After almost six decades of waiting, the University of Warsaw can now boast a modern dormitory that not only offers comfortable living and studying conditions, but above all has been designed to foster interaction and build bonds between students. Student House No. 7 by the Projekt Praga studio is an example of an innovative approach to academic space, where functionality and aesthetics go hand in hand with the idea of creating a friendly environment conducive to personal and social development.
Student House – project selected in a competition
The design of the new dormitory, selected through an architectural competition, emphasised the needs of future residents from the outset. Consultations with experts, students and representatives of the academic community made it possible to create a concept that fits perfectly into the context of the Służewiec Campus and responds to the real expectations of students. The winning proposal by the Projekt Praga studio, realised after nearly three years of construction, is proof that thoughtful architecture can actively support the building of an academic community.
Photo by Nate Cook
UW Student House – windmill layout
A key element of the project is its unusual windmill-plan layout, which is a conscious departure from the anonymous, long corridors familiar from traditional student residences. Instead, Project Prague has proposed intimate neighbourhood units where students can more easily get to know each other and form closer relationships. The central atrium, illuminating the interior with natural light, becomes a natural place to meet and integrate. In addition, the dormitory opens up to the surrounding greenery, and themed courtyards such as a mini amphitheatre, sports area and relaxation zone have been designed between the wings to offer a variety of opportunities to spend time together.
Communal spaces at the heart of integration
The new dormitory offers a variety of living units, from two-bedroom segments to flats for doctoral students and professors, taking into account the needs of people with disabilities. It is the communal spaces, however, that make it unique. On each floor, there are two-storey kitchens with dining areas and study rooms for both individual and group study. The ground floor is where students can use the common room, a sports hall with an outdoor plaza and laundry facilities. All this is designed to encourage interaction and spending time together.
Minimalist aesthetics and interior functionality
The minimalist aesthetic of the interiors, with a rust-red colour theme, creates a cosy and homely atmosphere. High-quality materials and ergonomic furniture ensure comfort and functionality. Importantly, the dormitory’s design is based on environmentally friendly and sustainable solutions, which minimises its environmental impact and running costs. Student House No. 7 is also an example of fully accessible architecture. The absence of architectural barriers, clear navigation and the adaptation of all common areas to the needs of people with disabilities make it an open and welcoming space for everyone.
About the authors
Projekt Praga is an architectural office founded in 2010 by Karolina Tunajek and Marcin Garbacki. Initially specialising in revitalisation, spaces for art and interior design, it now focuses mainly on public buildings. The studio is based in the former library pavilion at Skaryszewski Park in Warsaw’s Kamionek district. The team consists of more than a dozen architects with diverse experience, which allows for a comprehensive and committed approach to the projects undertaken.
Project: Praga Project
Design Team: Karolina Tunajek, Marcin Garbacki, Jacek Wochowski, Patrycja Arasim, Agata Bonisławska, Bartek Dudziński, Damian Kasperowicz, Katarzyna Krokos, Malwina Mąka, Joanna Ryżko, Kinga Rzeplińska, Zuzanna Sprogis, Zofia Stachura, Michał Sztolcman
Construction: PF Projekt
Installations: Studio Klima
Landscaping: PASA Design
Visual identity: Alina Rybacka and Wojtek Staniewski
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