Local Centre “Orszy” Square

Program „Local Centers”

During discussions with locals on the direction in which the city should develop, demands for “Local Centers” were voiced. Warsaw citizens and experts have chosen 10 places on Warsaw’s map. In Mokotów district the Stanisław Broniewski “Orsza” Square has been chosen for this pilot program of Warsaw Local Centers.

Orsza’s Local Center must serve the inhabitants. It should become a multifunctional space, which should gather and connect the local society, facilitate the creation of social and neighborly bonds and create space for spending time together.

Continuation, completion, subsequent additions

Our project is based on the continuity of the character of this place, it’s complexed traditions and different approches in which it’s used. Design consist of elements, which can be easily added in the future. It can be adjusted to the changing conditions of the development.

Two spaces, two traditions

The project develops and enhances the differences between two parts of Orsza’s Local Center. In the 18th century the park located in front of the  Szustra’s palace was shaped as sentimental garden. Aligning with this tradition we decided to propose a space of free character, focused on different experiences in the visible and purely sensory spectrum.

Stanisław Broniewski “Orsza” Square takes up the space which was allocated to it in 1930’s. We would like to integrate it with the extent of surrounding streets, according to Juliusz Żurawski’s idea of „forma spoista” (binder form). We propose clear geometrical forms which would set out spaces for different activities. Clear and geometrical layout of the square will give different functional possibilities.

Clear borders and filling them in

The composition of the square will bring out its middle part. The side of Dąbrowskiego and Różana Street will have roofing enabling people to spend time regardles of  adverse weather conditions.  The roofing covers pavilions, which would accommodate restaurants and  well as a multifunctional social pavilion.

The Park boarders in front of the Szustra’s Palace will create two belts: south one along the Morskie Oko Street, and north one along existing buildings.  Both of them will have seats, trees, hedges, social gardens and insect hotels. Locals could plant flowers there – perennials and one year plants.