Łódź has completed a comprehensive renovation of the building at 41 Kopernika Street, which for years served as an educational institution. The historic edifice has regained its long-lost splendour and begun a new chapter in its history. After more than two years of conservation and renovation work, it has been transformed into an intimate residential building.
History of the school at 41 Kopernika Street
The history of the building dates back to around 1915. It was originally built with a residential function in mind, but its purpose changed a few years later. In 1925-1926, the building was modernised according to the design of architect Józef Kaban, during which it was adapted to the needs of the State Commercial Female School. The educational character of the place was maintained over the following decades. Łódź residents still remember the activities of the Railway School Complex (Zespołu Szkół Kolejowych), which operated here until 2002. After the closure of the institution, the building was handed over to a private investor. The investor undertook a comprehensive renovation to preserve the historic building and to give it a new function.
An architectural gem made beautiful again
The renovation began in 2022 and completely changed the image of the building. The building had been neglected and deteriorating for years, but now attracts attention with its elegant light-coloured façade, new woodwork and adapted basement. The snow-white façade stands out clearly from the neighbouring buildings, which are also in need of renovation. Particularly noteworthy are the meticulously restored architectural details. The most impressive is the classicist frieze with an image of hippogriffs, placed above the windows of the top floor.
Tailored interior
Great changes have also taken place in the interior. Transforming the former school into a residential building required a complete reorganisation of the functional layout. A total of 18 flats of between 30 and 40 square metres were created on three floors. These are mainly for singles and couples and meet modern expectations in terms of standard. On the ground floor, however, two commercial premises have been set aside for retail and service activities. This will further enliven the street space.
The monument at 41 Kopernika Street in a new way
Thanks to a successful investment, the building at 41 Kopernika Street has been given a second life. Although it no longer serves an educational function, it still exists in the city’s landscape and serves its inhabitants. In addition, it has become an example of the successful combination of heritage conservation and adaptation to new needs. Contemporary Łódź, full of the architectural legacy of decades ago, is increasingly reaching for such solutions, appreciating the potential of architecture with history.
Source: lodz.pl
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The building at 41 Kopernika Street before and after renovation. Photo: Google Maps and lodz.pl
