The final-year project by Martyna Zygmańska, a student at the Magdalena Abakanowicz University of Arts in Poznań, is one of the most interesting recent attempts to rethink the concept of animal shelter spaces and an example of what a shelter might look like. ‘In Dialogue with a Dog: A Modular Spatial System Dedicated to Dogs in Shelters’ stems from the need to take a critical look at the conditions in which dogs live in Polish shelters, and from the belief that architecture can have a real impact on their welfare. The author draws on both her own experiences of adoption and media reports about so-called ‘overcrowded shelters’, asking whether current design standards truly meet the needs of the animals – the primary users of these spaces.
The starting point was the assumption that a dog is not a passive recipient of infrastructure, but a full participant in the space. A dog’s perception of the world differs significantly from that of humans: communication is based on non-verbal signals, and the senses of smell and hearing play a key role. It is precisely these senses that determine a dog’s sense of security, stress levels and ability to rest. Understanding this perspective has become the foundation of the entire project, which treats architecture as a tool to support animal welfare, rather than merely organising their stay.
Three design perspectives
The study was preceded by a review of the literature on canine behaviour, questionnaires, interviews with carers and observations carried out at the Poznań Animal Shelter. The analysis revealed recurring problems: sensory overload, a lack of opportunities to withdraw, limited personalisation of space, and difficulties in building positive relationships between dogs and humans. Zygmańska organised the findings into three interrelated perspectives – that of the dog, that of the human, and that of the dog–human relationship – which formed the basis of the entire system.
Modular zoning
The design is not tied to a single location. It was conceived as a flexible, modular system that can be implemented in animal shelters of varying scale, budget and structure. The functional layout follows the dog’s journey from the moment of admission: from health assessment and veterinary care, through quarantine and behavioural diagnosis, to the final living areas. A key element is the modular ‘villages’, which group dogs according to age, temperament and activity level. This division reduces stress, allows for greater individualisation and facilitates safe socialisation.
A new spatial logic
The building’s form moves away from the institutional model of a shelter. Instead of a single compact structure, there is a fragmented layout of modules inspired by the logic of container structures. This system can be expanded, rearranged and modified as required. The materials used prioritise durability, ease of maintenance and improved comfort for both the animals and the staff. The project demonstrates that flexibility does not have to mean temporary solutions – it can become a tool for creating a more welcoming environment.
Azyl – a space of retreat
An integral part of the concept is ‘Azyl’, a modular shelter placed directly within the kennels. It provides dogs with their own, separate space where they can rest, minimise sensory stimulation and feel safe. The system is based on repeatable modules in three sizes tailored to the dog’s size, and its design allows for easy assembly, transport and maintenance. Two prototypes have already been delivered to the Poznań Animal Shelter, where they are being used in day-to-day operations.
Martyna Zygmańska’s project is a proposal that does not impose a single model of animal shelter. It offers an open system that can be adapted to various conditions, drawing attention to those whose needs are all too often overlooked in the design process. It is an attempt to demonstrate that architecture can support animal welfare and foster more mindful relationships between humans and dogs. ‘In Dialogue with a Dog’ is not merely a design – it is a manifesto of sensitivity that points the way towards future standards for the design of shelter spaces.
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