Old Brewery is a center of business, art and commerce. Placed in Poznan, Poland this red brick complex was builded in two parts (first one finished in 2003, and the second one in 2007). The building is settled on a place where one of Poznan’s old breweries was situated. The remanings of the old developments are componed into new investment industrial architectural style of the whole complex. Total area of the center is about 130.000 quadermeters in the first part and 65.000 in the second. Both parts are connected with so called “courtyard of art” – a place with coffee shops, organized events such as movie projections and concerts, the gallery and a bookstore.This complex is one of the most interesting architectural objects in Poland built in 21st century. First part of the investment won several architectural awards including International Council of Shopping Centers Best Shopping Center in the World and International Council of Shopping Centers award for the best shopping center in Europe (in category of medim sized commercial buildings).
Stary Browar Part 1, main entrance. Photo taken from Skyscrapercity forums.
Stary Browar Part 2. Photo taken from Skyscrapercity forums.
The whole complex idea came out of Grazyna Kulczyk (wife of one of the richest men in Poland), which also owes Fortis – company that became the investor that builded Old Brewery.
A part of Old Brewery that is surrounded by fog of mystery is The Blow Up Hall 50 50 Hotel. It is an unique element of complex, not easy to access with very original architecture and artistic design. The hotel has only23 rooms and no receptionist. The key to each room is iPhone, that also uses to communicate with hotel’s staff. Every room looks different and was projected as a complete element of the hotel.
Blow Up Hall. Photo taken from Skyscrapercity forums.
Blow Up Hall, room. Photo taken from Skyscrapercity forums.
For Poznan’s inhabitants Old Brewery (Stary Browar in Polish) is more than just a building. It is a standing prove that Polish people can build greatest buildings without any abroad financing – using their own hands. All stores, restaurants, museums, coffee shops and public spaces are place where Poznan inhabitants often meet and. The building is now one of the places visited by tourists (next to Poznan’s rich offer of beautiful historic buildings).
Inside Stary Browar Part 1. Photo taken from Skyscrapercity forums.
Stary Browar Part 1, the main hall. Photo taken from Skyscrapercity forums.
Third part of the coplex is planned by Ms. Kulczyk, which will contain museum for her huge collection of modern art. This part will be placed underground (under a park) and will be projected by world-wide known Japan architect Tadao Ando.
Stary Browar Complex with surroundings. Photo taken from Skyscrapercity forums.
