Zodiak Warsaw
Architecture pavilion
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.
About this spot
Explore cities like a local with Spotted by Locals - discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our Warsaw guide.
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Warsaw
Fort Mokotów – Mokotów brick history
"Fort Mokotów" in Warsaw once used to defend the tower. Now it's a venue for restaurant & art gallery events - start from getting a beer from Garden!
By
Stefano
Nardone
Pan Tu Nie Stał – Polish retro clothing
"Pan tu nie stał" is a very fashionable clothing company that recently opened their first shop in Warsaw. Wearing their wares is a statement...
By
Magda
Przedmojska
Fotoplastikon – Get to know the old Warsaw
"Fotoplastikon" (Kaiserpanorama) has one of the oldest machines of its type in the world, projecting not only Warsaw, but also many less expected things...
By
Magda
Przedmojska
Warsaw Museum of Computers and Games – In WGE
A visit to the "Warsaw Museum of Computers and Games" in Warsaw's Electronic Market will take you back to the golden age of consoles and personal computers
By
Magda
Przedmojska
Trzy Kruki – Specialty coffee
"Trzy Kruki" in Warsaw is a big specialist in coffees. I love the sweets too. Pop in for a chat with friends and relax after visiting the city!
By
Magda
Przedmojska
Vintage Kolektyw – PRL goods
If you are a fan of PRL (People's Republic of Poland) design, you simply MUST visit "Vintage Kolektyw" cafe in Warsaw. Browsing here is highly educational!
By
Magda
Przedmojska
Hałas – Vinyl + coffee
"Hałas" in Warsaw is one of the cosiest specialty cafes in town with one of the best selections of brand new vinyl records - it will steal your heart!
By
Magda
Przedmojska
Antykwariat Warszawa – Antiquities in Mokotów
"Antykwariat Warszawa" in Warsaw has books in Polish, a wide selection of art & culture books, and some books in English. Check their website!
By
Magda
Przedmojska
Hlonda6 – Kids' paradise in Wilanów
"Hlonda6" in Warsaw is a kids' paradise. Their toys, bags, music boxes etc are extremely high quality and just beautiful. Your eyes will sparkle, guaranteed...
By
Magda
Przedmojska
Bazar na Kole – Gadgetry with history
"Bazar na Kole" in Warsaw amazes me all the time: it's open all year, even with -30 degree temperatures, and has EVERYTHING you might want to buy...
By
Magda
Przedmojska
Muzeum Sztuki Nowoczesnej – Contemporary art
"Muzeum Sztuki Nowoczesnej" in Warsaw, or the Museum of Modern Art, is currently on the river Vistula. Its exhibitions address the broader public...
By
Magda
Przedmojska
Targowisko Sztuki – Young arts
"Targowisko Sztuki" is an art market in Warsaw where (ex)students exhibit their work. There's something original for everyone and at fair prices.
By