Libeskind's landmark

The Łódź-born architect of world renown Daniel Libeskind joined Jean Francois Ott, president of Orco Property Group, for a gala in Warsaw officially marking the kickoff of the sale of apartments in the Złota 44 skyscraper. The 192-meter tower will contain 251 luxury apartments on 54 floors. Over 60 apartments have already been sold.

Speaking in Polish, Libeskind emphasized that he had treated the Złota 44 design differently from his previous projects.

"I've known this place since my childhood," said Libeskind. "This is the very heart of Warsaw, a city with great potential. Złota 44 is supposed to bring fame to the city, underline its value. This is a building which reflects Warsaw's aspirations, an exceptional building, which has been created by Warsaw's history and its perspectives, a building thanks to which a breakthrough will come - In the most important cities buildings with fascinating designs will be erected."

According to the architect, the building will resemble an eagle wearing a crown, which holds special significance since the Polish Eagle on the country's national emblem was deprived of its crown during the years under communist rule. He said the building would evince Warsaw's greatness and dignity, and would prove that the city can live again after enduring so many catastrophes and wars.

Ott revealed that the construction works on Złota 44 would probably commence on on February 26, which just happens to be his birthday, and last for some 20 months.

Ott added that with the authorship of Libeskind, who is also the master planner behind the Freedom Tower to be built at Ground Zero in Manhattan, the building on ul. Złota will become a major Warsaw landmark.

Located near the Złote Tarasy office and commercial complex and the Palace of Culture and Science, the building will also boast a commercial area. The future residents will have access to a large lobby, a recreational floor housing a 25-meter long swimming pool, as well as a parking lot for 388 cars.