The Market Square in Gorzów Wielkopolski

The market square in Gorzów Wielkopolski has a difficult history. Completely bombed during the Second World War, it was rebuilt in the PRL era using standard prefabricated panel buildings with low aesthetic value. One frontage is formed by an interesting building of the Cooperative Department Store, colloquially called Kokos. In the center of the square dominates the historic cathedral. It may be the only old town square in the world framed by PRL-era frontages. This shameful past is worth turning into an asset! 

The market square in Gorzów Wielkopolski should become an authentic witness of history. It should not obscure, distort, or falsify history. We believe this place has a chance to become a unique space due to its history and the truth it proclaims through designed space. The square is formed by PRL-era buildings whose facades were later altered by adding fake decorations and ornaments and repainted to imitate the architecture of past eras. We decided to revitalize these frontages in such a way that they would be an authentic testimony of their history, while also elevating their aesthetics to the level of contemporary art through the use of the latest technologies, so that they become a contribution to the culture of shaping the space of our times. We also believe that the monolithic surroundings of the square will provide an excellent frame for the historic Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the middle of the square – the oldest church in the city. Currently, in our opinion, the square’s frontages convey falsehood and chaos. They are worthless imitations that do not match the dignity and seriousness of the place. 

The Cooperative Department Store – Kokos – we propose to restore to its original form. To remove unnecessary shutters added in later years. We also propose that this building be included on the list of protected sites. In the future, a new functional use could also be considered – e.g., cultural. 

For the remaining buildings – prefabricated panel apartment blocks – we designed a layout of concrete tiles forming a new facade. Custom-made tiles, produced from pigmented concrete, constitute a key element of our architectural concept. The concrete square tiles directly refer both to the prefabricated panels of the PRL era and to the characteristic facade of the Kokos building. 

The inspiration for the concrete tile layout is the modularity of the PRL prefabricated panels, whose approximate dimension of 3 x 3 meters has been transferred to the detail level of the new facade. The mosaics form subtle gradients of smaller tiles measuring 25 cm x 25 cm, which are arranged into larger squares of 3 x 3 meters. Thanks to precise color coordination, these larger squares also create gradients, giving the facades a dynamic yet elegant and contemporary character. 

The tiles are kept in a neutral gray tone, but are also partially enriched with subtle warm shades: a mixture of pastel tones oscillating between sandy, brick, and gray colors. These color accents form a delicate extension and background for the iconic sandy-colored Kokos building and the neighboring brick church. The color scheme of the facades does not compete with the historic architectural landmarks but subtly complements them, introducing order and harmony into the square. Each mosaic segment of 3 x 3 m consists of only two different shades of tiles freely arranged among each other, so the execution of the designed layout will not be a difficult challenge, even though our 3 x 3 m mosaic module may initially appear as a composition of tiles with a wide tonal range. 

The concrete mosaic, thanks to the use of point lighting in the corners of the 3 x 3 m modules, gains an additional aesthetic and functional dimension. It speaks of history but also creates a completely new, almost futuristic space in the square, which can be controlled to adapt to the needs of the city or thematic occasions. The planned arrangement of LED points placed in the corners of the squares emphasizes the modular character of the facades, referring to the prefabricated panels, while also allowing the creation of light animations across the square’s surface. The light integrates with the visual rhythm of the mosaic gradients, transforming the space into a living, dynamic element of the city. Light transitions can be static or active – dispersing like a mist of light over the facade surface in a delicate and subtle way, or dynamic – introducing pulsating sequences that emphasize the movement and rhythm of city life. 

On the southern corner of the square, where there is an elevated wall without windows, we designed an LED clock inspired by the tile layout. The geometric rhythm of the mosaics has been transferred to the clock face, which blends into the aesthetics of the facades. This clock will become a symbolic point of reference for residents and visitors to the square. It builds a new identity of the place while maintaining the general spatial idea. 

For the facade project, we propose the development of the city’s ground level – along the monolithic southern frontage of Obotrycka Street – we propose technologically advanced glass pavilions. The modern pergolas have a color scheme and style consistent with the block facades. Their transparent and functional character will bring life to the market square. They will significantly extend the time residents and tourists will willingly use local restaurants. The city, in turn, may collect rent from tenants for using such a luxurious outdoor space – the pavilions have opening glass walls and an opening roof. They also allow use of the interiors during the winter period. The northern frontage – from Sikorskiego Street – gains intimate wooden platforms; we introduce wood as an element of pavements, outdoor dining areas, and their equipment – furniture. 

Another element we suggest for the market square is additional greenery. It will blend perfectly with the cathedral building and the new monolithic frontages. 

In the square space, we also propose a spatial sculpture – an urban model showing the shape of the historical market square – placed in the southern part of the square next to the church, near Mostowa Street. This model will be made on a scale that allows one to step onto the square’s surface and view each building that once existed there – the beautiful townhouses of the previous era. Such a sculpture is a witness of history that has been irreversibly erased from the market space. This sculpture is another spatial element that builds the identity and authenticity of the place. An educational, historical, and compositional element of the square and the entire city. 

We believe that such an approach to shaping the market square in Gorzów Wielkopolski will give the city a beautiful and prestigious Urban Salon, which will be the pride and showcase of the city. Such a space will enliven the market square, increase property values, the commercial value of service premises, and the city’s tourism potential. In the space we designed, we emphasize the value of the historic cathedral as a unique element framed by modern, elegant architecture of the 20th and 21st centuries.