wide variety of uses featured in this book clearly show that architecture has a significant role to play in an urban life beyond the monotony of commerce