Case Study

Modernization of the Urania Sports and Entertainment Hall

Architect
Urban Architect
Localisation

Józefa Piłsudskiego Olsztyn Poland

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

The Urania Hall is one of Olsztyn’s architectural landmarks and serves as a symbol of identity and pride for the local community. During the modernization works, the designers combined historical heritage with modern architectural standards. Their main goal was to preserve the hall’s iconic dome—a symbol of the city—while implementing innovative solutions that have brought the building into the 21st century. The transformation has expanded the facility’s functionality, allowing for the organization of diverse sporting, cultural, and community events.

CHALLENGES

Selecting glazing solutions that align with the new philosophy of the space—opening it up to residents and visitors—while maintaining the modernist vision inspired by futuristic structures and cosmic themes. This had to be achieved without compromising aesthetics, safety, or functionality.

IMPLEMENTED SOLUTIONS

The carefully planned arrangement of glass elements gives lightness to the building’s form and serves as a counterbalance to the massive concrete dome, which has been preserved as a historic feature. The chosen glass composition achieved a balance between aesthetics and functionality, while also improving energy efficiency standards. The use of tempered safety glass (PARSOL® GREY, PLANITHERM® ONE II) and laminated safety glass (66.2 STADIP® PROTECT PLANITHERM® XN) ensured user safety standards.

PLANITHERM® glass is characterized by a low heat transfer coefficient (Ug), meaning that in winter it helps retain heat inside, minimizing energy loss. As a result, the hall has become more energy-efficient, translating into lower maintenance costs and a reduced carbon footprint. Meanwhile, the solar control glass PARSOL® GREY, thanks to its low solar factor (g), helps maintain cooler interior temperatures during summer, reducing the need for air conditioning and other cooling systems.

Applied glass solutions:

  • Tempered glass PARSOL® GREY

  • Laminated safety glass STADIP® PROTECT 55.2

  • Low-emissivity glass PLANITHERM® ONE II, PLANITHERM® XN