Changes in space of Powisle by functional categories in the years 2004-2014

Abstract

Powiśle is an area of Warsaw, and its current character has been formed by location on the valley, close to the Vistula river. For centuries, this area was subject to frequent flooding which caused epidemics. Powiśle was inhabited by the lower social classes with numerous pathologies and high crime rate. Changes have occurred since the nineteenth century, when there was a significant development of industry. During the Warsaw Uprising most of the pre-war buildings have been destroyed. Restorative plans halted further development of the area. This research determines the current characteristics of Powiśle by five functions: transport, educational, recreational, office and residential. The analysis covers the decade from 2004 to 2014, when changes were extremely intensive. Powiśle turned into a trendy and attractive place. Office space was doubled, and luxury residential projects were completed. Brownfield sites have been revitalized and made available as public spaces. More than 30% of the space are now green areas. Powiśle nowadays is closer to the city center through the second metro line and it is popular cultural and educational place. The formation of academic buildings creates areas of science. It stimulates the development of the whole area, because students and employees need service points, pubs, clubs and shops. With the modernization of the Vistula boulevards and location of the popular clubs on the waterfront more and more people spend their free time next to the river. Powiśle is a favorite place for visitors of restaurants and pubs for several years. The above analysis shows that Powiśle underwent a process of gentrification