Pracownia – The Workshop by ACOS: A Holistic Workspace Blending Craft, Culture, and Contemporary Design

A New Vision for Workspaces in Słupsk, Poland

Pracownia – The Workshop by ACOS (A Collection of Stories) redefines contemporary workspace design through a holistic architectural approach rooted in culture, craftsmanship, and environmental responsibility. Designed in 2024 for OMNI KAISER Patisserie, this 450 m² project transforms an existing structure into a multi-layered environment where architecture, materiality, and user experience merge seamlessly.

With lead architects Anna Stojcev-Mlynska and Stanislaw Mlynski at the helm, the project embraces a narrative-driven methodology, creating a workspace that embodies the identity of its creators and future users.

Holistic Design Rooted in Culture, Materiality, and Human Experience

The concept for Pracownia revolves around the harmony between user needs and the physical environment. The design integrates local culture, natural materials, and modern manufacturing methods to form an immersive spatial composition. Overlapping volumes and fluid boundaries dissolve the separation between interior and exterior, elevating the workshop into an architectural dialogue with its surroundings.

Natural materials—primarily wood, stone, textured fabrics, and handcrafted finishes—shape the interiors with quiet elegance. These tactile surfaces reinforce the project’s emphasis on craftsmanship, authenticity, and emotional resonance.

A Spatial Strategy That Connects Production, People, and Purpose

OMNI KAISER required the new programme—offices, meeting rooms, and collaboration areas—to be woven into the existing facility, strengthening the synergy between production and administrative functions. ACOS responded with a spatial strategy that balances flexibility with structural constraints.

Key design moves include:

• Locating offices, reception, and social spaces on the first floor, maximizing existing volume.
• Creating a new glass pavilion at the building’s front to house vertical circulation, the director’s office, and the main conference room.
• Establishing visual connections between spaces to encourage team interaction and operational transparency.

This delicate integration results in an efficient layout that supports organizational growth while preserving architectural integrity.

Interior Architecture Defined by Nature and Light

Nature is a central design element. Large windows, extended stone slabs, and transitional pathways merge indoor and outdoor spaces, offering a continuous sensory experience. The rhythmic façade gestures and the interplay of natural light enrich the spatial character throughout the day.

A signature moment in the design occurs on the upper floor, where a large planter fed by overhead skylights introduces lush vegetation into the workspace. This biophilic layer softens the architectural geometry and enhances the wellbeing of occupants.

Material Palette and Craftsmanship

The project’s material strategy celebrates simplicity, durability, and authenticity. Timber, stone, woven carpets, glass elements, and carefully selected lighting fixtures create a harmonious interior atmosphere. Handmade details and bespoke furniture express ACOS’s commitment to craft excellence, aligning with the workshop’s identity as a creative environment.

The interwoven volumes not only sculpt space but also encourage collaboration, creating a dynamic workplace shaped by interaction and fluid movement.

Sustainability Embedded at Every Stage

Pracownia demonstrates a comprehensive sustainability strategy that influences design decisions from procurement to long-term operation.

Key sustainability features:

• Carbon footprint analysis guiding material selection and construction processes.
• Layouts optimized for natural light, spatial flow, and future adaptability.
• Local contractors and regional materials to reduce environmental impact.
• Renewable energy systems including photovoltaics and wind turbines powering daily operations.
• Heat recovery systems that repurpose surplus production heat to warm office areas.
• Integrated smart building systems controlling HVAC, ventilation, lighting, and blinds based on weather conditions.
• Facade louvres and proportional shading balancing insulation and solar protection.

This approach creates a workspace that responds dynamically to climate variables while minimizing energy consumption and operational cost.

A Workspace That Reflects Identity, Creativity, and Culture

Pracownia – The Workshop is more than an office renovation; it is a meticulously crafted narrative where environment, people, and purpose converge. Through material awareness, cultural sensitivity, and technical innovation, ACOS has delivered a future-forward workspace that mirrors the creative energy of OMNI KAISER Patisserie while strengthening its operational ecosystem.

All photographs are works of Tomo Yarmush