Ekofuturium is set to be completed in Koszalin by the end of 2029. It will be a Centre for Sustainable Development, with an estimated cost of around PLN 150 million. The project, being carried out by the West Pomeranian Province in collaboration with Koszalin University of Technology and the city authorities, is intended to enhance the region’s scientific and educational provision. The facility will house exhibition spaces, laboratories, educational rooms and zones dedicated to ecology, energy transition and future technologies.
Ekofuturium in Koszalin
The idea for Ekofuturium emerged during work on the new EU financial framework and whilst the Maritime Science Centre in Szczecin was being finalised. The provincial authorities decided that a similar developmental impetus should also be directed towards Koszalin, a city with a strong academic base. As Olgierd Geblewicz, Marshal of the West Pomeranian Province, emphasises, the investment was inspired by the region’s unique character, which has long been associated with nature and the high environmental awareness of its residents. Ekofuturium aims to raise awareness of climate change, the circular economy, renewable energy sources and the responsible use of natural resources.
Neighbourhood of the Koszalin University of Technology campus
The new centre will be built next to the Koszalin University of Technology campus. Nearby, the Cognitarium is under construction, along with a sports and entertainment hall and a water park. This means that the area will soon become an urban hub for education, research and recreation. An additional feature that sets this neighbourhood apart is the sculpture “Fiery Birds” by Władysław Hasior, one of Koszalin’s symbols. The Ekofuturium building itself will have approximately 5,991 square metres of floor space and will serve as a laboratory and exhibition centre dedicated to issues concerning the future of the environment and the relationship between humans and nature.
Atelier Tektura’s winning design
The Ekofuturium project was selected in a two-stage competition announced in 2024. The organisers received as many as 56 applications for admission to the competition, and following verification, 50 teams were invited to participate. In the first stage, 30 concepts were prepared, from which the jury selected the six best. Ultimately, the Warsaw-based studio Atelier Tektura, led by architect Barbara Kozielewska, emerged victorious. The firm is currently responsible for preparing the design documentation and providing in-house supervision of the project. Over PLN 390,000 was allocated for competition prizes, including PLN 150,000 for first place.
Ekofuturium – architecture for the long term
The winning concept by Atelier Tektura presents a building with a contemporary form, devoid of flashy, quickly ageing elements. The designers have opted for simplicity, high-quality materials and architecture designed to remain relevant for many years to come. Inside, there will be interactive exhibitions, laboratories, educational rooms, conference spaces and experiment zones for children and young people. Visitors will be able to use VR and AR technology, immersive installations and exhibitions dedicated to biodiversity, renewable energy, environmental technologies and the future of cities. If the schedule is adhered to, by the end of 2029 Koszalin will be able to boast a new science centre aspiring to join the ranks of Europe’s most interesting educational centres dedicated to ecology and the future of the environment.
design: Atelier Tektura
source: Marshal’s Office of the West Pomeranian Province
Read also:Architecture in Poland|Interesting facts | Education |City |whiteMAD on Instagram
