The work of Roberta Lewandowska from the Faculty of Design Arts at Bydgoszcz University of Technology concerns the comprehensive adaptation of a historic tenement house at 10 Poznańska Street in Bydgoszcz. This project is not only a transformation of the space, but also an attempt to preserve the spirit of Bydgoszcz Venice - a picturesque neighborhood whose history and unique atmosphere introduced the design context.
cross section
© Roberta Lewandowska
history of Bydgoska Venice
The townhouse, located on the Młynówka River, in a place full of charming backstreets and rich history, posed a challenge due to its narrow-space development. This kind of architecture, typical of historic centers, required solutions that emphasized its unique character while allowing it to adapt to modern utility functions. Bydgoszcz Venice, sometimes referred to as "Polish Venice," is a part of the city with a rich past, which became an important industrial and residential center in the 19th century. Tenement houses located directly on the water are a unique element of the urban landscape.
studio
© Roberta Lewandowska
main project assumptions
The key objective of the project was to transform the existing restaurant into a multifunctional space, combining a design studio with residential living. The adaptation began with a detailed analysis of the site's history and functional potential. Design assumptions included preserving the authenticity of the place, maximizing the use of natural light and ergonomically adapting the space to the needs of the users and users.
studio
© Roberta Lewandowska
design studio in a historic building
The design studio, located on the first floor, was designed as an open space conducive to cooperation and teamwork. The division into functional zones made it possible to keep the interior transparent. Right at the entrance, an exhibition area was placed, where mock-ups and finished projects are presented behind a large glass display case. Then we move to the conference area, equipped with a table for eight people and shelves for documentation and samples. In the back was a recreation and relaxation area with a kitchenette and a work zone with ergonomic workstations and a view of the river.
The interior was kept in loft style - brick walls, concrete ceilings and anthracite furniture emphasize the industrial character of the place, fitting in with the history of Bydgoszcz Venice, where factories and craftsmen used to operate.
studio
© Roberta Lewandowska
comfortable apartment in minimalist style
The apartment, arranged on the second and third floors, is a more private space, though still open and full of light. A C-shaped kitchen with modern storage systems and tall cabinets is planned for the second floor. The adjacent dining area, with a large table for six, flows seamlessly into a living room furnished with minimalist furniture and details such as iconic Eames chairs and a Noguchi coffee table. In this part of the apartment, a drum set was placed under the stairs leading to the mezzanine, alluding to the passion of the owner of the space.
apartment
© Roberta Lewandowska
Mezzanine as a place for relaxation and recreation
The mezzanine, which is the third floor, was arranged as a yoga and recreation area, which is surrounded by lush plants and large windows that let in daylight. An open dressing room with illuminated closets and a master bedroom, decorated in a minimalist style, were also located here. The bathroom on this floor is a space full of elegance - the combination of white and anthracite emphasizes the modern character of the interior, and the use of Calacatta tiles and ceramics from Polish manufacturers adds prestige to the interior.
apartment
© Roberta Lewandowska
a combination of tradition and modernity
The entire project was thought out in terms of functionality and aesthetics, and a key aspect was to preserve historical elements. Brick walls, concrete pillars and original beams were incorporated into the modern interior, which made it possible to create a space that harmoniously combines tradition and modernity. The introduction of large glazing and the opening of the space made the interior bright and welcoming, while maintaining its loft character.
apartment
© Roberta Lewandowska
