Work submitted for the competition
"Best Interior Diploma".
The aim of the project was to revalorize part of the palace and farm complex in Lenartowice, more specifically, the palace and barn. The concept of revaluation in the context of architecture means taking conservation measures aimed, among other things, at restoring architectural monuments to their former glory. Lenartowice was located in the immediate vicinity of the Prussian-Russian border, which had a significant impact on its spatial, social and cultural development. Over time, this border disappeared from the maps, while not from its surroundings. Especially important were the functions inspired by the former purpose.
plan of the palace with description of the zones
© Aleksandra Matuszak
The palace, which once served a representative function, now impresses not with its wealth, but with its presence. It is this presence that has provided the impetus for action. The current state, disordered, degraded, with a history, is the most important starting point. The project shows that architecture does not have to speak loudly to make the space between representation and everyday life and past and present a pretext for revaluation. A portion of the exhibition space was placed in the palace, with the border as its main motif, understood in both historical, cultural and symbolic contexts. The border was treated as a source of inspiration because of its shape, but above all its meaning.
visualization of the palace
© Aleksandra Matuszak
The idea of the project was to use borders not only as an idea for an exhibition in the palace, but also as an art form. After drawing various borders, not only those adjacent to the manor, it was decided to use them in a light installation placed in the floor. Upon entering the main room of the palace, the viewer begins to walk on it, consciously or not, crossing various boundaries. It's a simple, almost imperceptible gesture that raises the question: can every boundary be overcome just as easily? The site becomes an impulse to reflect on whether a boundary, though not always visible, can take time, effort and a change of mindset when crossing it.
projection of the barn with description of the zone
© Aleksandra Matuszak
The barn serves as a social and inclusive space, contrasting with the more representative and narrative role of the palace. It restores the old idea of a rural community, but in a modern form - instead of a classic economic space, the barn becomes a center of local activity. An important part of the barn's design was the reinterpretation of folk culture, including by drawing inspiration from the region's distinctive snutka embroidery. The ornamental motifs of this embroidery represent a rich collection of forms inspired by nature, which makes it an interesting source of inspiration in the context of contemporary design. Selected elements of snutka were used to create a barn projection. After learning about the history of embroidery, it was noted that it was an integral part of women's work. The modern interpretation of this motif transforms this activity into work for pleasure rather than subsistence. The barn has become a creative space, also accessible to younger users, serving as a workshop. It acquires the status of a village hall, serving, among other things, the Rural Housewives' Circle.
visualization of the barn
© Aleksandra Matuszak
From the considerations of time, boundary and architecture, the following conclusion can be formulated: the palace and farm complex in Lenartowice, burdened with history, should escape neither the past nor the present. Time is constantly present in all of this - as a real force sculpting walls, meaning and boundaries. Time does not act as a threat, but as a resource. Degradation is not a mistake, but evidence of lapse and change, becoming a stimulus for creation. The project in Lenartovice does not stop time, it allows it to act, teaching humility in the face of its passage and encouraging conscious design with it, not in spite of it.
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Illustrations: © Author .
