Ogrodowa 24 – the metamorphosis of Poznański’s Famuła. The first monument of its kind in Poland

Łódź once again proves that revitalization is its specialty. At 24 Ogrodowa Street, the transformation of one of the city’s most iconic landmarks is underway – the workers’ house built by Izrael Poznański. This is the first municipal mixed-use project in the country, combining modernity with history while implementing a record number of ecological solutions. The first results of the work are already impressive – the 150-year-old 19th-century building is stepping into the 21st century, changing the face of this part of the city.

Mixed-use, Łódź-style – the city’s pioneering project

Łódź, known for successful modernizations such as Wolności Square, Księży Młyn, and EC1, has now turned its attention to the monumental famuły on Ogrodowa Street. These 19th-century workers’ houses, built for employees of Poznański’s factory, have long stood in contrast to the restored spinning mill, now the famous Andel’s Hotel, and the majestic factory owner’s palace, often called the Polish Louvre. Now, thanks to the initiative of Łódzkie Inwestycje, a municipal company, Ogrodowa 24 is becoming Poland’s first municipal mixed-use facility. This is a place where history meets functionality and ecology.

Visible results – a restored facade and more

Work on Ogrodowa 24 is progressing rapidly, and the results are already striking. From Gdańska Street, at the intersection with Ogrodowa, the building has revealed a section of its restored façade – cleaned bricks, repaired gaps, renovated details, and new windows. The full scope of changes will be visible in a few weeks, although the façade facing Andel’s Hotel will take longer, as renovation there is only entering its decisive phase. The most advanced work is taking place in the courtyard, where the façade is nearly completed.

Inside the historic building, a lot is happening as well. The new room layout hints at its future purpose – spaces for living rooms, bedrooms, kitchens, and bathrooms are clearly visible. Modern staircases and elevators have been built, and installations are currently being assembled. Importantly, for the first time in its history, the building will be heated with district heating – an amenity that 19th-century residents could only dream of.

Turnkey apartments – responding to modern needs

The residential units in Poznański’s Famuła have been designed with today’s market in mind. “The pandemic has changed our priorities, which is why even in studio apartments we ensured two separate zones,” explains Mariusz Łysio from Łódzkie Inwestycje. The smallest apartments measure 25 m² due to the historic layout, while the largest three-room units are 60 m². All will be delivered turnkey, fully furnished, and equipped with household appliances, ready for immediate occupancy.

In addition to apartments, office spaces will be available, finished in a way that tenants will only need to furnish them. Commercial spaces will be delivered in a developer-plus standard – with utility connections prepared but allowing for individual arrangements.

Everything for rent – from apartments to restaurants

The entire building at 24 Ogrodowa is intended for rent. Łódzkie Inwestycje plans to announce leasing competitions in late spring. Entrepreneurs who choose the commercial spaces will be able to arrange outdoor seating areas in the green courtyard – an ideal setting for charming cafes and restaurants. This is another step toward creating a space that benefits both residents and businesses.

A green monument – ecology at the forefront

Ogrodowa 24 is not just about revitalization but also an ecological revolution. This registered monument is likely to be the first in Poland to feature such advanced environmental solutions. Solar energy from photovoltaic panels on the roof will power the building, gray water will be reused, and retention tanks for rainwater will be installed beneath the courtyard to support the microclimate and greenery. Green walls on the east and south sides, as well as a covered bicycle parking area with charging stations for electric vehicles, complete the eco-friendly vision.

Construction work will be completed by the end of 2025, with interior finishing continuing until spring 2026, while courtyard landscaping will begin before summer. New tenants are expected to move in next year – almost exactly in March 2026.

What about the neighboring famuły?

The two remaining famuły at 26 and 28 Ogrodowa have been purchased by Arche, a company known for projects such as the revitalization of Uphagen Manor in Gdańsk. The investor has not yet disclosed plans, but changes are already visible, promising a new life for the area. Ogrodowa 24 is just the beginning of a transformation that could reshape this part of Łódź for years to come.

source: based on a press release from the City of Łódź Office