Putting a new face on it

Radwar, one of the largest electronics manufacturers in Poland's defense sector, is about to start reconstruction of two of its buildings and convert them into a high-standard office complex. Radwar Business Park, which is expected to be completed within two years, will replace communist-era structures and could bring more glamor to Warsaw's district of Praga.

The two buildings will be almost completely gutted - only the core of reinforced concrete will be used in the construction of the new structures. The current area, approximately 10,000 sqm, will be enlarged to some 13,000 sqm, the lion's share of which will be office space. Around 1,300 sqm will be designated for a retail and service area. Once completed, the entire complex will be leased out. No contracts have been signed yet, however.

"We have been approached by a number of potential clients directly, as well as real estate agencies, but it's too early to sign anything," said Zbigniew Adamiec, project coordinator at Radwar. He also explained that until very recently Radwar had still been in the process of organizing all the necessary administrative procedures and building permits. It intends to resume negotiations once construction begins, potentially this spring.

The design of Radwar Business Park, which was prepared by the Portal architectural studio, envisages an elegant facade of granite and glass. The two rebuilt edifices will be connected to a new building which will be constructed on the ul. Poligonowa side of the plot and will house the retail and service outlets. The buildings will also be connected at the back, creating a secluded patio for the use of future tenants.

The new complex is located some distance from the center, but the investor hopes it will be able to provide class B+ office space. The buildings will be equipped with modern elevators and air-conditioning systems, as well as an underground parking lot for approximately 250 cars. 

Anna Kapica-Harward