LighTower

Project idea

Water tower at ul. Janusz Korczak in Katowice in Poland is a facility entered in the register of historical monuments. It was built in 1911 for the expanding zinc plant. The water tower was built in the style of Art Nouveau and Modernism. The building measuring 68 meters high is not only a testimony to historical engineering achievements, but also a masterpiece of architecture. Unfortunately, the building is currently empty and no entry has been introduced. However, in accordance with the ambitious idea, bringing the water tower back to life is one of the main goals. The aim of this project is to give the tower new, innovative functions that will not only serve the local residents, but also fully respect and preserve its original, unique character. The urban concept of this project assumes not only the transformation of the water tower, but also the creation of an oasis of green recreational and leisure space, which will be available to the local community. In harmony with the surrounding landscape, this project aims to provide local residents with a place where they can rest, relax and enjoy nature. It is also an opportunity to revitalize the neighborhood, transforming a neglected area into a heart of social activity and sustainable development. This concept aims not only to restore the splendor of the water tower, but also to create social bonds and strengthen the bonds of the local community.

Project description

The urban vision of this project assumes the creation of a charming, green recreation and leisure space that will be available to local residents. The project provides for the harmonious development of both high and low vegetation, with care to preserve as many existing trees as possible and to create pedestrian paths that fit into the natural surroundings. Recreational places dedicated to various functions, such as an open-air amphitheater or a leisure square, will also be located in this area. An important element of the project is the opening of a water reservoir in the existing depression of the land. In winter, it is also possible to create an ice rink on the surface of the reservoir. In order to provide adequate infrastructure and facilitate access, a fire road leading to the tower has been planned, as well as adequate parking spaces. On the representative area in front of the entrance to the tower there is a small water reservoir. This area is also adapted to the needs of people with disabilities, free of architectural barriers to ensure access for everyone. The historic tower, which is both a scenic dominant and a symbolic element of the landscape, is an ideal place to introduce various functions that will serve not only local residents, but also visitors. The concept assumes the creation of zones adapted to different age groups. On the ground floor, next to the reception, there is a cultural zone, which is a small museum exhibition presenting the history of the tower. On the next floor there is a library with a dedicated area for children. Above it, on the mezzanine, there is a work space. On the second floor with a mezzanine, a relaxation and games zone has been designed, which includes a chillout zone and a club for seniors. On the next floor there is a coworking area with access to the kitchenette. The fourth floor serves as a technical zone where all the necessary installations are located. The fifth and sixth floors are dedicated to cafes and kitchen facilities. Stairs leading to the viewpoint were added to the tower, and it was equipped with an elevator and a new staircase. This facility is fully adapted to the needs of people with disabilities to ensure equal access to all floors and rooms. The presented water tower design, full of new features and adapted to different age groups, will not only bring this historic place to life, but will also become a source of inspiration and a fascinating place for the local community. It is a harmonious combination of architecture, nature and inclusions that will transform the water tower into an iconic symbol, reflecting social and cultural values.

Technical information

The tower was built using state-of-the-art technologies that make its design extremely modern and innovative during its construction. The concept is based on the use of specialized panels placed at strategic points on the outer walls of the tower. The panels have the ability to absorb solar energy during the day and give it back as light at night. It is in this dynamic juxtaposition of contrasting elements, where history intertwines with the future, that the uniqueness of this tower lies. While the centuries-old buildings pass, this tower is a symbol not only of technological progress, but also of man's unwavering desire to create something lasting and beautiful.