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
Loved this Spot? And love your city? Join your local team. Share your favs and become part of our international community!
"Bistro Olkuska" is a bar next to a great market in Warsaw! Have some great ginger beer & a tasty breakfast before or after your shopping & exploration...
by
"Muzeum Narodowe w Warszawie" is a museum that's alive - to get an idea, 'From pharaohs to Lady Gaga' was one of their most successful exhibitions...
by
There are many bars in Warsaw where you can sit in a quiet garden, but "The Cool Cat TR" offers you a charming cocktail garden right in the center!
by
"Hałas Vinyl + Coffee" in Warsaw doesn't only serve amazing espresso, it also has... you guessed it. I love this sort of 'dual identity' cafés...
by
"Kawiarnia Fabryczna" in Warsaw reminds me of a small French bistro where you sit next to the window and can simply gaze at passers-by...
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
"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
"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
"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
"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
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