The grounds of the former Sluzewiec horse racing track in Warsaw hide a forgotten object - Grandstand III. Although it was designed for 7,000 people, it was never put into use for spectators. What functions could revive the modernist grandstand anew? This question was answered by architecture students from the Warsaw University of Technology - Zuzanna Bućko, Karolina Celinska and Alicja Sutkowska, creating original concepts under the guidance of Dr. Grzegorz Rytel and Aleksandra Lewicka. As part of the project "Study of architectural form as an added value in the cultural environment," they created proposals for modern adaptations that could reintroduce Tribune III into the life of the city.
site development plan
© Zuzanna Bućko
Can the former grandstand still serve Varsovians?
Grandstand III is an integral part of the Służewiec racetrack complex and a testament to the bold ideas of its pre-war designers. Although from the beginning it served a subordinate function to Grandstands I and II, deprived of a view of the finish line and intended for the "cheapest seats," it stands out with its impressive cantilevered canopy. Today, however, it remains abandoned, used mainly as a warehouse and storage area, which leads it to ruin - instead of impressing with its bold design and beautiful arches in the lobby, it deters with its crude brutality.
axonometry of the skatepark
© Zuzanna Bućko
Skatepark under the roof - design by Zuzanna Bućko.
Zuzanna Bućko proposed adapting Stand III into an indoor skatepark, allowing the space to return to its sporting function, offering year-round entertainment for lovers and enthusiasts of skateboards, BMX bikes or rollerblades. The skatepark would utilize both the interior of the building and the grandstand itself, creating a unique gathering place that references the original design of Grandstand III. The long, covered space of the arena is great for shaping ramps and riding tracks, and year-round access requires no additional heating or thermal insulation.
visualization of the skatepark from the outside
© Zuzanna Bućko
The surroundings of the facility are also an important element of the project - the Służewiec horse racing track is decorated with the largest street art gallery in Poland. Introducing graffiti into the interior of the skatepark would allow young people to actively use this space, strengthening the integration of street culture with historic architecture.
visualization of the interior of the skatepark
© Zuzanna Bućko
The choice of this function also stems from the need to open up the facility and the entire area of the horse racing track to its immediate and distant surroundings, inviting residents and residents of Warsaw to enjoy its green and recreational areas. The skatepark would provide opportunities for sports activities for both visitors and sportsmen and sportswomen associated with the clubs operating at the track. Thanks to this function, the space of the horse racing track would gain new accessibility and attract new users and users, emphasizing the sports character of the establishment.
A modern gym - a project by Karolina Celinska
Karolina Celińska, on the other hand, proposed transforming Stand III into a gym, which would not only revitalize the monument, but also encourage residents to adopt a healthy lifestyle.
elevations of the gym
© Karolina Celińska
The project involves the comprehensive reconstruction of the Stand III structure, with priority given to renovating and strengthening the structure to ensure full safety for users. An important aspect was also the renovation of the facade to highlight its unique architectural qualities. A key element of the project became the addition of a mezzanine, which not only increases the functionality of the space and creates additional usable space, but also harmonizes with the interior design. The orange mezzanine adds a modern touch, giving the interior a dynamic character. The mezzanine's modern detailing provides a contrast to the modernist body of the Tribune, while being a contemporary interpretation of it. Platforms for outdoor activities and relaxation areas are planned for the eastern part of the grandstand, which will allow the facility to be used on a permanent basis.
visualization of the gym from outside
© Karolina Celińska
The adaptation of the grandstand into a gym will contribute to increasing the attractiveness of the horse racing track area, promoting a healthy lifestyle. The new gym will also become a social meeting place, strengthening the local community and its ties. The transformation of Stand III will create a unique place that will serve as both a fitness center and a monument to architectural heritage.
visualization of the gym
© Karolina Celińska
Climbing hall - design by Alicja Sutkowska
Alicja Sutkowska sees the potential of Stand III as a climbing hall, which would take advantage of the vertical nature of the building. The slope of the building's structure fits perfectly with the requirements of competitive sports such as climbing.By climbing the steps, users and users can enjoy a panoramic view of the entire racetrack establishment. A similar effect was envisioned for the interior - high glazing would provide a view of the surrounding tree crowns, creating a natural setting for climbing. The elongated shape of the building allows for a variety of configurations of climbing walls, behind which auxiliary spaces were planned. For those who reach the top, the proximity of the impressive structural arches and a glimpse from a height reveals a scale of the building that cannot be seen from ground level.
axonometry of the climbing hall
© Alicja Sutkowska
Climbing is also a complementary proposition for the daily training of jockeys and jockeys. Combined with a gym and food and beverage outlets, it invites not only the complex's athletes, but also nearby residents and residents who, after an active climbing session, could relax on the steps of the stand, admiring the sweeping distant view, at once contrasting and complementing with what they experienced inside.
visualization of the climbing hall
© Alicja Sutkowska
The projects presented by the students of the Warsaw University of Technology are proof that old spaces can come alive again and adapt to modern social needs. Stand III in Służewiec, with its new functions - a skatepark, a gym and a climbing hall - could become a place for meetings, sports and culture, using the potential of a modernist building that is being forgotten.
visualization of the climbing hall
© Alicja Sutkowska
