Work on the construction of the metro in the capital of Malopolska is in full swing. Recently, almost a hundred conceptual posters illustrating the possible appearance of the entrance to the “Dworzec Główny” station were presented as part of a competition organised by the Krakow University of Technology. The initiative was aimed at fostering students’ creativity and inviting residents to reflect on how the metro (and especially its overground elements) can influence the shape of urban space.
The Krakow metro as a space for imagination
“What we saw exceeded our expectations. Creativity, courage and sensitivity to urban space – this is what the young architects demonstrated. This competition was not to select a design to be realised, but a vision that would stir the imagination and invite discussion. And they have succeeded” – assessed Stanisław Mazur, deputy mayor of Krakow.
The three best entries were awarded by a jury made up of representatives of the university and the city. The winners were Anna Bryksy, Jan Meres and Katarzyna Półchłopek. Distinctions were also awarded by Krakow’s Deputy Mayor and University Rector Andrzej Szarata. Additional prizes went to teams working under the supervision of Hanna Hrehorowicz-Gaber and Filip Suchoń.
Young designers with a vision
“More than 90 submitted works are proof that our students want to actively participate in shaping the future of the city. The projects were bold, unconventional and full of fresh ideas. They show how much creative potential there is in the young generation of designers,” – said Professor Andrzej Szarata, Rector of the Krakow University of Technology.
The projects of the young architects show different approaches to the subject. Anna Bryksa’s monumental form inspired by Brutalism combines symbolism with utilitarian function. Jan Meres referred to the tradition of stained glass, proposing a lightweight structure that reacts to light and its surroundings. It was his idea that attracted the most interest. Katarzyna Półchłopek’s concept, on the other hand, uses modern parametric architecture to create a dynamic structure inspired by an urban logo.
Aesthetics as a communication element
“The ideas of our students fit perfectly with the intentions of the competition. The underground exit in front of Krakow’s Central Station not only indicates the location of the underground station. It can be a viewing tower, a museum or even a stained-glass window, making the metro an element that shapes the public space of the city,” – noted Professor Magdalena Kozień-Woźniak, Dean of the Faculty of Architecture at the Krakow University of Technology.
The distinguished works were also awarded financially. They were recognised as a valuable voice in the debate on the aesthetics and function of urban transport infrastructure. The winning visions will be displayed in the city space. The exhibition will be presented by the tunnel leading towards Jan Nowak-Jeziorański Square and Krakow Central Station.
Metro in Krakow – residents’ voice in the urban debate
In addition, residents will be able to vote for one of the nominated proposals in an online poll conducted on the city’s profile. Voting will select the project to be honoured with the Residents’ Award.
“Although the concepts are ideological in nature, they can already inspire further action and be an important voice in the urban debate about public space. It is a great satisfaction for us that Krakow University of Technology is a place where ideas serving the entire urban community are born,” – added the university’s rector.
All of the 23 nominated works can be viewed on the city’s official Facebook profile.
source: UM Kraków / www.krakow.pl
Read also: Architecture in Poland | Public transport | Railway station | Ecology | Krakow
