GRAIN

Gdańsk Technical University (Politechnika Gdańska), Faculty of Architecture, Gdańsk

Project idea

Situated on the bank of the Dead Vistula River in Gdańsk, Poland, the GRAIN project draws inspiration from nearby historical granaries. This heritage influenced both the building's volume and its residential and commercial functions. A complex steel arched structure on the ground floor covers the service areas, supporting simple white blocks of apartment units.

The concept is based on wheat. Specifically, grains and stalks - which defined key architectural elements, including the complex shape of the arches and facade details. Adhering to the seven principles of Universal Design, GRAIN ensures full accessibility, creating an inclusive environment for all users.

Project description

GRAIN is a multifamily residential complex that harmoniously integrates living spaces with a variety of essential amenities on the ground floor. The complex is designed to foster a vibrant and self-sustaining community through the inclusion of several commercial and recreational functions.

The ground floor features a diverse range of facilities to enhance the everyday lives of the residents. These include a specialized fishing store, a bakery that uses ingredients grown on-site, a local grocery store supplying daily essentials, and a bike room to encourage sustainable transportation.

An underground car park is located on the -1 level of the complex, providing 36 parking spaces for cars including 4 spaces designed for families. Moreover, 5 designated motorcycle stops, ensuring ample parking for all residents.

The residential component of the building consists of 34 apartment units, characterized by a checkered layout on each floor. This innovative design creates a dynamic and diverse living environment, accommodating various family sizes and lifestyle preferences.

On the 1st and 2nd floors, there are rooms dedicated to common activities, including a gym and a community room, which are available for residents to promote health and social interaction.

A unique feature of the complex is the rooftop garden terrace on the 2nd floor. The roof is equipped with ground mats for growing grain, promoting sustainable living practices. During the harvest season, the grain grown on the rooftop can be used in the local bakery to produce fresh bread, establishing a direct farm-to-table experience for the residents.

This multifamily residential complex offers a comprehensive living solution, combining residential comfort with commercial convenience and sustainability. The integration of diverse ground floor functions, along with the innovative rooftop garden, creates a self-sufficient and vibrant community, making it an ideal model for modern urban living.

Technical information

The construction of the building is made of reinforced concrete (RC) structural elements, including beams, columns, load-bearing walls and slabs. The main structural solution for the facility relies on these reinforced concrete elements, ensuring stability and durability.

Elevations of the building are finished with white smooth plaster, offering a clean and modern aesthetic look.

Additionally, a metal complex arched structure is incorporated not only for aesthetic reasons but also to act as a supportive framework for the upper storeys, transferring forces efficiently to the substructure.