This 19th-century corner building is located in the very heart of Szczecin, at the largest and most representative star-shaped square in the historical city centre. The layout of the square, which follows the Parisian planning pattern, is an essential element of the monumental urban development at Grunwaldzki Square (formerly Kaiser Wilhelm Platz).
The tenement house, with three frontal wings, inner courtyard and a gate entrance, has fully preserved rich architectural details of its front elevation. They make a clear reference to Baroque forms. The building has two, fully preserved staircases, with decoration of high artistic value. Walls are decorated with marble and ceilings contain gilding. The building is listed in the municipal register of historical monuments, which imposes particular care in the selection of design solutions.The building’s original designation was residential. After the war, a specialist medical clinic operated in the building, then in 2004 it was sold and remained vacant for nearly 20 years.
The building is located in the most attractive part of the city which call for a very high standard to be ensured while restoring its historical, luxurious residential function.The basic design objective is to create luxurious flats in the city centre that meet the top notch modern and comfortable living standard. While complementing basic needs of contemporary residents, parking space will be provided in a 2-level underground garage made after redeveloping of the existing basement. Intervention in the external fabric of the building is minimal, limited to the incorporation of the garage entrance into the façade. The only noticeable design alteration is the extension of the roof.
The building lost its original roof during the Second World War. It previously included decorative gables and turrets accentuating the front risalit on the square side. After the war, although the roof was reconstructed, it was altered, lowered and simplified. This significantly impoverished the formal expression of the building. We intend to compensate for the loss with a modern superstructure, recreating the original height of the roof. At the same time, it helps to develop the unused attic into two levels of accommodation. Thus, the building’s magnificent location will be highlighted by its extended porte-fenêtre glazing.
Everything else needed to create the unique character of a luxurious residential building has been already here. The key to success is just meticulous revitalisation, subversive intervention, and adaptation to new, contemporary needs, while respecting the legacy of the place. All this comprises a building with extraordinary qualities and atmosphere.
