A vision of a museum is being created in the center of Poznań, not only collecting artifacts, but becoming a tool for social change. The conceptual design of the Museum of Women's Historyis an architectural response to the need for visibility, memory and equality. Bold form, symbolism rooted in art history and thoughtful functionality create a coherent narrative about womanhood - and its place in public space. Commemorating herstory is important to Przemyslaw Baranek from the Faculty of Architecture at Poznan University of Technology, who created the project under the supervision of Piotr Bartosik.
site development plan
© Przemyslaw Baranek
architecture with a message
The building is inspired by the work of Caspar David Friedrich, particularly the contrast between the "Woman in the Window" enclosed in shadow and the "Wanderer at the Sea of Mist" standing on the edge of infinity. This contrast becomes the starting point for creating a space that does not isolate, but invites. The main form - an hourglass with a cross-section of an ellipse - connects three zones symbolizing women's past, present and future.
The location of the museum was chosen for its context related to feminism - Liberty Square (the site of women's strikes), the Women's Time Foundation, the National Museum or the Magdalena Abakanowicz University of Art. Pink concrete, the dominant facade material, breaks stereotypes. A color associated with infantility was juxtaposed with the rawness of concrete - a strong and durable material. The result? A symbolic combination of strength and awareness that breaks visual conventions.
context
© Przemyslaw Baranek
space for reflection, dialogue and action
The lump of the building refers to the neighboring volume on Marcinkowskiego Avenue and the rhythm of the Raczynski Library. The building is divided into three parts, which are connected by an hourglass-shaped form
and cross-section of an ellipse, in which the main exhibition function of the museum is envisaged.
The lowest floor of the museum is underground - a metaphor for the (in)presence of women in history. Descending to this level resembles a ritual of going back in time. The focal point is to be the famous sculpture Maman Louise Bourgeois - a huge spider, a symbol of mother, memory and survival. The spiral staircase leading upward to the light becomes an architectural story of hope and gradual emergence from the shadows.
front elevation
© Przemyslaw Baranek
The first floor of the building is a space of dialogue. The direct connection to the street level - literally and symbolically - refers to protests, activism and everyday conversations. The site is planned as an open public zone: a forum, café, space for a mural and temporary exhibitions. It is a space that is alive with actuality - open to everyone's voice.
The last floor is a space for creative and educational activities. The library, lecture hall and a vast terrace overlooking Poznań are an architectural metaphor for transcending limitations. The terrace symbolizes breaking through the glass ceiling - climbing above limitations and reaching for more. The horizon overlooking the City Hall, the Cathedral and Przemysl Castle reminds us that the history of the city is also the history of women.
MAIN VIEW
© Przemyslaw Baranek
a project with a heart and a mission
Although only a conceptual project, it carries a huge emotional and social charge. It was created as a student work at the Poznan University of Technology - completed by the author as part of a design exercise. As he stresses, as a man he does not claim the right to speak for women, but wants to give them a voice in the space he designed with respect and care.
In February 2025, Julia Fiuta, also a student at Poznan University of Technology, prepared the design development of the project, joining forces in an interdisciplinary duo. This is an example of how student initiatives can become a starting point for important conversations - and real change.
