Okrąglak, one of Poznań’s most recognisable architectural gems, has fascinated residents and visitors alike for decades. This cylindrical modernist building, completed in the 1950s, was a bold departure from traditional Polish architecture. It began as a prestigious department store, offering a glimpse of luxury in post-war Poland, and later transformed into a modern office hub. Despite its ups and downs—including a sudden closure right after opening—Okrąglak remains an enduring symbol of Poznań’s dynamic history and innovation.
An Unusual Start: Opened and Then… Closed
Seventy years ago, on 29 January 1955, Poznań’s residents eagerly stepped inside the newly opened Dom Towarowy „Okrąglak” (Okrąglak Department Store). The excitement was palpable—this was no ordinary shopping centre. Designed by architect Marek Leykam, its distinctive cylindrical form set it apart from anything else in the city. But just one day after the grand opening, Okrąglak was unexpectedly closed.
Officially, the closure was due to damage caused by the overwhelming crowds—shattered glass and broken lights. In reality, inspectors had flagged a number of issues, from missing cloakrooms to insufficient ventilation in restrooms. The temporary closure allowed these last-minute corrections to be made, and Okrąglak reopened on 3 February 1955. Despite the rocky start, Poznaniacy (Poznań’s residents) quickly grew to love their new department store.
A Bold Architectural Statement
Okrąglak, located at the intersection of Mielżyńskiego and 27 Grudnia streets, was built between 1948 and 1954, replacing the pre-war Bank Cukrownictwa (Sugar Industry Bank), which had been destroyed during World War II.
Leykam’s vision was strikingly modern, even daring for its time. The cylindrical shape, a rare choice in commercial architecture, gave it a futuristic edge. A centrally placed staircase—a sculptural element in itself—spiralled through the heart of the building. The rooftop, originally designed as a viewing terrace, offered sweeping views of the city.
The design reflected the principles of modernism, rejecting the socialist realism that was beginning to dominate Polish architecture in the early 1950s. The state had initially planned for a modest, three-storey building, in keeping with neighbouring tenement houses. However, Leykam’s bold concept ultimately prevailed, and the result was an eight-storey (or nine-storey, depending on classification) landmark that stood out in post-war Poland.
But why the name Okrąglak? In Polish, okrągły means “round,” and the nickname simply reflects the building’s unmistakable circular shape. While its official name was Dom Towarowy Okrąglak (Okrąglak Department Store), for most residents of Poznań, the shorter, affectionate name stuck—just as the building itself has remained a lasting part of the city’s landscape.
A Place of Shopping and Social Life
For decades, Okrąglak was more than just a department store—it was a symbol of luxury and modernity. Unlike typical PRL-era (Polish People’s Republic) shops, which often suffered from shortages, Okrąglak stocked both Polish and foreign goods, making it a magnet for those seeking high-quality fashion and household items.
However, some elements were missing. Customers complained about the lack of a bar or bistro, where they could take a break from shopping. There were even plans to place a food kiosk in front of the building, but the city’s chief architect rejected the idea, considering it aesthetically inappropriate.
Fire Hazards and Safety Concerns
Despite its popularity, Okrąglak had its critics—especially among fire safety inspectors. The narrow staircases and elevators posed evacuation risks, leading to constant discussions about how to improve safety.
Over the years, various modifications were made:
- An external emergency staircase was added, though it was later removed.
- Fire-resistant boiserie (wood panelling) was replaced.
- Windows were modernised to enhance safety.
- The building was physically connected to the adjacent “Kwadraciak” office block.
- A large underground water reservoir was constructed to support fire safety measures.
The Decline of a Shopping Icon
Okrąglak’s golden years lasted through the 1970s and 80s, but by the 1990s, the department store concept was losing its appeal. The economic transformations of post-communist Poland introduced large Western-style shopping malls, and Okrąglak struggled to keep up. By 2009, almost all retail activity in the building had ceased.
Recognising its architectural value, authorities granted Okrąglak heritage protection in 2003. This status preserved the building from demolition but also made renovations more complicated.
A New Life as a Modern Office Hub
In 2011–2012, a major renovation project transformed Okrąglak from a struggling retail space into a high-end office and commercial building. The goal was not just modernisation, but also restoring Leykam’s original vision. Key changes included:
- Reintroducing the original façade design with its signature vertical “blades.”
- Restoring the interior décor, including glass tile wall cladding and ceramic flooring.
- Updating office spaces to meet 21st-century business needs.
The building officially reopened on 24 September 2012, now catering to companies rather than shoppers.
A Lasting Symbol of Poznań
Today, Okrąglak stands as a testament to post-war Polish modernism and an enduring symbol of Poznań’s architectural ambition. It has won multiple architectural awards, including the Złote Quadro (Golden Quadro) prize for the best building in Poznań between 1955 and 2005.
Though no longer a department store, it remains an integral part of the city’s identity—a landmark that has seen generations of Poznaniacy walk through its doors. From its bold beginnings to its revival as a sleek office hub, Okrąglak continues to be a defining feature of Poznań’s urban landscape.
