Revitalizing large historical buildings with highly specialized past functions requires a new kind of approach - one that allows these structures to adapt effectively to contemporary needs. The Officers’ House in Borne Sulinowo was originally built as part of a German military complex. After years of service, including the Soviet period, the building lost its original purpose and remained unused for decades. Its scale, specificity, and location in a small town made a traditional restoration nearly impossible.
The response to these challenges is the concept of a flexible space - an approach that enables the building to evolve gradually according to changing needs. Instead of assigning a fixed function, the design introduces an open framework that can transform over time, responding to local initiatives and the seasonal rhythm of the town.
At the core of the concept is a central activity hub - a space intended to maintain consistent use of the building. Around it, complementary zones are arranged, each able to shift functions depending on current demands. This structure helps reduce the risk of vacancy, supports community engagement, and simplifies long-term management of the facility.
A key aspect of the project is the deliberate use of aesthetics. Varied colors and materials define different zones, improving navigation and emphasizing the adaptable character of the building. New architectural interventions maintain respect for the historical fabric while introducing a contemporary design language that clearly distinguishes old from new.
The project builds on the unique character of the structure and the idea of flexible space, forming a foundation for a place open to change. Through this approach, the former Officers’ House gains a new life, offering its users a setting where the future can be shaped collaboratively.
2025
Borne Sulinowo, Poland / concept design
6500 sqm