Zodiak, the Warsaw Architecture Pavilion, used to be a example of post-war Polish modernist architecture and a part of the so-called "Ściana Wschodnia" (Eastern Wall) - an architectural plan around pasaż Wiecha in the very center of Warsaw. Back then, Zodiak used to be a famous cafe.
Two elements of the original Zodiak are still there - the neon "Zodiak" designed by Professor Jan Bogusławski (which can be seen from the outside) and a splendid, typical for Polish art of the communist era glass pattern (inside, at the staircase). The new Zodiak was created through the cooperation of the city of Warsaw and the Polish Architecture Society and was designed by Kalata Architekci. The square in front of it (read on to get more info on squares in the city) was designed by Krakow architects Gowin & Siuta. Apparently, the water curtain stops running when you enter it. Till now I haven't had the guts to check if it works ;).
Currently, the task of the pavilion is to enable a broad dialogue between the city and its residents concerning the architecture of Warsaw. The current exhibition, under the name "Place Warszawy (do odzyskania)" - Squares of Warsaw (to be regained) --concentrates on the architectural form of a square to be regained for the people (as opposed to parking spaces, bus stops etc.). In other words, in the square as practice.
Check their webpage for programme.
Find your way with 164 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"Wybrzeże Puckie" is one of the nicest walking paths by the river in Warsaw. There is a field of grass, an orchard and there's even wild boar and deer...
by
"BarKa" Warsaw, a place I would dare translate as "BarGe", sitting on the Vistula. Even though the river is not the prettiest, this bar is helping...
by
"Las Sobieskiego" park is the second biggest green space in Warsaw. It has something for everyone: joggers, dog walkers, horse and bike riders.
by
"Plac Zabaw" Warsaw is an open-air venue right on the Vistula river. It's 2000m² of space to get some sun and fresh air. I just love the concerts there...
by
"Veganda" is one of the newest vegan places to appear on Warsaw's culinary map, and currently it's my absolute favorite! Check out their lunch specials...
by
"Leonardo Verde" is an Italian restaurant in Warsaw, with the difference that they also make vegan pizza and gluten-free pasta -- the best I've ever had...
by
"Matcha Bistro & Bar" in Warsaw is my solution to drinking something other than coffee when going out. This is my new favorite spot for matcha latte!
by
"Chopin Airport" in Warsaw has a perfect spot for actual plane spotters. Follow this tip and you will have breath-taking views -- guaranteed!
by
"Gdański Bridge" in Warsaw has two levels: one for cars and another for pedestrians, trams and bikes. I love this place for pictures -- and I'm not alone!
by
"Bazar Miejski" is a second-hand clothes shop in Warsaw. You can find big brands & Polish originals here, and you can even rent your own shelf. Genius!
by
"Kopiec Powstania Warszawskiego" in Warsaw is a monument that rose from the ashes of the city after '45. I love riding my mountain bike all the way up!
by
164 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 164 Insider Tips