Olivia Portka and Wiktoria Domagała from the Faculty of Architecture at the Silesian University of Technology, under the direction of Prof. Katarzyna Ujma-Wąsowicz and Szymon Świderski, developed the project for the "Radio-642" Educational and Exhibition Center, a modern concept that was created for a special place - the neighborhood of the legendary Gliwice Radio Station . The project shows how student imagination and knowledge can combine historical heritage with the needs of modern communities, creating architecture that is a symbol of intergenerational dialogue.
schematics
© Olivia Portka, Wiktoria Domagała
The heritage of the Gliwice Radio Station as inspiration
The Gliwice Radio Station, erected in 1935, is the tallest wooden structure in Europe - it measures 111 meters. Its history is inextricably linked to radio engineering, communications and the dramatic events of World War II.
It is from this past that the authors of the project are starting. The name "Radio-642" refers to the frequency of 642 kHz, which was used for broadcasting during the war period. This rooting in history is the ideological foundation of the concept: the center is not to compete with the existing monument, but to enter into a subtle dialogue with it, creating a space for education and integration.
sections, elevations
© Olivia Portka, Wiktoria Domagała
architecture inspired by a sound wave
The central motif of the project has become the sound wave - a symbol of ether, transmission, dialogue and the interpenetration of cultures. Its dynamic course influences the layout of space, landscape and architectural form of the building.
-
The main body is simple and horizontal, partially recessed into the terrain. As a result, the scale of the building has been reduced, and the whole harmoniously fits into the surroundings of the Radio Station.
-
The wooden façade structure recalls the rhythm of the Radio Station's mast, and the use of larch wood directly references the historical material.
-
The curved roof was formed on the basis of the mast's vertical section - a symbolic link between the past and the present.
The whole gives the effect of architecture that does not overwhelm the monument, but contributes to the narrative of the place.
visualization
© Olivia Portka, Wiktoria Domagała
path of knowledge and pavilions in greenery
An integral element of the complex is a winding path inspired by the course of a radio wave. Along it were located educational pavilions - light, organic forms blended into the greenery, whose shape refers to the horizontal cross section of the mast.
The pavilions create intimate spaces conducive to workshops, meetings and knowledge exchange. The path and pavilions guide users through the project's narrative - from the history of radio engineering to contemporary perspectives on culture and education.
visualization
© Olivia Portka, Wiktoria Domagała
functions of the complex - history and modernity in one place
The "Radio-642" program includes diverse functions:
-
Exhibition space with permanent and temporary exhibitions,
-
Educational zone with workshop studios,
-
Recreation and outdoor zone, encouraging outdoor activities,
-
Restaurant and integration space - a meeting place for residents, tourists and event participants.
This layout allows for individual sightseeing, but also for larger events, conferences or festivals. The building is thus becoming a new center of culture and dialogue in Gliwice.
visualization
© Olivia Portka, Wiktoria Domagała
A symbol of modern Gliwice
The project by Olivia Portka and Wiktoria Domagała shows that students can think about architecture in a mature way, embedded in the context of the place and its identity. "Radio-642" does not compete with Radiostation, but enhances its message, creating a space where history and modernity coexist in harmony.
It's a project that could become a new symbol of Gliwice - a place where generations meet, connecting residents, tourists and radio history enthusiasts.
