SKRA

Sammanfattning: A stark political system change in Warsaw and an enormous economic spurt have given prominence to private initiatives, leaving behind several public spaces and relevant buildings or at the will of speculative developers. Sports facilities, being one of these public spaces, are having problems of funding, restoration and maintenance, leaving them neglected, though there is a need of them functioning. One of them being Skra, a stadium and four swimming pools designed by the architecture collective “The Penguins” in the 50es and 60es. Iskra - Workers Sports Club, was one of the first in Poland to introduce the artificial surface, tartan, making it possible for big international sporting events along with the four swimming pools, attracting the whole Warsaw to its doorsteps. In addition to the pools and the arena, changing rooms and a café was introduced. The architecture of this complex has a historical significance as it has many characteristics of post-war modernism. However, today it is referred to as the biggest shame in Ochota and that it is time to say goodbye to 95 years of history. This sports area is presently facing an unknown future, some of its more public functions are being used despite the physical conditions and its architecture shape is being lost in the process. Even though the harsh conditions, the area is still used by sports clubs and athletes. This thesis attempts to revitalize an example of polish architecture history and restoring its new role in public life.