Poznań is a city rich in architectural diversity, with buildings that span centuries of design evolution. While the Old Market Square is a well-known attraction, Poznań offers many hidden architectural gems in styles ranging from Art Nouveau to modernist and post-industrial marvels. This guide takes you on a journey through Poznań’s architectural history, highlighting five key buildings from each period.
Art Nouveau Treasures
Art Nouveau, or Secesja in Polish, emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It emphasised organic forms, flowing lines, and intricate decorative details, often inspired by nature. In Poznań, the Art Nouveau style is particularly evident in the city’s tenement houses.
- Tenement House, Dąbrowskiego 39 – 1906
Designed by Herman Böhmer and Paul Preul, this elegant tenement house features an asymmetrical facade, with flowing lines and iron balconies that are characteristic of Art Nouveau. Floral motifs and carved details give the building a delicate, natural appearance, making it one of the architectural highlights of Dąbrowskiego Street.
- Tenement House, Roosevelta 5 – 1907
Built as part of a housing project for German civil servants, this building’s standout features include ornate ironwork and bold sculptural elements, including bas-reliefs of female figures. The flowing forms typical of Art Nouveau blend with the structural solidity of the building, giving it a unique charm.
- Tenement House, Matejki 47 – 1908
Located in the Johow-Gelände area, this building showcases vibrant floral decorations and intricate plasterwork. Its wrought-iron balconies and colourful facade reflect the artistic spirit of the era, making it one of the most recognisable examples of Art Nouveau in Poznań.
- Tenement House, Wyspiańskiego 10 – 1910
Known for its stunning stained glass windows, this tenement house is a masterpiece of Poznań’s Art Nouveau era. The combination of rich woodwork, iron railings, and colourful light from the windows creates a warm, inviting atmosphere, showcasing the craftsmanship of the time.
- Tenement House, Jackowskiego 38 – 1912
One of the most vibrant buildings in Poznań’s Jeżyce district, this tenement house is famous for its floral motifs inspired by native Polish flora. The vivid colours and detailed ornamentation on the facade make it a standout in the neighbourhood’s architectural landscape.
Modernist Marvels
Modernism became prominent in the 1920s and lasted into the mid-20th century. The style prioritised function over ornamentation, with a focus on clean lines, geometric shapes, and open spaces. In Poznań, modernism reflects both the city’s rebuilding efforts after World War II and its embrace of new, forward-thinking architectural principles.
- Okrąglak (The Rotunda) – 1955
This iconic cylindrical building, designed by Marek Leykam, is a key example of post-war Polish modernism. With its round shape and vertical window slats, Okrąglak stands out in Poznań’s cityscape. Originally built as a department store, it has since been repurposed as office space, but its modernist design remains a symbol of the era.
- Collegium Novum (Adam Mickiewicz University) – 1968
Collegium Novum is part of the Adam Mickiewicz University campus and is a prime example of functional modernism. The building’s clean, minimalist lines and large glass surfaces reflect the modernist ideal of form following function. It also integrates green spaces, enhancing the building’s connection to its surroundings.
- Dom Studencki Zbyszko (Zbyszko Student Dormitory) – 1970
This student dormitory is a simple, functional structure typical of post-war modernist architecture. Its rectangular shape, minimal decoration, and use of concrete materials reflect the era’s focus on affordable, practical building solutions for public use.
- Pixel – 2012
Designed by JEMS Architekci, Pixel is an innovative, eco-friendly office building that incorporates green terraces and modular cube-like structures. Located in Poznań’s Grunwald district, it is one of the city’s most forward-thinking examples of modern architecture. Its focus on sustainability and contemporary aesthetics makes it a symbol of Poznań’s growing tech scene.
- Biurowiec Bałtyk (Bałtyk Office Tower) – 2017
Bałtyk, designed by MVRDV and NO Natkaniec Olechnicki Architekci, is one of the most recent additions to Poznań’s skyline. Its irregular form and tapering design make it a striking example of modernist principles adapted to contemporary architecture. Depending on your angle, the building’s shape shifts, creating a dynamic visual experience.
Post-Industrial Revival
Poznań’s post-industrial architecture reflects the city’s transition from a manufacturing hub to a centre of culture, design, and business. Old factories, breweries, and military barracks have been repurposed into vibrant cultural and commercial spaces, blending industrial heritage with modern functionality.
- Stary Browar (Old Brewery) – 2003
A former 19th-century brewery, Stary Browar was transformed into a commercial and cultural complex in 2003. The building retains much of its industrial charm, with red brick walls and exposed beams, but has been reimagined as a space for shopping, dining, and the arts. Its successful blend of old and new has earned it numerous architectural awards.
- Concordia Design – 2011
Located on Zwierzyniecka Street, Concordia Design was one of the first major revitalisation projects in Poznań’s Jeżyce district. Housed in a former printing factory, this multifunctional space now serves as a hub for design, innovation, and business. Its industrial roots are preserved in the building’s exposed brick walls and large windows, which have been combined with modern, minimalist interiors.
- Brama Poznania ICHOT (Gate of Poznań: Interactive Centre of Ostrów Tumski History) – 2013
This minimalist structure, designed by Ad Artis Architects, tells the story of Poznań’s origins near Ostrów Tumski (Cathedral Island). The white, angular building stands in contrast to its historic surroundings, symbolising the city’s balance between preserving its past and looking toward the future.
- UBIQ 34 – 2015
A unique mix of old and new, UBIQ 34 is an office complex that includes a restored 19th-century military barracks surrounded by two modern glass buildings. The contrast between the historic brick structure and sleek contemporary additions creates a visually striking and functional post-industrial space.
- Pawilon (The Pavilion) – 2018
Located on the site of a former military warehouse, Pawilon is a minimalist cultural venue designed for exhibitions, performances, and events. Its stark, angular design reflects Poznań’s commitment to revitalising its industrial spaces while embracing modern, functional aesthetics.
Embracing Poznań’s Architectural Legacy and Future
Poznań’s architectural landscape is a rich tapestry woven from different eras and styles, each telling its own story about the city’s development. From the flowing lines of Art Nouveau to the clean functionality of modernism, and the creative repurposing of industrial spaces, Poznań’s buildings showcase a city in constant evolution.
By exploring these architectural gems, you not only discover beautiful structures but also gain insight into Poznań’s past, present, and future. The city’s ability to blend tradition with innovation makes it a fascinating destination for architecture lovers and curious travellers alike. Whether you’re captivated by the elegance of Secesja, the boldness of modernism, or the creativity of post-industrial revival, Poznań’s architecture offers something for everyone.
