A piece of living history

Yareal, the developer and owner of the Renaissance building on Warsaw's Plac Zbawiciela, plans to construct a luxurious residential complex of 40 apartments with a total space of 4,500 sqm on the site of a former foundry on ul. Hoża in central Warsaw. The developer hopes to receive approval from the city monument supervisor and launch construction work in spring 2007. The value of the investment is estimated at EUR 10 (zł.39.6) million, including the plot.

The building was originally built by the Łopieński Brothers, one of the oldest family businesses in the city, which was founded in 1862. The company used the foundry to produce fine metalwork, which was used in numerous palaces, churches and official buildings. Yareal plans to put up a plaque on the building to commemorate the family.

Yareal acquired the property in February this year, which according to the spatial development plan is designated for residential development. As parts of the existing buildings are in danger of collapsing, much of them will have to be pulled down and rebuilt.

However, the new development will retain the original outer walls, which will correspond with the architecture of a nearby cheese factory and convent. Yareal intends to restore the historical facade and entrance to the courtyard. As well as apartments, the complex will include a two-storey underground parking garage and facilities such as a fitness club.