Thursday, 27 November 2025
A new multi-functional public building—the Municipal Cultural Center “STODOŁA”—has been completed in Zamarski, one of the oldest villages in Cieszyn Silesia. The project, designed by ARCHiTEKT studio under architect Paweł Kuczyński, is a contemporary interpretation of traditional rural architecture and brings together three public functions: the Municipal Cultural Center, the Volunteer Fire Service unit, and the local community meeting space (sołtysówka). The scheme is intended to support local activities while fitting into the historical and landscape context of the village.
The architectural concept by Bartosz Kuczyński is based on three separate volumes resembling rural houses and barns, linked by a shared ground-floor area. This division allows each function to operate independently while forming a cohesive structure that integrates with the surroundings. The building is partially recessed into the terrain, with its form adapted to the natural topography and the pedestrian route connecting the park and the historic St. Roch church.
“When in 2019, during the commune harvest in Zamarskie, I announced the construction of this facility, I knew one thing – it is supposed to be an investment that will set a new standard in our municipality. From the beginning, I wanted the Municipal Cultural Center of the BARN to be not only functional, but also architecturally bold and made of the highest quality materials. Today I can say that this vision has been fully realized. This building is an example of conscious, responsible design and the effect of consistent work of many people, but also a proof that the local government can be a true architect of success – if it thinks long-term, courageously and with respect for local heritage,” said Grzegorz Sikorski, Mayor of Hażlach Commune.
According to the design team, one of the priorities was to ensure that the exterior reflected the rural landscape while the interior met contemporary operational needs. “When designing a multifunctional building, we wanted the form to be rooted in the local landscape, but the interiors correspond to modern utility standards. We were looking for materials that will provide both durability and a friendly, warm environment for the daily activities of residents. We decided on HERADESIGN® Superfine and HERADESIGN® Creative Effect ceiling tiles, because their natural structure, acoustic properties and aesthetics perfectly fit into our vision of the social space – modern, but close to man,” said architect Paweł Kuczyński.
The project incorporates HERADESIGN® acoustic materials from Knauf Ceiling Solutions, used in both standard and decorative versions. The natural wood wool panels in the Nature 13 finish appear throughout public areas, classrooms, and the main performance hall, providing consistent acoustics and referencing materials found in local wooden architecture.
Given the building’s intended role as a venue for events, rehearsals, meetings and everyday community activities, acoustic performance was a central focus. “This is a building used by children, seniors, music bands and residents during meetings. Good acoustics are the basis – not only for performances, but also for everyday work and conversations. The solutions used really make a difference – in the performance hall you can talk without reverb, in the other rooms there is silence needed to talk with residents, and classes for children run in comfortable conditions. This changes the quality of stay in this place,” said Cecilia Gasz-Płońska, Director of the Municipal Cultural Centre in Hażlach.
The HERADESIGN® ceilings contribute not only to interior acoustics but also to sustainability objectives. The materials hold PEFC, FSC, and Cradle to Cradle® certifications, reflecting the use of renewable inputs and suitability for recycling—factors increasingly expected in public-sector developments.
The “STODOŁA” Cultural Center is presented as an example of a community building that integrates functional requirements with sensitivity to local history and contemporary design standards. Its combination of public programmes, architectural form and material choices aims to create a long-term, adaptable space for village residents.
