Floriańska. Warsaw

As the guiding theme of the concept, we embraced the unique atmosphere of Praga — a place where the old blends with the new, where the urban character meets wild pathways, an atmospheric district of the city with great potential, especially in the face of climate change.

Praga creates conditions for social, cultural, and biological diversity — all of which are key to urban resilience. Its public spaces should foster human connections, encourage encounters, prevent exclusion and loneliness, and support local initiatives and everyday neighborly interactions.

Public space should remain inclusive and resilient, not only in the face of the climate crisis but also against gentrification.

The structure of streets and squares, the rhythm of trees, the layout of greenery — all of these form a framework that accommodates people, animals, and plants. We must care for the city as one of the living environments, striving for a balance between green areas and hardened surfaces.

Flexibility, multifunctionality, and adaptability of space — the ability to use the space in various ways will ensure its long-term functionality and open up opportunities for creativity and artistic activities.

The project’s primary goal is to create an accessible, inclusive, and functional environment for all users—regardless of age, physical ability, or sensory and cognitive differences. Based on universal design principles, legal regulations, and the Accessibility Standards of the City of Warsaw, the concept addresses the needs of a wide range of users, including people with disabilities, neurodivergent individuals (e.g. those on the autism spectrum, with ADHD, or sensory sensitivities), seniors, children, caregivers with strollers, and those with temporary mobility limitations.

The design prioritizes the reuse of materials from dismantled hard surfaces—such as paving stones, curbs, and asphalt or concrete elements—which will be recycled for road and sidewalk foundations and permeable layers within the water retention system. This sustainable approach reduces construction waste and material costs.

Energy-efficient LED lighting will minimize light pollution by focusing illumination on pedestrian and traffic zones, supported by smart controls to optimize energy use.

Landscaping will feature layered, biodiverse vegetation composed of drought-tolerant, urban-adapted species. This will reduce maintenance, enhance ecological corridors, and contribute to urban biodiversity, temperature regulation, noise reduction, humidity increase, and improved air quality.

A water retention system supported by permeable surfaces will reduce irrigation needs and surface runoff.

A small composting station at Veterans’ Square will process organic plant waste for use as fertilizer, further supporting local ecosystems.