Służewiec Przemysłowy is one of those districts of Warsaw that, in recent years, has been transformed from an area full of office blocks into a mixed-use neighbourhood that is resident-friendly. When talking about Służewiec, it is impossible not to mention the Modern Mokotów development, designed by BBGK Architekci. The first phase of the development, on the site of the former Empark Mokotów complex, was completed at the end of 2025.
The history of the office ‘Mordor’
The history of Industrial Służewiec is a mirror image of the changing functions of this part of Warsaw. Before the Second World War, the area was dominated by agricultural land, which was replaced in the 1950s by the Southern Industrial and Warehousing District. Following the political transformation, another wave of change began. In the 1990s, one of Poland’s largest office hubs, colloquially known as ‘Mordor’, sprang up in the area. Every day it attracted thousands of workers, and once the working day was over, the area quickly emptied.
Modern Mokotów replaces the Empark complex
The transformation began with the development of the Modern Mokotów project. On the site of the Empark Mokotów complex, a residential and commercial development with public green spaces is being built. The masterplan was drawn up by BBGK Architekci, a practice founded by Jan Brzozowski, Konrad Grabowiecki and Wojciech Kotecki. The project is based on the concept of the ‘15-minute city’ and on experience gained whilst working on the Warsaw Social District, developed in collaboration with urban planners, housing and public transport experts, and local government officials.
Modern Mokotów: a new street layout and more green spaces
The architects have transformed the former industrial site into smaller blocks on a scale similar to that of Old Mokotów. A row of buildings with retail premises on the ground floors is being built along Wołoska Street, whilst two distinctive buildings will rise at either end of the development. A pedestrian route has been created between them, running through the estate. Along this route, there will be public squares, playgrounds, recreational areas and semi-private courtyards. The project is complemented by a range of flats of varying sizes.
Służewiec’s green transformation
One of the biggest changes is the reclamation of land previously occupied by car parks. A concrete area of around 3 hectares has been replaced by green spaces and recreational areas. A 1.5-hectare linear park is being created along Wołoska Street, whilst cars have been relocated to underground car parks. The development also includes a cycle path between Domaniewska and Marynarska Streets, over 3,600 cycle parking spaces, and a primary school for 450 pupils funded by the developer.
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About BBGK Architekci:
BBGK Architekci specialises in residential, urban planning and public utility projects, as well as the conservation of historic buildings. The practice is led by Jan Brzozowski, Konrad Grabowiecki and Wojciech Kotecki, and the team comprises over 50 architects. Among its best-known projects is the Katyn Museum, opened in 2015, which was a finalist for the Mies van der Rohe European Union Prize in 2017. Modern Mokotów is another example of the practice’s work focused on the development of contemporary cities.
design: BBGK Architekci
client: Modern Mokotów – Archicom
photo: Nate Cook
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