Modern education today goes far beyond the walls of lecture halls. Male and female students need spaces that are not only functional, but also inspiring and inclusive. In response to these needs, the "Billy Goat " project was created - a new vision of the academic canteen located on the Campus of Poznań University of Technology on St. Roch Street. It is a place designed by Joanna Dobrowolska, under the supervision of Dr. Art Barbara Linowiecka, redefining the traditional concept of a canteen, turning it into a multifunctional center of student life.
cross section
© Joanna Dobrowolska
space tailored to real needs
The premise of the project was to create a multifaceted place - serving both for eating, studying, teamwork or relaxation. The space encompasses two floors and was divided into distinct functional zones, corresponding to the different modes of activity of the students.
The quiet zone was conceived as an enclave of concentration - sheltered by fluted glass walls, it allows one to cut off from the noise, while not excluding visual contact with the rest of the space. Ergonomic desks, comfortable chairs and warm lighting support effective work.
zone of silence
© Joanna Dobrowolska
Open space, a space for group and individual work, offers flexible solutions: light partitions, different floor levels, modular furniture. It was inspired by coworking offices and modern academic campuses. Technological solutions such as interactive whiteboards and numerous power outlets were used in this section.
open space
© Joanna Dobrowolska
The game room is a nod to the need for relaxation and stress relief. It features pool tables, console gaming stations, foosball, and comfortable conversation areas. The balance between duties and relaxation is an important element in supporting students' well-being.
game room
© Joanna Dobrowolska
The food and beverage area has been designed to meet a variety of needs - from a quick meal to longer meetings over coffee. The interior combines natural materials, such as wood and stone, with a modern aesthetic inspired by urban cafes. The menu provides for, among other things, vegan and gluten-free dishes, responding to current healthy eating trends.
gastro zone
© Joanna Dobrowolska
Aesthetics rooted in the identity of the place
The interior design draws inspiration from the urban character of Poznań and the modern identity of the Poznań University of Technology. Subdued colors dominate, with energizing accents in shades of blue and green that give the space a fresh feel. At the same time, the interior retains functionality and comfort - through ergonomic furnishings, thoughtful layout and high-quality materials.
Inspiration came from Scandinavian campuses and coworking projects such as WeWork, among others. The space was designed with versatility in mind - so that every user, regardless of their needs or limitations, can feel comfortable here.
"Billy Goat" is an inclusive space. It takes into account the needs of people with disabilities, offering, among other things, an elevator between floors and appropriately adapted catering areas. Every part of the space provides access to power, ergonomic solutions and quiet areas for recuperation.
postcards
© Joanna Dobrowolska
goats with character - a local visual accent
A distinctive element of the project is a visual identity system based on the iconic goats - a symbol of Poznań. The goats have not only a decorative function, but also an orientation function. The Goat Cook greets guests in the gastronomic area, the Goat Player invites them to the game room, and the Goat Porter facilitates orientation at the entrance. This light, humorous touch gives the space a friendly, informal feel and reinforces the local identity of the project.
Joanna Dobrowolska's design is more than a cafeteria arrangement - it's a vision of a modern, integrated academic space that supports the development, integration and well-being of students. "Billy Goat" shows that functionality and design can go hand in hand, creating an environment that meets the modern needs of education and student life.
