Case Study

Polish History Museum
Architect
WXCA
Localisation

Żoliborz Warszawa Poland

Muzeum Historii Polski, fasada szklana,

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

The Polish History Museum is a remarkable project, both in terms of its architecture and the innovative solutions implemented within it. It is a six-story building (with two underground and four above-ground levels). The main entrance represents WXCA’s effort in designing a structure that references the layout of historical buildings. Integrated into the space of a historic Tsarist prison, the building features a raw and monumental form, complemented visually by oversized glazed elements. The external sections of the building and the way they were executed refer to different layers of history and include numerous allusions to symbols of Polish architecture. Each side of the building is adorned with façade reliefs, ranging from Romanesque-Gothic ornaments and the Zakopane style to modernism.

CHALLENGES

Modern museums are institutions that have become permanent elements of urban spaces, with clearly defined requirements and specific educational or research functions. They are spaces filled with the movement of visitors, and it is essential to create the right atmosphere for exploration. Our experts faced a challenging task – the use of large-format insulating glass units posed significant difficulties due to the structural behavior of glass and thermal stresses, all while ensuring visitor comfort and supporting sustainable construction.
 

APPLIED SOLUTIONS

The facility is one of the most modern in Europe and stands out with its unique façade. The architects aimed to find the best combination of neutral glazing and solar protection. They chose the COOL-LITE® SKN 083 II solar control glass and the ECLAZ® ONE II low-emissivity glass on extra-clear DIAMANT® glass. This glass composition allows for perfect color rendering thanks to the exceptionally clear DIAMANT® glass, while maximizing the influx of natural light, creating a unique interior atmosphere year-round. ECLAZ® ONE II provides excellent thermal insulation, leading to lower heating costs in winter, and COOL-LITE® SKN 083 II ensures improved thermal comfort even on the hottest, sunniest days without the need for energy-intensive air conditioning.

Laminated and tempered glass was our answer to various acoustic and safety requirements in public spaces (here, the key role is played by STADIP® SILENCE laminated safety glass), enhancing the sound insulation of the glazing and reducing interior noise from street traffic, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in discovering the space.
 

Glass Solutions Used:

  • COOL-LITE® SKN 083 II solar control glass on extra-clear DIAMANT® glass

  • ECLAZ® ONE II low-e glass on extra-clear DIAMANT® glass

  • STADIP® PROTECT 66.2 laminated safety glass on extra-clear DIAMANT® glass

  • STADIP® PROTECT SILENCE 66.2 laminated safety glass with enhanced sound insulation on extra-clear DIAMANT® glass

Gallery

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muzeum historii polski_1
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