The Tatra Archive of Planet Earth is a project developed by the Warsaw-based studio POLE Architekci. It exemplifies a harmonious combination of modern architecture and respect for the natural environment. The building is located in the hamlet of Kiry, in the area of the Tatra National Park in Kościelisko. The plot is intended to serve tourist traffic, and the project takes full account of the guidelines of the local zoning plan.
The building was divided into an aboveground and an underground part, in accordance with the requirements of the spatial plan, which limits the maximum area of the building to 35 square metres. As a result, most of the exhibition functions have been located underground, preserving the natural landscape and minimising interference with the surroundings. The underground section, which occupies an area of approximately 800 sq m, houses extensive educational facilities that thoughtfully tell the geological and natural history of the Tatra Mountains.
The underground part of the building, stylised as a traditional Podhale chalet, is made of more than a century old recycled wood. The 35-square-metre building serves as the main entrance and is also equipped with a lift to provide access for people with disabilities. Architectural elements such as skylights and geometric openings emphasise the functionality of the building and its integration into the surrounding space.
The underground section was designed with functionality and education in mind. It includes a wide range of exhibition and educational spaces, and its roof is covered with greenery that seamlessly connects the facility to the landscape. Various entrances have been planned for the building, including the main entrance at level -1, preceded by a wide staircase, and two emergency exits integrated into the garden. Interior lighting is provided by internal courtyards – a circular one, accessible from level -1, and a rectangular one with a fountain. In addition, a glazed skylight in the north-western part of the plot brings daylight into the underground spaces.
Paved paths have been planned on the site to provide convenient access and access for people with disabilities to the lift located in the above-ground part of the building. In addition, routes have been laid out to lead to the various attractions located within the project premise.
The exhibition of the Tatra Archives of Planet Earth is an extraordinary journey through the geological history of the Tatra Mountains. It presents successive stages of evolution of the Tatra massif – from the formation of crystalline and sedimentary rocks, through tectonic movements and Pleistocene glaciations, to contemporary processes shaping the alpine landscape. Visitors can learn about the genesis and structure of individual geological formations and understand how the Tatras have changed over millions of years.
The exhibition scenario was designed to engage visitors in a multidimensional way. The exhibition includes seven thematic rooms that stimulate intellectual, emotional and practical imagination. Visitors learn about phenomena such as the effects of temperature and pressure on rocks, the evolution of water in the Tatras, and even encounter a model of a dinosaur. Each room offers a different range of knowledge, engaging different senses and building an emotional connection with nature. Adam Kowalski of KOPTON, author of the exhibition scenario, emphasises: “This is how we understand 21st century nature education – holistically.”
The project is distinguished by its unique approach to integration with the environment. The paved paths allow for easy movement around the site and the roof greenery reinforces the feeling of naturalness of the building. In addition, the traditional appearance of the above-ground hut and the carefully designed underground elements make the facility friendly to both the environment and visitors.
The Tatra Archive of Planet Earth in Kościelisko is an example of modern architecture that combines functionality, aesthetics and education, while maintaining respect for the surrounding nature. It is a place that inspires people to learn about and protect the natural Tatra heritage.
Investor: Tatra Mountains National Park
Implementation: 2024
Contractor: PBO Śląsk
Location: Kościeliska Valley – Kościelisko Kiry
Usable area – 933 sq. m.
Photography – Filip Bramorski
Design team: Wojciech Gajewski, Łukasz Gniewek, Bartłomiej Popiela
Exhibition author: Kopton
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