Atrium Architekti Turns 1960s Slovak Workers' Dormitory into 507 Homes
Atrium Architekti, a Slovak architectural firm, has revamped KOSMALT, a thirteen-storey dormitory in Košice, originally constructed in the 1960s for employees of VSŽ steelworks. The renovation, led by architects Ladislav Greč and Róbert Kandrík, maintains the building's architectural essence, especially the eastern and western facades, which feature a grid of 22 by 13 concrete modules, now treated in monochromatic grey. Inside, original elements such as cast terrazzo flooring and marble cladding have been revealed. The updated structure includes 507 private units, with compact XS apartments measuring approximately 21 square meters. Communal areas encourage social engagement, and a wayfinding system enhances navigation. This project exemplifies the adaptation of postwar architecture for contemporary living. The transformation is captured in photographs by Matej Hakár.
Key facts
- Atrium Architekti transformed KOSMALT, a 1960s workers' dormitory in Košice, Slovakia, into 507 homes.
- The building was originally designed by architects Ladislav Greč and Róbert Kandrík for VSŽ steelworks employees.
- KOSMALT is named after a type of enameled steel produced by the local steelworks.
- The renovation preserved the original facades, which are grids of 22 by 13 identical concrete modules.
- Original materials such as terrazzo flooring, marble cladding, travertine plinth, and steel beams were restored.
- The building now contains 507 private units, including compact XS apartments of about 21 square meters.
- A wayfinding system uses salmon, ivory, and yellow colors with plus and minus symbols.
- Photographer Matej Hakár documented the project.
- The project was submitted to designboom via its DIY submissions feature.
Entities
Artists
- Ladislav Greč
- Róbert Kandrík
- Matej Hakár
Institutions
- Atrium Architekti
- designboom
- VSŽ steelworks
Locations
- Košice
- Slovakia