The design by RIL Studio won first prize in the competition for the Local and Library Activity Centre (MALiB) in Piaseczno, impressing the judging panel with its analysis of the historic context, clear functional structure, and architecture that combines restraint with timelessness. The winning entry received the full support of all seven judges in the first stage of the assessment and scored five out of seven points in the final vote.
The starting point for RIL Studio’s concept was the historic dairy, whose architectural and compositional qualities were treated as the foundation of the entire scheme. The architects recognised the symmetry of the historic structure and façades, and subsequently used it as an organising principle for the new development. The extension was positioned axially in relation to the existing building, creating a coherent, clear layout in which the relationship between the old and the new is natural and logical.
The new structure references the dairy not only in its composition, but also in its height and the horizontal division of the façade. As a result, the whole retains a scale appropriate to the site, whilst meeting the functional requirements without overshadowing the historic building.
A space open to the city
The designed building occupies the eastern part of the site, forming the frontage along Dworcowa Street, whilst to the west it opens onto a large green square connected to the grounds of the Educational and Multimedia Centre. It is precisely this relationship with the CEM that has become key to the spatial layout – the green area in front of MALiB has been conceived as a natural extension of the open public spaces, reinforcing the integration of both buildings.
The central element of the composition is a two-storey glass link that connects the old and new parts of the building. It houses reception facilities, a passageway accessible from both sides, and a library – the symbolic heart of MALiB. The transparent structure not only spatially integrates the entire building but also emphasises the distinct character of the historic dairy, highlighting its qualities.
Clear division of functions
The building’s programme has been divided into two main blocks. Public functions – the gallery, library, Fab Lab and multi-purpose hall – are located in the new section and the southern half of the dairy. The northern part of the historic building is designated for administrative functions, with a separate entrance and circulation based on the original staircase.
Particular attention is drawn to the multi-purpose hall with its amphitheatre-style seating, whose upper and lower levels connect to the ground floor and basement respectively. The side galleries, separated by movable screens, serve an exhibition function in line with the MALiB programme, and their location by the glazed façades ensures a visual connection with the outdoor space. The hall also has a separate entrance on the south side, enabling it to operate independently during events.
A Fab Lab is planned for the first floor, the layout of which can be flexibly modified thanks to a long-span structure – the same one used in the multi-purpose hall. This solution addresses the need to create spaces capable of adapting to future activities that are as yet unknown.
Justification of the verdict
The Competition Jury awarded the first prize for the accurate recognition of the historic building’s potential and the creation of a functional and architectural layout that allows the old and the new to mutually enhance each other’s qualities. The Jury highlighted the restrained, simple style of the proposed architecture, which is resistant to passing fashions, as well as the building’s modest scale, which has been preserved despite the extensive programme.
The rational functional layout, the well-considered placement of individual functions, and the flexibility of the space—which can serve as a backdrop for many forms of local activity—were also commended.
Recommendations for further work
The Competition Jury also identified areas requiring further refinement. The recommendations included: analysing the possibility of reducing glazing to improve energy efficiency, improving the organisation of service facilities, better connectivity between the lower level of the multi-purpose hall and the ground floor, verification of the design’s compliance with civil protection regulations, and consideration of the construction of an entrance portico to the dairy whilst respecting its historical form.
design: RIL STUDIO Architectural Practice
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