What is the role of architects in the functional and qualitative crisis of housing in Poland? What can they do to improve the quality of housing construction? These and other questions were answered by architects from renowned studios in the country, including Daria Trzepla-Strzeńska, the lead architect at Horizone Studio. The article discusses, among other things, the challenges facing designers and ways to improve standards in housing construction.
We encourage you to read it!
In the face of contemporary challenges, such as the decline in the quality of apartments, the lack of functional spatial solutions or development pressure, architects should design with the real needs of users in mind. It is crucial to take care of functional interior layouts, the appropriate size of rooms, access to daylight and the ergonomics of space. The architect operates at the interface of the interests of the investor, residents and local authorities. In the current crisis, he can act as a mediator, promoting solutions that combine the developer’s profit with the comfort of residents and compliance with regulations.
We also have an ethical obligation to oppose projects that lower the quality of life – creating cramped, non-ergonomic apartments or ignoring common spaces. Our role is to push for high design standards that improve the quality of life in the community.
We should also build social awareness by showing how important the quality of residential space is and what the consequences of neglecting it can be. At the same time, we can educate investors about the long-term benefits resulting from better quality construction.
Contemporary design requires innovative solutions and the use of modern technologies that increase the comfort, energy efficiency and functionality of apartments. It is also necessary to take into account changing life models – such as remote work, multifunctionality of space or the need for greater mental and physical comfort. An alternative may also be new forms of construction, such as housing cooperatives, micro-apartments or modular apartments, which are more flexible and affordable.
To sum up, architects are not only designers, but also leaders of change who can counteract the functional and quality crisis in housing construction. Their influence, however, depends on cooperation with investors, local authorities and effective legal regulations. -> Daria Trzepla, lead architect at Horizone Studio
At Rydlówka Street in Krakow, you can admire the unique Nokturn Deweloper investment designed by Horizone Studio. Rydlówka 40 is two 7-storey buildings, in which a total of 65 apartments have been designed, service premises on the ground floor from the street side and a single-level underground garage. The choice of the exterior and interior colors of the buildings was based on the historical connections of the area, and more precisely to the RKS Garbarnia Kraków sports team – whose pitches are located near the investment. The colors harmonize on the neighboring buildings, creating a coherent aesthetic. The materials used are high-quality enameled colored exterior ceramics and light plasters. A definite advantage of the investment is its central location. The buildings are situated on the quiet Rydlówka Street, between the main communication arteries of Krakow: ul. Wadowicka and ul. Kapelanka. Nearby there is an extensive network of tram and bus lines, numerous commercial and service infrastructure and office buildings. In close proximity there are green areas – including the Wilga River Park with a bicycle path and Zakrzówek Park. The investment, commissioned at the beginning of 2024, was sold in its entirety even before the completion of construction.
