Wolności Square in Łódź won first prize in the competition of the Society of Polish Town Planners for the best developed public space in Poland in 2024. The square gained a new functional layout and its central part more greenery. The project to redevelop the square was prepared by architects from A2P2 architecture & planning and mamArchitekci.
Wolności Square is one of the most important squares in the centre of Łódź. Its redevelopment has restored it to its former glory and it can now boldly be regarded as one of the architectural landmarks of the city.
Until recently, the square was a place that did not encourage people to stop. Criss-crossed by tram tracks and roadways, it was mainly used for transport. In addition, the concrete surface with minimal greenery made the place unfriendly, especially on hot days. The redevelopment, completed in spring 2024, has cleaned up the area and made it a friendly place for residents and tourists.
Wolności Square was established in the 1920s as the New Market at the end of Piotrkowska Street, still the longest street in Poland (over 4 km long). Initially, it served as a market and a stop for horse-drawn carriages. With the introduction of trams in 1898, it became a representative city square. In 1918, to commemorate the restoration of Poland’s independence, it was renamed “Freedom Square”. Underneath the Square is the “Tube”, an oval rainwater tank that can be visited.
The comprehensive redevelopment was carried out as part of the Revitalisation Programme for the Łódź City Centre Area. The concrete surface of the square was replaced with greenery: 64 trees, thousands of shrubs, grasses, perennials and bulbous plants. The surface was designed to direct as much rainwater as possible towards the green areas. They collect rainwater, reducing the need for artificial irrigation. The rain gardens allow rainwater to be retained within the Square, rather than being discharged into the sewer system. The diverse planting increases biodiversity and provides food for birds and insects.
The Great Monument to the People of Lodz, consisting of 600 plaques to mark the city’s 600th anniversary, is an interesting new tourist attraction.
The Competition Jury awarded the transformation of Liberty Square appreciating its impact on the life of the citizens of Łódź, who received an attractive, comfortable and safe space in the city centre,” reads the justification on the competition website.
photos: Rafał Tomczyk
design: A2P2, mamArchitekci
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