On the site of the former Gdańsk Shipyard – a place with a unique history and of immense significance not only to the residents of the Tri-City – a development has been created that demonstrates a new approach to rental accommodation. Resi4Rent Gdańsk Stocznia is a project firmly rooted in the post-industrial character of Młode Miasto, creating contemporary developments that are embedded in the site’s history. What makes this development stand out?
More and more people do not want to be tied down by a long-term mortgage or face the uncertainty that often accompanies private rental. Young professionals, students, singles, couples and families are now looking for solutions that offer freedom, predictability and security in their day-to-day lives. Resi4Rent Gdańsk Stocznia is not just another offering on the Tri-City rental market, but above all a modern model of urban living, where the accommodation, service, communal areas and stable rules come together to form a cohesive service tailored to the changing needs of the market.
Architecture that honours history
The new Resi4Rent complex was developed in collaboration with Grupa 5 Architekci, whose portfolio includes numerous residential and public-use projects across the country. In Gdańsk, the firm was responsible for the design of a complex comprising two eight-storey buildings, which were planned to blend seamlessly into the complex context of the New Town. The project was developed in close collaboration with the conservation officer, enabling the successful reconciliation of contemporary architectural solutions with heritage conservation requirements. The architects did not seek to create a historicist setting here, but were keen for the new buildings to capture the atmosphere of the former shipyard, hence, amongst other things, the ceramic-tiled façades, which evoke traditional brickwork, and the large, industrial-style windows reminiscent of the production halls that once stood in the area.
– The site of the former Gdańsk Shipyard is one of the most important places on the map of Poland, which is why we knew from the outset that we could not design our development here in isolation from its history and surroundings. However, we did not want to recreate the past merely as decoration. We wanted architecture that stems from the character of this place, but speaks a contemporary language. This translated into specific design decisions, including lowering part of the building’s volume to preserve the view of the historic structures. “This has resulted in a development with its own character, well-integrated into its surroundings and designed with the residents’ everyday comfort in mind,” says Sławomir Imianowski, CEO of Resi4Rent.
The top storeys are clad in Corten steel, which harmonises naturally with the rust-coloured façade of the European Solidarity Centre, whilst the arcades feature blue sheet metal, reminiscent of the old shipyard gates. These are subtle yet distinctive references that help shape the identity of this place. The building’s volume facing Doki Street has been deliberately lowered to preserve unobstructed views of the BHP Hall and the shipyard cranes. As a result, the new development does not dominate the historic buildings, but engages in a dialogue with them, complementing them with a contemporary design language. The compact layout of the quarter organises the space of Młode Miasto, whilst the internal courtyard acts as a natural buffer between the buildings and urban traffic. Set in this way, the buildings are a delight not only to casual passers-by but also to architecture enthusiasts.
Everyday convenience
Resi4Rent Gdańsk Stocznia demonstrates that investments in Poland’s Private Rented Sector (PRS) are maturing. They are no longer solely about providing accommodation, but about creating a comfortable living environment, with a view to long-term occupancy and community. The two newly constructed buildings on Nowomiejska Street house 569 units available under a subscription-based rental scheme, catering to the diverse needs and life stages of future tenants, ranging from compact ResiStudio units, through two-room ResiComfort and ResiComfort units, to the larger ResiFamily flats.
The project extends beyond the flats themselves, as communal spaces play a major role in shaping the day-to-day experience. Two viewing terraces have been designed on the roofs of the buildings, serving as places to relax and fostering neighbourly relationships. Inside, there is a co-working space, a spacious lobby and a green patio – places that naturally extend the private space of the flats and meet contemporary needs, such as those of people working remotely. The building also houses a medical centre, whilst shops, restaurants and service outlets are available in the immediate vicinity. These solutions are in line with the concept of the ‘15-minute city’, where everyday errands can be run without long journeys.
When designing the interiors of the communal areas, the designers chose materials and details that subtly reference the shipyard’s heritage whilst creating an atmosphere reminiscent of modern hospitality spaces. This is particularly important in the case of subscription-based flats, where it is not just the location that counts, but above all a well-designed environment for everyday living.
– Our clients increasingly value predictability, which is why, with the Resi4Rent Gdańsk Stocznia project, we are the first in Poland to introduce a single fixed fee that also covers utilities – namely electricity, heating and water. Tenants know in advance exactly how much they will pay, without having to keep track of bills, meter readings or seasonal fluctuations in costs. But predictability is only part of the service. The flats are furnished and ready to move into straight away, with a clear tenancy agreement, support from a customer advisor, and access to communal spaces that extend your private living area. Coworking spaces, a lobby, a green patio or viewing terraces allow residents to work comfortably, relax, meet neighbours or simply change their surroundings without leaving the building. All of this contributes to the day-to-day experience of a place where it’s easier to feel at home, ” says Alicja Kościesza, Sales and Marketing Director at Resi4Rent.
A tribute to the place
In Młode Miasto, it is difficult to design without reference to history. Within the development, history is evoked by the sculpture ‘Three Workers’, which alludes to the events of August 1980 and tells a story of collective experience, the strength of community and the people who shaped history. The sculpture does not take the form of a traditional monument; it is openwork and light, making it seem more present in the space rather than imposing itself on the viewer. ‘Three Workers’ thus becomes part of the everyday landscape for local residents, whilst also serving as a symbolic link between the past and the present.
–Creating new architecture in the immediate vicinity of the European Solidarity Centre means working in a place that is one of the most important symbolic landmarks of Poland’s contemporary history. In such a location, architecture must be very conscious of its role; it must not dominate, but should organise the space and provide a backdrop for the existing landmarks. “Our aim was to design a space that would blend naturally into this part of the city and form part of a new chapter in the history of the shipyard area,” says Rafał Grzelewski from the Grupa 5 Architekci practice.
Sustainability as standard
At Resi4Rent Gdańsk Stocznia, solutions have also been implemented to support the sustainable operation of the buildings. Green roofs, often referred to as the ‘fifth façade’, have been designed to resemble urban meadows. They retain some of the rainwater, promote biodiversity and help to reduce the urban heat island effect. At the same time, they improve the buildings’ insulation, thereby helping to maintain a stable temperature in both summer and winter, which also has a positive impact on reducing energy consumption.
The Energy of the Young City
The development’s location in Młode Miasto means that places which today define the character of the Shipyard – 100czni, Montownia, Elektryków Street and the Museum of the Second World War – are just a few minutes’ walk away. The proximity of the tram stop and the Stocznia SKM station ensures convenient connections throughout the entire metropolitan area. The Resi4Rent project in Gdańsk Shipyard proves that the architecture of rental flats can be ambitious, context-sensitive and designed with longevity in mind. This is a development that does not simply replicate existing models, but creates a new standard based on its relationship with the city and the history of the site, whilst also taking into account the needs of today’s residents. A project has been developed in Młode Miasto that not only responds to the changing expectations of the private rental sector (PRS) but also helps shape the future of this part of Gdańsk.
More information: www.r4r.pl.
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