Conversion of Tenement Houses into Office Use – Auschwitz-Birkenau Foundation Headquarters

The project involves the transformation of three historic tenement houses at Waliców 10, 12, and 14 into a public-use complex, including the future headquarters of the Auschwitz-Birkenau Foundation. These wartime-surviving buildings, partially destroyed and never rebuilt, are listed as historical monuments and are under strict conservation protection.

The concept focuses on preserving the ruined tenement structures while introducing new architecture that complements the existing urban fabric. The project protects the remains by roofing the front sections—particularly at Waliców 14, where only fragments remain, bearing direct witness to wartime destruction within the former Warsaw Ghetto. The new buildings follow the historic street line and are kept distinct from the preserved elements, respecting conservation guidelines.

A defining feature is the partial roofing of Waliców 14’s remains, using a high, open roof structure inspired by the building’s pre-war silhouette. This gesture symbolizes shelter without erasing visible signs of war. At Waliców 12, the missing section will be reconstructed with glass, clearly distinguishing it from the original masonry.

The design introduces public, office, and exhibition functions. Ground floors will house services and exhibition areas, including open-air displays beneath the roof of Waliców 14. An indoor exhibition space will be created in the preserved basement of the former building, featuring curated displays such as the "Never Again War" poster series.

All three tenement courtyards will be roofed and transformed into glazed atria—serving as bright lobbies and circulation spaces. Entrances will be preserved in their historical locations on Pereca and Waliców streets. A small underground parking area is planned behind Waliców 10 and 12.

Interior modifications will enable flexible use: residential units will be merged, and added partitions removed, allowing large, adaptable office spaces with floorplates exceeding 1,500 m². Vertical and horizontal circulation will connect all parts of the complex, providing multiple access points.

This revitalization project honors the memory of the site and integrates historical authenticity with contemporary functionality, creating a space that reflects both the tragic history of the Warsaw Ghetto and a commitment to remembrance and public engagement.