Because architecture matters

Here we take a look at seven commercial projects on which building work has begun this year and which have all been nominated for the Architectural design of the year, Poland. Which one will win? We have handed the voting over to you, the participants of the Eurobuild Awards gala. On December 8th in the Hilton Warsaw Hotel you will have the opportunity to vote for one of these projects at one of the most important events on the real estate market in the CEE region. May the best design win!

Aquarius Business House
Location: Wrocław, ul. Borowska/ul. Swobodna

The prestigious location of the Aquarius Business House office complex near the historical centre of Wrocław represented a true challenge for the architectural studio. The lightness of the buildings is emphasised by the design of the façade, which not only accounts for the building's visual effect but also allows for the natural lighting to be controlled inside the building. Because of its length and location on the street, the design of the façade is varied but does not overwhelm the onlooker. The office space is open-plan, providing its occupants with flexibility in terms of the interior design as well as in terms of their working environment.

Architectural Studio: Arcad is a Kielce-based architectural studio that specialises in the design of civil engineering facilities. It offers a package of design services for the entire investment process.
Developer: Echo Investment
Total area: around 41,800 sqm
Completion of construction: (first phase) November 2012

Galeria Amber
Location: Kalisz, ul. Górnośląska

The main architectural feature of the building is its jewel-like corner, which is composed of orange glass panels. This is the feature that gives the mall its name: 'Galeria Amber'. It is to form a focal point closing the end of ul. Górnośląska, one of the city's main arteries leading from the Old Town. The architects devoted much of their attention to the ground level: along the pavements and pedestrian walkways the building is open and lined with attractive shop windows, as well as lively restaurants and street cafés. The shell of the building is divided into smaller areas, by means of pilasters, changes in elevation, materials and also lighting features. The modern character of the shopping centre's architecture complements the neighbouring buildings as well as the nearby public facilities.
Architectural Studio: Artur Jasiński i Wspólnicy is a Kraków-based architectural studio with a strong reputation for creativity, excellence and the effectiveness of its design solutions. Over the last 10 years the company has received over 20 awards and distinctions in national and international competitions.
Developer: Echo Investment
Total area: 88,000 sqm
Completion of construction: May 2013

Green Towers
Location: Wrocław, ul. Strzegomska

Green Towers is being built by Skanska Property Poland. The project comprises two office buildings linked by a two-storey underground car park. The base plan is rectangular with centrally located lift cores, two staircases and a vertical service space. In compliance with the investor's wishes, the Green Towers office complex has systems and installations that regulate energy use, protect the natural environment and enhance the well-being of the people inside the building. An excellent working environment is ensured with the maximum utilisation of sunlight while reducing glare and with high air quality inside the building. The Green Towers project received LEED pre-certification with a 'platinum' rating.

Architectural Studio: Maćków Pracownia Projektowa. The company was founded at the beginning of 1995. It currently specialises in residential and public buildings, as well as industrial projects.
Developer: Skanska Property Poland
Total area: over 42,050 sqm
Completion of construction: (first phase) Q1, 2012

Oxygen Park
Location: Warsaw, Al. Jerozolimskie/ul. Jutrzenki

Oxygen Park is a class 'A' office project that consists of two six-storey buildings with a green internal patio. The project, which has a total leasable area of 18,300 sqm, will be marked by its high functionality as well as its modern architecture. Green areas are planned both inside and outside the building. Garden features are to play a key role, such as low walls, hedgerows, shrubs and lawns. On ul. Jutrzenki as well as from the courtyard side, the building will have tilt windows for fresh air ventilation. The glazed façade along the length of the building will provide natural light for all the offices. Yareal Polska has applied for a BREEAM certificate for the building.

Architectural Studio: JEMS Architekci was established in 1988, but the architectural team headed by JEMS' partners has been in practice continuously since 1980, as one of the first private architectural firms to emerge on the Warsaw market.
Developer: Yareal Polska
Total area: 18,300 sqm
Completion of construction: 2013

Platinium Business Park V
Location: Warsaw, ul. Domaniewska

Platinium Business Park V is to be constructed from materials that increase energy efficiency and enable heating and air conditioning systems to operate with maximum efficiency. The building is to be equipped with tilt windows, suspended floors and ceilings, an integrated lighting system, air conditioning with individual temperature controls, full cabling and a state-of-the-art building management system. Platinium Business Park V was designed to achieve efficient use of office space, providing tenants with significant savings on utility costs, combined with a pleasant and friendly working environment.

Architectural Studio: Grupa 5 specialises in office and public utility buildings, as well as residential projects. The company employs around 40 architects and works with major engineering firms.
Developer: Globe Trade Centre
Total area: over 14,000 sqm
Completion of construction: Q2 2012

Renaissance by Marriott
Location: Warsaw, ul. Żwirki i Wigury

The hotel is to stand opposite the main exit from the passenger terminal of Warsaw's Chopin Airport. Elements of the building are designed to evoke aeronautical forms. The gentle curves of the building are to emphasise the aerodynamic shape of the building.

Architectural Studio: JEMS Architekci was established in 1988, but the architectural team headed by JEMS' partners has been in practice continuously since 1980, as one of the first private architectural firms to emerge on the Warsaw market.
Developer: 'Polish Airports' State Enterprise (PPL)
Total area: 22,440 sqm
Completion of construction: Q4 2012

Warsaw Spire
Location: Warsaw, ul. Towarowa

Warsaw Spire is a unique office complex in the centre of Warsaw. The project, which is being constructed to the requirements of BREEAM eco-certification, is to comprise a 220m tower and two 55m side buildings. It will offer app. 100,000 sqm of modern office space as well as over 1,200 underground parking spaces. Warsaw Spire is distinguished by its new approach to urban space management. The vast internal patio is to be filled with greenery, small architectural features and fountains. On the ground floors of the lower buildings restaurants, cafés, boutiques and shopping will be available.

Architectural Studio: M. & J-M. Jaspers - J. Eyers & Partners is a global practice offering full service in architecture, master-planning, space planning, building analysis and interior design.
Developer: Ghelamco Poland
Total area: app. 100,000 sqm
Completion of construction: 2013/2014