Ingarden & Ewý Architects: A Masterpiece in Contextual Design

Exploring the Małopolska Garden of Arts: A Harmonious Blend of Tradition and Innovation

The inspiration for the MGA's design is a fascinating interplay between "mimesis and abstraction". The architects drew from the geometric code of the surrounding structures, incorporating the roof geometry and tissue into their design. The result is a building that fits perfectly into its environment, maintaining the lines of the roof and divisions of the façades in line with the composition and linear solutions of the neighbouring buildings. Yet, the MGA is not a mere imitation of its context. Its abstract geometrical compositions and ceramic façade, following the author’s own design, make it a unique, contemporary architectural piece.

The MGA stands out for its multifunctionality and innovative use of space. It houses a modern art and media library, a multifunctional events hall, a cosy cinema, a café, and spaces for educational and art-related activities. The events hall, equipped with state-of-the-art stage technology, can transform into a studio theatre, conference room, concert hall, and venue for banquets and exhibitions. This adaptability makes the MGA a vibrant hub for a wide range of cultural activities.

The building's realization involved the preservation and reconstruction of the 19th-century horse-riding arena's overall form, which had been used as workshops and storage space for the Juliusz Słowacki Theatre. The architects used concrete for the construction and steel for the roof frame. The front wall of the hall was recreated using bricks from the dismantled structure, continuing the characteristic of the old building material. The façade is a continuous and open composition of bands of the glass with screening vertical system of elevation elements from ceramic moulds, in the range of colours of traditional burnt brick.

The MGA project faced several design challenges, the main one being the development of a method of contextual design that would result in a free and innovative form. The architects aimed to create a design that was autonomous and had a modern expression of its own, but at the same time did not obscure the character of the place. The result is a building that respects the morphological continuity of its surroundings while interpreting and abstracting from the context.

The Małopolska Garden of Arts is a shining example of Ingarden & Ewý Architects' innovative approach to design. It is a testament to their ability to create contemporary architecture that respects and draws inspiration from its historical context. This design philosophy earned them the prestigious Platinum A' Architecture, Building and Structure Design Award in 2014, recognizing their exceptional and highly innovative design that contributes to societal wellbeing.