Modernism in Łódź has left behind many realisations that still attract attention today with their simplicity of form and elegant detailing. One of the most characteristic examples of this trend is the tenement house standing at Zielona 25, known primarily for its unusual staircase in a style reminiscent of art déco. It is this that gives the building its unique character and makes it one of the most interesting inter-war buildings in the city.
Green 25 – history and design
The building was commissioned by Judy Salomonowicz, an entrepreneur from Łódź, and erected on the site of former factory buildings. Work began in May 1936. The first design envisaged a three- and four-storey building with risalits both at the front and in the courtyard. As early as June 1936, the concept was changed, increasing the height to five storeys and reducing the number of risalits to the rear. In 1938, the central section of the façade was also redesigned. The documentation was signed by the architect Henryk Lewinson.
The building was created with wealthy tenants in mind, which can be seen in both its form and high standard of finish. From the outset, it was an example of modern architecture, combining functionality with decorative touches inspired by art déco. Today, the building is listed in the municipal register of monuments of Łódź.
Architecture of the Judy Salomonowicz tenement house in Łódź
The tenement has an L-shaped plan. On the side of Zielona Street, its façade is decorated with two risalits, and there is one additional one on the side of the courtyard. The entrance is from Gdańska Street, along the northern gable wall, while the main entrance is at the front. The building has four floors and a basement, and 38 flats of various sizes are planned inside. The larger ones have been fitted with separate entrances for servants, emphasising the luxurious nature of the development. The ground floor is used for three commercial premises with large shop windows in the risalits. There are two staircases in the building: an ordinary staircase for circulation and a representative staircase designed as an atrium with skylight in the roof.
The most beautiful staircase in Łódź
It is the staircase that attracts the most attention and makes the building unique. Its composition is based on the rhythm and symmetry typical of 1930s modernism, but at the same time enriched with decorative art déco elements. The floors and landings are tiled in geometric patterns with a juxtaposition of light and dark tones. The steps are made of dark stone, contrasting with the light-coloured walls. The brass railings and handrails have simple yet elegant lines with subtle geometric details.
The most important element, however, remains the light. A central skylight in the roof fills the space with a natural glow that spills over to all floors, creating a sense of lightness, luxury and grandeur. This solution was one of the modern and prestigious, and today it is one of the most interesting examples in Łódź.
Tenement house Green 25 – style and significance
The tenement house at Zielona 25 is a testament to late Lodz modernism, where functionality was combined with art déco elegance. The building set new housing standards, meeting the expectations of the city’s economic elite. Originally, the facades were clad with artificial stone panels imitating red sandstone, and the ground floor was decorated with vertical grooves in the plaster. Unfortunately, these details did not survive the thermo-modernisation. Despite this, the building still remains one of the most representative examples of interwar residential architecture in Lodz, and its staircase is considered the most beautiful in the city.
Source: lodz.pl
Read also: Łódź | Tenement | Detail | Modernism | whiteMAD on Instagram
