The University of Warsaw’s Student House No. 7 is not only a living space for 382 students, but above all a carefully designed facility that, with its modern form, functionality and balanced aesthetics, brings a new quality to the academic landscape. The building is distinguished not only by its architecture, but by a visual identification system that intuitively guides residents to the zones in question. The visual information system was prepared by Alina Rybacka-Gruszczyńska and Wojtek Staniewski.
Student House No. 7 is the first new dormitory at the University of Warsaw in nearly 60 years. The building was recently awarded a distinction in the Architectural Award of the President of the City of Warsaw competition in the residential architecture category. The building, housing 138 residential units – 16 of which are fully adapted to the needs of people with disabilities – is an example of how architecture can combine practicality with artistic expression, responding to contemporary social and cultural needs.
Graphic concept
The graphic design of the dormitory’s visual identity is based on a set of geometric forms that are skilfully composed on a modular grid. This method has made it possible to design successive motifs made up of elements that unfold in layers, creating a dynamic yet orderly composition. In this context, highly abstract symbols such as the circle, triangle or square function as universal and neutral visual elements that best convey the idea of a place that is a temporary home for representatives of various cultures. This conscious approach, which dispenses with trends and fashions, guarantees the timelessness of the entire concept, which is not subject to changing trends.
Visual consistency is maintained through the use of a modular grid, which gives structure not only to the graphic elements but also to the architectural space. The layering of motifs, based on a basic geometry, allows the concept to be applied flexibly in a variety of functional contexts – from staircase signage to the visual identification of promotional materials. This modular organisation ensures consistency and ease of adaptation, which is invaluable in a building that dynamically integrates the residential environment with aesthetic elements.
Typography: modernity in words
The primary visual communication tool is the contemporary typeface Good Headline Pro. Its open forms and easily distinguishable characters not only emphasise the functionality of the overall identity, but also harmonise with the architecture of the building. The simplicity and legibility of this typeface are in perfect harmony with the minimalist approach to forms that guides the entire project. To complement the basic aesthetic, the decorative, futuristic Neue Machine typeface was chosen, which is used, among other things, in the notation of floor numbers. This accent gives the whole building a modern feel, while emphasising the uniqueness of the building as a place where tradition meets the future.
Universal form
The dormitory’s visual identity was created with users representing a variety of cultures in mind. This is why it was important that the graphic design should not only be aesthetically pleasing, but above all universal and meaning-neutral. The abstract symbols and the structured communication setting allow users to interpret the space themselves and create a personal relationship with the place. In this way, the visual record of Student House No. 7 not only emphasises its functionality, but also enables an open, inclusive interpretation that fosters the building of a university community.
Visual information system: Alina Rybacka-Gruszczyńska and Wojtek Staniewski
Illustrations: Alina Rybacka-Gruszczyńska
Architecture and interior design: Projekt Praga ( Patrycja Arasim, Agata Bonisławska, Bartek Dudziński, Marcin Garbacki, Damian Kasperowicz, Katarzyna Krokos, Malwina Mąka, Joanna Ryżko, Kinga Rzeplińska, Zuzanna Sprogis, Zofia Stachura, Michał Sztolcman, Karolina Tunajek, Jacek Wochowski)
Landscaping: PASA Design
Photography: Nate Cook, ONI Studio, Alina Rybacka
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