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Life is being reborn in the heart of Wrocław's former river port. Where goods were once transshipped and industry thrived, a modern urban space is now emerging – City Port.
As part of this unique investment, one of the key port facilities was restored: building B, the former General Cargo Warehouse. Its metamorphosis is an example of successful revitalization that respects heritage and uses state-of-the-art technologies. ARCH-E sp. z o.o. was responsible for the architectural design of the City Port investment.
Preserving the identity of a place
The Drobnica Warehouse, as a building listed in the register of monuments, was a particular challenge. For this reason, the investor, in close cooperation with the municipal conservator of monuments, opted for an approach that combines tradition with modernity. The original composition of the façade was retained: the layout, size, and arrangement of the openings. Furthermore, it was crucial to preserve the industrial character of the building. For this reason, the old steel windows were replicated in aluminum, reflecting their raw aesthetics in a new, durable form.
Windows that breathe the past
The use of AS 75 systems in the Industrial and AF 50 variants from Aluron not only preserved the architectural authenticity, but also gave the building a new functional quality. In addition, large glazed areas, which replaced the old warehouse doors, brighten up the interior and emphasize the raw rhythm of the façade. Double-leaf doors from the AS 75 system, 2.2 m and 2.3 m high, complete the whole. Thanks to the arched transoms, the structure has gained lightness and a characteristic rhythm. The system muntins used only emphasize the craftsmanship of the detail. Wala surface hinges were painted in the color of the woodwork.
The roof skylights, with a total length of 47 meters, also make a particularly beautiful impression. The woodwork contractor, Aluko s.c., equipped them with smoke vents based on AF 50R with GEZE E1500 S Syncro actuators. This combination of aesthetics and safety fits perfectly with modern standards.
A thoughtful balance between history and technology
The City Port investment focused on clearly distinguishing between the historical and the contemporary – both in terms of materials and finishing details. RAL 7045 MAT shades were used in the structures for skylights and roof hatches. The display windows and doors were painted in RAL 7001 MAT, which ensured subtle color consistency with the industrial past of the building.
