In times of increasing urbanization and housing crisis, there is more and more talk about the quality of the space we live in. It's not just a matter of functionality, but also aesthetics, identity of place and respect for context. This is the thinking of {tag:studenci} from the Faculty of Architecture at the Cracow University of Technology, the author of a project for a multi-family residential building in a downtown development in Cracow.
landscaping, projection, elevations
© Wojciech Duma
new quality in the old fabric of the city
The plot on which the project is located is on Biskupia Street - in the very center of Cracow, in the vicinity of planty and many historic tenement houses. Currently used as a parking lot, in Pride's vision it becomes a modern, elegant building that complements downtown buildings without overwhelming them. What's more - it becomes an impulse to revitalize neglected parts of the neighborhood, without losing its own expression.
The architecture of the building does not try to be flashy. Its strength lies in the details - the building's irregular projection based on the letter T has been enriched with gentle curves and concaves, creating a dynamic but harmonious body. It's not just a matter of aesthetics - these forms also have a functional significance, such as in terms of sunlight exposure or privacy for residents/residents.
forms from the future, inspiration from the past
The project is inspired by the architecture of the 1960s and 1970s. Space age motifs, forms taken from modernism and references to iconic buildings, such as the Cepelia pavilion and the BWA Gallery of Contemporary Art in Katowice, are evident in both form and choice of materials.
The building's façade was designed using aluzinc sheeting and cement and chipboard in the form of a spatial mosaic. This treatment not only visually enriches the facade, but also gives it depth and character. Parts finished with silicone plaster and glazed ceramics in brown introduce an additional layer of expressiveness, while fitting into the context of the neighboring development.
plan, visuals, detail
© Wojciech Duma
functionality with people in mind
The building has six above-ground floors and one underground floor, which includes a garage, storage rooms and technical facilities. There are 31 apartments - from compact studios to spacious four-room apartments with balconies and loggias. The first floor provides for two commercial premises: a boutique and a bookstore with reading areas. The courtyard has been arranged as a green common space with a playground, seating and seasonal flowerbeds.
Structurally, the building combines masonry and reinforced concrete walls, and its roof is made using inverted roof technology, which allows for green plantings even above the garage. Attention is drawn to the glazed traffic riser, which not only illuminates the interiors, but also provides an attractive visual element.
between architecture and responsibility
What distinguishes Wojciech Duma's design is his ability to balance between modernity and respect for place. The young architect does not seek controversy, nor does he escape into extravagance. Instead, he proposes architecture that is responsible - both aesthetically and socially.
This is a building that not only looks good, but above all works. It fits into the urban fabric, responds to the real needs of residents/residents and contributes to improving the quality of life in the center of Krakow. Wojciech Duma's project is an example that young architecture in Poland is ready to talk to its surroundings.
