DIRECTION 38

The subject of this master's thesis is a project to transform the post-railway area in Grajewo into an integral part of the urban fabric, while simultaneously revitalizing it and making it more attractive. The development of the design concept was preceded by a research part, which describes the history of the railway in general terms and on the scale of Poland, as well as its connections and significance for the structure of the town.

The architectural concept presents a response to the diagnosed challenges. It describes the project consisting of two main parts: the zone with the built-up area and the landscape zone. The green zone was designed as an extensive linear nature complex with diverse plants, surfaces and functions. Additionally, it is made more attractive by preserved track fragments, along which recreational and service facilities move, making the stay amidst nature more pleasant.

In the zone with the main facilities is located the historic station building, which will be accompanied by the designed multifunctional building with a complementary purpose and an integrated part related to bus infrastructure. Both parts of the layout are connected by a network of soft pedestrian paths subtly introducing them into the structure of the town.

The geometric character is broken by soft, wavy paths winding through the park. They are accompanied by tiered seating in the form of stairs, raised above ground level or recessed into it, matched to the shape of the paths. Pedestrian routes freely pass into the part with the main buildings, running between the station and the multifunctional building, as well as on its roof.

The character of Grajewo can definitely be described as small-town. The town has only two main roads, outside of which traffic is quite light. The predominant residential development makes the locality quiet and peaceful. The division of space caused by the presence of the tracks is clearly noticeable. On their right side is the town center with main services, within which heavier traffic is visible.

The heart of the project is the historic railway station building. Its form, preserved for years, constitutes one of the few landmarks of the town. Therefore, the design actions taken had to be selected so as not to overshadow the main building, but only to provide a background and functional reinforcement for it. The project represents a rather radical change in the character of the town, which is why its structure was gently introduced into the existing fabric.

The railway station building will be restored to its original function, enriched with new accompanying functions. The designed multifunctional facility combines a wide range of functions and has been designed with the capacity for adaptation to new purposes. It houses a zone designated for start-ups, a coworking area, rooms for workshops, classes, discussions, as well as a small gastronomic section and a bazaar. The facility creates a modern working environment and activates the local community.

The landscape part consists of six zones with different purposes, surfaces, and plants. Zones with grassy, sandy, or water surfaces have been distinguished, connected by wooden or stone paths. Each zone is accompanied by vegetation adapted to its prevailing conditions, as well as additional attractions in the form of a barbecue area, a children's play area, and a historic monuments zone. Cubic wooden pavilions and tiered seating in the form of stairs are distributed within the layout.

The concept presents a response to the diagnosed challenges. The needs of the residents, the structure and possibilities of the town were analyzed, drawing conclusions that constitute a starting point for the design part. The actions taken in the project make the structure of the town more attractive by creating spaces and functions that are currently lacking there. They increase its competitiveness by improving social, economic, and spatial conditions, creating a new identity for the town.