The second edition of the architectural and urban planning competition ‘Urban Spaces’ is being launched in Łódź, with the aim of transforming selected spaces in the city centre into attractive and functional places for everyday use. The competition continues the activities carried out by the City Architect’s Office as part of a long-term strategy for the revitalisation of downtown Łódź. This time, the participants’ attention is directed to the courtyards at 34, 36 and 38 Piotrkowska Street.
Historic space in a modern approach
The competition task is to develop a concept for the development of three neighbouring backyards within the Łódź Metropolitan Area. The spaces have been selected due to the need for urgent revitalisation measures that will respond to the needs of the local community, while at the same time being an element of a broader vision of the development of the city’s central districts. The organisers of the competition expect projects that will combine functionality with aesthetic values, taking into account the cultural identity of Łódź. Particularly important will be the reference to the historical character of the city through architecture, small architectural forms and the presence of elements inspired by the local craft and industrial heritage.
Artistic courtyards for residents and tourists
The main objective of the competition is to create a concept for an artistic, multifunctional courtyard that will be an open and welcoming space for residents and visitors to the city. Proposals may include places for rest and recreation, green zones and solutions conducive to spending time outdoors. The use of environmentally friendly solutions, such as the introduction of green-blue infrastructure or rainwater retention measures, will also be an important assessment criterion. Projects should respond to the challenges of climate change and foster the mitigation of urban heat islands.
“Urban Spaces” in dialogue with Łódź’s heritage
The works should make creative use of elements characteristic of Lodz, such as brick, cast-iron details, Art Nouveau motifs or references to industrial architecture. The collections of the Lapidarium of Łódź Detal may also serve as an inspiration, documenting the richness of ornamentation of local buildings. The organisers emphasise that each of the courtyards should have an individual character and fit into the urban structure without losing its connection with the local context. The scope of the design includes not only the courtyards, but also the walls of outbuildings and tenement houses, passage gates, paving as well as greenery and landscaping elements. All designs must comply with the current local development plan.
Composition of the Competition Jury
The Competition Jury included: Robert Sobański (Acting Director of the Office of the City Architect), Beata Konieczniak (Deputy Director of the Office), Marek Lisiak (referee), as well as representatives of city institutions and universities, including Marek Janiak from the Institute of Architecture at the Technical University of Łódź, Marek Sak from the Academy of Fine Arts and Wiktor Wróblewski from the Society of Polish Town Planners. The presence of representatives from various backgrounds is intended to ensure a multi-faceted assessment of the submitted projects.
The schedule of the Urban Spaces competition
Those interested in participating in the competition can address questions to the organiser until 1 August 2025. Responses will be published by 8 August. The deadline for submitting competition entries is 22 September. The results will be announced by 10 October, and the award ceremony and post-competition discussion will take place by 17 October. Entries should be submitted to the Lodz Citizens’ Contact Centre at 110 Piotrkowska St. There are three financial prizes in the competition. The winner of first place will receive PLN 20,000, second place will be awarded PLN 18,000 and the winner of third place will receive PLN 12,000.
Source: City Hall of Łódź
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