Agreement on Cooperation between the Faculty of Architecture and theTown of Gniew | The Faculty of Architecture at the Gdańsk University of Technology

The cooperation will involve conducting research on spatial planning, urban and architectural design, taking into account historical conditions, the history of urbanism, architecture, and the protection and conservation of monuments. It will also include the participation of employees, PhD students and students of the Faculty of Architecture in projects related to architecture and urbanism, as well as conducting educational activities for students in Gniew.

The signing of the agreement was attended by a large group of 70 students from the 3rd semester of spatial management and the 5th semester of architecture. As part of their semester courses in urban design, the students are participating in a design studio aimed at developing spatial solutions that address the historic Old Town and the Teutonic castle. Despite its wonderfully preserved architectural and urban heritage and spectacular natural and landscape values, Gniew has not yet fully utilized its potential. Students during the semester will try to find solutions to unlock unused potential of Gniew. Teams will be guided by Dr. Małgorzata Kostrzewska, Bartosz Macikowski, and Roman Ruczyński, as well as PhD student Paulina Bone.

This collaboration with Gniew is thanks to our graduate, Alina Krakowiak, who organized summer workshops in the town for the Hulaj Urban Squad academic club in July. The high quality of the projects, the energy of the workshops and the kindness of the Mayor have led to further cooperation. The first step taken is signing the agreement on cooperation with our Faculty.

However, the visit to Gniew was not only about formalities. Students analyzed the developmental conditions of the town and identifying problems that they will tackle as part of their design courses. During field explorations, the students learned about the cultural, landscape, and natural values of the town, identified spatial and functional issues, and spoke with residents.

We will return to Gniew in a month, on 16th of November, when students will work on their design concepts. We are excited that our students can contribute new ideas that the town. We would like to thank the Mayor for the invitation to this collaboration.