On October 28, 2024, at the Andrzej Frycz Modrzewski University in Krakow, awards were presented for the best diploma theses of the academic year 2023/24. One of the two winners was {tag:studenci} from the Faculty of Architecture and Fine Arts, who won the main prize for her diploma thesis "Mountain (W)Shelter over Zadni Staw Polski in the Tatra Mountains". The project, which was created under the supervision of M.Sc. arch. Bartlomiej Kisielewski was recognized by the competition's caputula for the use of modern and ecological technologies and daylight, building the mood of the interior of the entire facility.
main visualization
© Aleksandra Trojnar
shelter a bridge between architecture and nature
Aleksandra Trojnar's thesis is not only a construction project, but also an artistic manifestation of love for the mountains and respect for the environment. "(W)Schód" is a shelter that fits into the landscape of the Tatra Mountains, creating a space that harmonizes with its surroundings, while offering comfort and tranquility to tourists seeking shelter in the mountains.
The focal point of the design is a wooden staircase, symbolically referring to mountain trails.It creates a link between all the floors of the building, resembling the natural forms of the rocks, shaped by time. It's an element that, combined with the spacious interiors, offers a unique atmosphere and opportunity for contemplation.
first floor plan, +1 level plan
© Aleksandra Trojnar
mountains as inspiration
Aleksandra Trojnar, who has been fascinated by mountains since she was a child, decided to create a project that reflects her personal bond with nature.
The words of my promoter, who advised me to design a place to which I would always return with fondness, were very inspiring to me. The Tatra Mountains are a place I love, and they fully express my design. I photographed and sketched stones to then create colorful collages - images in which fragments of mountains, textures of rocks, sky and reflections of water were intertwined. In these compositions I placed tiny silhouettes of people to show a scale so different from that of the city, almost incomprehensible in its monumentality. I took inspiration from each form and structure to create a building that would blend into the landscape, so that the mountains could take it in as something of their own - as if it were another stone at their feet," says the winner.
This is how the shelter was created, which sits on the border between nature and architecture, offering hikers a place to rest, recuperate and talk.
plan of level +2, plan of level +3, cross-section, elevation
© Aleksandra Trojnar
symbolism and form
The name of the project "(W)Stair" is a combination of two ideas - "stairs" and "east". The staircase is a key conceptual element, symbolizing not only wandering, but also ascending upwards, towards nature. The wooden staircase in the center of the building, connecting all floors, resembles a mountain trail. The flights of stairs interweave like stones carved by water, creating the impression of an organic connection between the building and its surroundings. Thus, the staircase is not only functional, but also metaphorical, acting as a central point connecting the different levels of the building, while also symbolizing a trek and journey into the depths of mountain space.
composition of space
The design of the hostel is not only a response to the needs of tourists and hikers, but also a reference to the unique atmosphere of the mountains. The architecture of the hostel has been designed to blend in with the natural landscape while offering modern amenities. The building's varying levels, related to the topography of the area, introduce spatial elements reminiscent of the mountain landscape. High floors, glazed facades, and elements of stone and wood are intended not only to tame nature, but also to glamorize it - through contrasts and architectural details.
fragment of the first floor plan
© Aleksandra Trojnar
regeneration after the hardships of hiking
The hostel was designed with the comfort and convenience of hikers in mind. The interior offers a wide range of functions - from spacious dining rooms, to comfortable rooms, to communal rest areas. Socialization spaces are an important feature, fostering integration, sharing experiences and planning further hikes. There are also kitchen annexes on each level of the building, allowing for the preparation of meals and beverages, echoing the tradition of mountain huts.
For tired people, a spa area was designed on the minus-one level. Thanks to this space, visitors to the hostel will be able to relax after a long hike, rest and recuperate for the next day. In addition, a spacious community room has been planned for the top floor of the building, providing an excellent place to talk, share trail experiences and relax in pleasant company.
plan, section, elevation
© Aleksandra Trojnar
