major architekci constructs 'marina III' residential complex on small island in wrocław

major architekci has designed the ‘marina III’ apartment complex located in the center of wrocław, poland. the site is a small island with a maximum width of only 28m, which decreases to zero. the architect faced the challenge of constructing a building that closely relates to the shape of the island and is in direct contact with water.

image © patryk kusz (also main image)

the design by major architekci consists of two elements that rather than creating heavy blocks, aim to create a coherent urban layout along the waterfront. ‘marina III’ is divided into two parts creating an interesting urban plan, the composition of which was developed by tamizo studio. the ground floor level is home to restaurants and cafes, which benefit from adjoining terraces overhanging the water. on the upper floors, the complex comprises of high quality apartments.

image © patryk kusz

the external walls are designed in the form of a glass façade, on which the structure of a black concrete grid is applied. the concrete intends to add a visual weight to the heavily glazed elements and create an elegant and urban character. the reinforced concrete façade is equipped with sliding shutters that add an element of rhythm to the orderly structure. in addition, the external grid has a structural function, allowing a significant overhang above the water. overall, the resulting building by major architekci is an example of architecture that has been designed within the given constraints to create a very site specific structure.

image © patryk kusz

image © maciej lulko

image © patryk kusz

image © patryk kusz

image © maciej lulko

image © maciej lulko

image © maciej lulko

image © maciej lulko

image © maciej lulko

image © maciej lulko

project info:

project name: ‘marina III’

project type: residential and service development

location: pomorska island, wrocław, poland

architect: major architekci

project leader: marcin major, anna major

design team: anna owsiany, paweł major, przemysław spadło, zuzanna róg, partycja koprowska, martyna trzęsicka

concept of land development: tamizo architects

photography: patryk kusz and maciej lulko