Port Praski, one of the most dynamically developing areas of Warsaw, is entering a new phase as part of the Doki project. This part of the development is set to transform the waterfront of the former port into a vibrant neighbourhood, combining residential, recreational and commercial functions. The plan includes publicly accessible walking boulevards, flats overlooking the water, numerous retail units and 13,300sq m of green space, with more than 400 trees. In addition, the project will include the upgrading of a nearby school and the provision of harbour pools for recreational use. A key element will be a rebuilt jetty – a harbour hydrotechnical structure in the form of an artificial peninsula protruding into the water, which will become an attractive leisure area for Warsaw residents. The concept in the atmosphere of the riverside district was prepared by the studio APA Wojciechowski Architekci.
Port Praski is a strategic investment for the right bank of Warsaw. Its location on the Vistula River, close to the Stadion Narodowy metro station, the railway and numerous transport routes, makes it one of the city’s most important revitalisation projects. To date, 10 residential buildings with almost 900 flats have been constructed in the Port Praski area, located on Okrzei, Krowie and Sierakowskiego streets. Their ground floors house numerous retail and service premises, such as shops, restaurants, kindergartens and medical outlets. The development has also been enhanced with a flood control sluice, which protects the area and part of Praga-Północ from flooding.
The next phase of the project, Doki, will transform the harbourfront into a recreational and residential space. Initially, 337 flats will be built, and the project will eventually include as many as 935 units. The space will not only be stunning overlooking the water, but will also become a place for meetings and recreation. Along the waterfronts, there will be numerous walking and cycling paths and footbridges that will connect the existing traffic routes. The aim of the designers from APA Wojciechowski Architekci was to realise a riverside development similar to the European port districts of Copenhagen, Amsterdam, Hamburg or Oslo. However, the height of the buildings, ranging from 5 to 7 storeys, retains the familiar scale of the Old Prague development and the existing part of the Prague Port. The composition of the new blocks will also refer to the local layout of Prague tenement houses. One building up to 10 storeys high surrounded by water on three sides is also proposed, which will stand out visually.
Praga Port today and in the future. Photo: Google Earth and APA Wojciechowski Architekci
The investors attach great importance to sustainability. Rain gardens, green roofs and energy-saving technologies are planned to ensure harmony with nature. An important design consideration is to minimise vehicular traffic – cars will be parked in underground garages, which will open up space for the development of green and recreational areas. The ground floors of the new buildings will include service establishments such as bakeries, restaurants, cafés, pharmacies and gyms, providing convenience for residents. Importantly, Doki will be open to everyone – the development will not be fenced off, and Warsaw residents will be able to use the publicly accessible boulevards and waterfront areas. The investors are also planning to reclaim the so-called green jetty, where a marina for boats, a water equipment rental facility and mooring places for kayaks will be created.
The project is being carried out in dialogue with the local community. Residents have the opportunity to contribute their comments and proposals, which is a key element in shaping this new, attractive urban space. The investment process is being carried out in accordance with the provisions of the Housing Specs Act, which allows for flexible space management and rapid changes. Port Praski is also planning to finance the modernisation of the Queen Jadwiga Primary School No. 50 and the reconstruction of the road infrastructure around the estate. The project has received a preliminary positive opinion from the Bureau of Architecture and Spatial Planning, which paves the way for the implementation of subsequent stages. Thanks to its excellent location near the underground, railway and recreational areas along the Vistula River, Doki will become a modern place to live, ideal both for families and people who value proximity to nature and urban convenience.
Source: APA Wojciechowski Architekci
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