The revitalisation of urban space in the centre of Warsaw has taken on a new dimension with the completion of the redevelopment of the square in front of the Palace of Culture and Science. Thanks to intensive works, the once austere concrete area of Defilad Square has gained a second life as the vibrant green heart of the capital. The New Central Square is an investment that is part of the construction of the New Centre of Warsaw. The new green space has just opened.
Green transformation in the city centre
The architectural and landscaping changes were aimed not only at refreshing the aesthetics, but also at restoring the historic character of the area. The designers focused on extensive planting – more than 100 trees, nearly 550 shrubs and more than 81,000 bulbous and perennial plants were planted in the newly created Central Square. In addition, 106 benches and seats were set up to allow residents to spend time comfortably outdoors. On the underground level, four retention basins have been designed to collect rainwater and later use it to water the plants.
Central Square. A tribute to the past
The Central Square construction project combines modernity with the historical identity of Warsaw’s Downtown. The pavement layout reflects the outlines of pre-war streets and buildings. The surface consists of five different types of stone. The outlines of the former buildings were made of large-format stone slabs. The former courtyards have been covered with cobblestones in the form of re-used paving blocks from the Parade Square, which are supplemented in places by granite slabs from around the former stand of honour. The 1939 street layout is reminiscent of strips laid with granite paving blocks.
These tall trees planted here will provide shade on sunny days, while the extensive lawns will offer a peaceful place to sit, relax and chat. But at the same time, this place is a living map of memory. Because when we step on these alleys of Polish granite, we do not forget the past; because this square reproduces the street grid from before the war. So, in a sense, we will be walking along the streets of pre-war Warsaw, which no longer exist, i.e. streets such as Zielna or Wielka,” said Rafał Trzaskowski, Mayor of Warsaw, during a press conference at the Central Square.
Apart from the aesthetic and historical aspect, Central Square was designed with functionality in mind. The municipal authorities want it to become a place for everyday meetings of residents and a space that is conducive to the organisation of cultural events. Musical attractions are already planned for the opening day.
This is what the place looked like BEFORE the redevelopment:
The architects integrated the existing grandstand of honour into the square so that it refers to the post-war history of the site. At the same time, they gave it a new dimension. The grandstand has been greened with small trees and flowerbeds on the steps facing the palace. The upper level was made suitable for a stage. That is why the architects planned the part of the square between the grandstand and Marszałkowska Street as a zone for mass events.
Combining functionality and aesthetics
After dark, the square will be illuminated not only by new lanterns, but also by eight antique candelabras. Four stand in front of the main entrance to the palace, another four in niches by the Drama Theatre and the Studio Theatre. We wrote more about them HERE.
The designers have taken care of every detail – from the choice of materials used, to the new network of pavements, to the anti-compression installations that support the growth of the trees. A systematic network of water supply pipelines has been placed beneath the surface of the square, ensuring that the plantings immediately receive the ‘nourishment’ necessary for the rapid growth and survival of the vegetation.
The project for the redevelopment of the site in front of the Palace of Culture and Science was prepared by the architectural studio A-A Collective.
source: Warsaw City Hall
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