The villa at 28 Maria Skłodowska-Curie Street in Łódź was until recently haunted by its dilapidated façade, boarded-up windows and general neglect. Today, there is no trace of this image. An extensive renovation of the monument has brought out its most valuable qualities and brought the building back to new life. Completed in 2023, the work is an example of exemplary restoration and is a great source of pride for Łódź residents.
The history of one house
The building at 28 Skłodowska-Curie Street was erected in 1926 as the residence of the Ewald Welnitz family. In the following decades, the building changed its purpose several times. After the end of the Second World War, it housed, among other things, offices, a bakery and a bookbinding shop. In the last years before it was abandoned, the house was the seat of the Small Printing Department belonging to the Provincial Public Library. The property was held by the city for a while before being sold into private hands. The new owners took it over in a very poor technical condition, which did not inspire optimism.
28 Skłodowska-Curie Street after renovation
The long-awaited renovation began in 2021 and lasted two years. In 2023, the conversion of the villa was completed, transforming it into an accommodation facility. The new function was given to it with respect for its architectural heritage. As the building is listed in the register of historical monuments in Lodz, it was renovated under the watchful eye of the conservator. It now houses an intimate facility called “Biblio” Apartments, offering short-term rentals. During the works, efforts were made to preserve as much as possible of the spirit of the former villa. To this end, among other things, the stylish wrought-iron balustrade in the staircase was saved and the door and window woodwork was painstakingly recreated to match the historic original.
Investment with the ‘Librarian’ mural
In July 2023, the side wall of the front part of the building was decorated with a delicate mural by Pawel Ponichtera. His work is entitled ‘Librarian’ and refers to the former function of the villa related to the activities of the Provincial Public Library. The renovation at 28 Maria Skłodowska-Curie Street is an example of a small investment which, despite appearances, has a significant impact on the image of the area. It is most positive.
source: UM Łódź(https://lodz.pl/)
photos: investor’s materials
Read also: Architecture in Poland | Łódź | Renovation | Metamorphosis | Tenement | whiteMAD on Instagram
The villa before and after renovation
