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Project

Universal House

- Otwock, Poland

A contemporary reinterpretation of Otwock's architectural heritage, blending modern and traditional elements in a residential and commercial building.

Modern multi-story building with white facade and open balconies, surrounded by trees and parked cars.

A modern, multi-story building with a white facade and open balconies, surrounded by trees and parked cars.

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Story

Universal House

A contemporary reinterpretation of Otwock's architectural heritage Universal House stands as a beacon of architectural renewal in the heart of Otwock, Poland, a town once renowned for its spa culture and distinctive Świdermajer style. Designed by MFRMGR Architekci, the building occupies a historically significant site adjacent to the railway station, where the iconic “Bar Uniwersalny” once thrived. This project aims to rejuvenate the neglected urban fabric, offering a fresh narrative through its synthesis of traditional and modern design languages. The building is thoughtfully divided into two distinct sections: a two-story wooden structure that pays homage to local wooden detailing, and a taller five-story modern form. This juxtaposition is unified by a light façade that mitigates the surrounding color chaos and accentuates the building's graphic qualities through shadow play. The design features openwork verandas reminiscent of Świdermajer architecture, inviting residents to engage with their environment. Inside, the building accommodates both residential and commercial functions. The glazed ground floor hosts spaces for community-oriented services, while the upper floors contain 23 apartments, each with a veranda. An underground garage and a landscaped courtyard enhance the living experience, offering both convenience and a private green retreat for residents.

Design Highlights

Two-part structure: wooden and modern sections Openwork verandas inspired by Świdermajer style Light façade unifying diverse materials Ground floor commercial spaces for local businesses Landscaped courtyard exclusive to residents

Key Facts

Feature Detail
Location Otwock, Poland
Architect MFRMGR Architekci
Year 2026
Status Built
Usable Area 1557.3 m²
Functions Residential, Commercial

Technical summary

Updated 3/8/2026

Finishes

  • Facade: White-painted plaster, white powder-coated steel, and light gray lacquered wooden cladding.
  • Balconies: Natural concrete slabs.

Materials

  • Wood — Two-story wooden structure.
  • Concrete — Balcony slabs and structural elements.
  • Glass — Ground floor service spaces and windows.

Construction / Systems

  • Structural: Combination of wooden and modern structural elements.

Products

  • Lighting — Wall-mounted spherical lights (Interior hallway lighting)

Palette / Lighting

  • Colors: White, Light Gray
  • Lighting: Warm

Images

Modern multi-story building with white facade and open balconies, surrounded by trees and parked cars.
Modern white building with vertical slats and balconies, surrounded by older buildings.
Modern white building with vertical slats and gabled roofs next to older buildings on a street.
Modern multi-story building with white facade and vertical slats at a street corner.
Modern building with vertical slats and traditional structure with decorative trim.
Modern building with vertical slatted balconies and glass ground floor, featuring light facade and gabled roofs.
Modern white building with vertical slats in urban area with cars and pedestrians.
Modern white building with gabled roof and vertical slats next to a traditional brown-roofed structure, street view with parked cars.
Exterior view of a building with white vertical slats and balconies, warm lighting, and minimalist design.
Modern residential building with white vertical slats and gabled roof.
Modern white building with vertical slats, multiple windows, trees, and power lines.
Modern white multi-story building with large windows and vertical slats, surrounded by trees and adjacent buildings.
Modern building with white facade, large windows, and balconies with vertical slats.
Close-up of a building facade with vertical slats and open balconies.
Building facade with vertical slats and gabled roof, pigeon on streetlight.
Modern building with vertical slats and large glass windows.
Modern building facade with vertical slatted screens and balconies.
Modern building with white vertical slats and balconies.
Close-up of a building facade featuring vertical slatted screens and a traditional window.
Close-up of a building facade with vertical white slats and trees in the foreground.
Modern building facade with vertical slatted panels and balconies.
Minimalist hallway with concrete floor and ceiling, vertical slatted screens, and wall-mounted spherical lights.
Modern balcony with vertical slatted walls and railings, overlooking a residential area at sunset.
Minimalist balcony with light-colored walls, concrete floor, and vertical metal railings.
Modern balcony with light facade and vertical railings, overlooking a tree and buildings.

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