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An office that appeals to the senses. Take part in the survey of the Gdańsk University of Technology!

Posted on by Katarzyna Halicka

The modern work environment is undergoing dynamic changes – more and more employers consciously shape their office spaces to support the efficiency and creativity of employees or help them in teamworking. Modern offices take into account the diverse needs of users, offering shared and individual work zones, taking care of places for relaxation, regeneration, and even… a short, comforting nap. In many companies, flexible spaces that can be easily and quickly adapted to changing needs, focused work rooms, rooms dedicated to team brainstorming, play zones, spacious kitchens and dining rooms, or properly soundproofed phone booths are a standard in many companies.

Space design and well-being

 

Research clearly shows that the arrangement of office and residential spaces has a significant impact on our well-being, mental health, and efficiency. Appropriate lighting, the use of natural materials, taking into account the principles of neuroaesthetics; All of this helps to create an environment conducive to well-being. Biophilia, for example, plays an increasingly important role in design, including the concept of “Biophilic Dopamine”, emphasizing the relationship between man and nature and helping to create spaces that have a positive impact on our senses.

 

At Olivia Centre, we attach great importance to creating work environments that not only meet functional requirements, but also really support wellbeing. It is no coincidence that we cooperate with the Design Anatomy studio, which has been creating creative and functional interiors for years, corresponding to the latest trends, such as the already mentioned biophilic design or sustainable use of materials. Light plays a significant role in DA projects, as it is one of the most important factors shaping the quality of space. The studio also takes exceptional care of the acoustic comfort of the rooms.

 

By creating spaces that meet the needs of their users, Design Anatomy is based not only on conclusions resulting from the observation of changing work models, but also those from research. The relationships between the work environment and efficiency, mental well-being, well-being and creativity are analyzed, among m.in other things. This allows designers to tailor solutions to the real needs of the organization and their team members. As a result, offices designed by Design Anatomy gain recognition from the industry and are repeatedly awarded for consistent aesthetics, functionality and understanding of the real needs of users.

 

  • European Property Awards 2024 – Best Office Interior award for the Just Join IT office design
  • European Property Awards 2023 – two awards for projects for LPP Contact Center and Deribit
  • CBRE Office Superstar 2019 – awards for the best office in the Tri-City for Nordea and the best recreational space for Sii Poland

 

Help change workplaces for the better. Take part in the study of a PhD student at the Gdańsk University of Technology!

We are convinced that creating space with the well-being of users in mind should be based on constantly deepened knowledge. That’s why we support research that helps us better understand how the work environment affects our concentration, health, well-being and relationships. We cooperate with universities, including the Faculty of Architecture of the Gdańsk University of Technology.

 

This time we encourage you toabout participation in an anonymous survey on the research carried out by Joanna Francuzik, a PhD student at Gdańsk Tech, whose scientific interests focus on shaping the working environment in office spaces, with particular emphasis on the role of lighting, ergonomics and spatial layout. The aim of the study is to analyse the impact of natural and artificial lighting and space organisation on the daily functioning of employees. The data collected will be used to develop specific design recommendations to support the creation of more functional, healthy and friendly workplaces.

 

 


Your opinion matters a lot!
Fill out the survey and help create even better offices:

 

English version

English version

 

Importance of results

The results of the study will allow for a better understanding of the needs of office users and indicate specific factors affecting comfort, professional satisfaction and general well-being. This knowledge will be used in the design and modernization of space at Olivia Centre – so as to better support everyday work, regeneration and social interactions.

A few office design trends in Design Anatomy

 

▪☑︎ Biophilic design – focus on nature

Contact with nature improves concentration, reduces stress and has a positive effect on mental health. In this spirit, m.in was designed. Olivia Garden.

 

▪︎ Light – a factor of mood and efficiency

Proper lighting improves concentration, supports the circadian rhythm and affects the mood. Check more…

 

▪☑︎ Neurodiversity – a space for every style of work

Contemporary teams are cognitively diverse. When designing offices, Design Anatomy takes into account different ways of receiving stimuli and the need for individualization. It introduces, for example, quiet work zones, video call booths, and designs focus and regeneration areas, which increases comfort and supports inclusivity.

 

▪☑︎ Less waste and sustainability

Ecological materials, recycled equipment, modularity and the possibility of easy rearrangement – these are the standard in projects carried out in Olivia Centre today. Offices designed by Design Anatomy – m.in. for Sii Poland (rearrangement 2023-2024) or Viterra – use, for example, PET panels, recycled fabrics, and even elements made of metal scraps and cable trays. It is a responsible and aesthetic design.

 

▪︎ Flex spaces

Hybrid work, project teams, changing everyday needs – flexibility is the key today. Therefore, it is worth designing spaces that can be easily rearranged, adapted to meetings, individual work or joint brainstorming. Thanks to this, the office is alive and responds to the rhythm of the organization.

 

▪☑︎ Wellness and mindfulness zones

The well-being of employees can be supported not only by ergonomics, but also by creating places of relaxation and regeneration. Green terraces, stretching zones, indoor gardens – these are spaces that allow you to breathe and reset.

 

▪︎ Ergonomics and personalization of the workstation

Adjustable desks, ergonomic chairs, the ability to change the working position, individual lighting – all this has a real impact on the health and comfort of employees.

 

See Design Anatomy’s office projects

 

Management is an art that can be learned

Posted on by Katarzyna Halicka

What does mixed-use mean in practice? A full range of possibilities – a place full of life, a space that allows you to ensure a balance between work and free time, but also a number of opportunities for business development, not only in terms of numbers and results, but also competence and improvement of business quality.

 

A well-functioning body means all its organs working efficiently. With regard to an office center that is called mixed-use, it should be recognized that it should be a space where all the needs of its tenants are met. Since the popularization of remote and hybrid work, office centers have understood that in order to attract employees to work, they need to supplement their spaces with additional functions that benefit people who choose stationary work. Therefore, interest clubs are developing, common spaces are gaining new places conducive to relaxation and work in non-standard conditions, but there are also additional services that provide new opportunities for the employees themselves.

 

An example of an office complex developing the range of its offer can be Olivia Centre in Gdańsk, which has prepared an exotic Olivia Garden on its premises, an observation deck on the 32nd floor of Olivia Star, an event centre on its 34th floor, and is currently preparing its first residential building, which is being built next to office buildings. In this way, it will become not only a place for work and entertainment, but also a living space. The less obvious functions that are available in Olivia include educational opportunities at virtually every stage of development. The educational offer starts from the preschool age, includes primary school, high school and postgraduate studies, and ends with the top-class development offer run by specialized entities. Among them, the leader is the Gdańsk Foundation for Management Development, which has been present on the market for over 30 years. Its capabilities are complemented by the O4 coworking space, which develops its training offer for employees who want to improve their competences before they think about the professional GFKM training offer.

 

 

– Being in a diverse environment in itself carries a value that allows you to develop, learn and imitate good practices, but mixed-use centres offer something much more: it is also a space for improving competences – emphasizes Bogusław Wieczorek, the representative of the management board of Olivia Centre. – The development of the educational and training offer is related to the needs of our residents and results from the combination of experience of numerous entities operating in Olivia. O4, working on the LeadWell conference, gathered experienced managers of companies from all over Olivia and beyond, who share their knowledge and experience with both novice entrepreneurs and experienced managers who are expanding their competences or refreshing their knowledge. This is another area of synergy and a comprehensive approach to cooperation with our residents in our business hub.

 

The LeadWell conference, organized by O4, includes m.in workshops. During the first one, the participants answered the question of how they interpret the motto of the conference. The answers showed that the title good management is a mix of good practices, care for quality, but also well-being. All participants agreed that these concepts should not be separated. Otherwise, management would only mean a short-sighted pursuit of results enclosed in Excel tables, regardless of the sense and costs of these activities – costs on the part of employees, leaders, and the corporations themselves. The participants pointed out that focusing on results does not translate into long-term growth and building a strong market position of enterprises. The second conclusion is that management is an art in two senses of the term: both a difficult skill to achieve, which thanks to work and talent develops like a craft, and an art that requires artistry, sensitivity and versatility. However, unlike the creative processes carried out by artists in their workshops, in this case it means more interaction and cooperation than solitary work on the final result, which is the product of the artist’s own genius. That is why social skills are so important in this case, which can and should be developed.

 

 

Conferences and workshops organized by O4 are an excellent prelude to the development of competences, which can be continued in Olivia at the Gdańsk Foundation for Management Development. The Foundation organizes over 700 training days each year and they include programs related to leadership, team management and broadly understood managerial development. According to Krzysztof Jędrzejewski, Sustainable Development Coordinator at GFKM, the opportunity to follow the full path of managerial development is one of the distinguishing features of the institution: We offer a broad and comprehensive education program: from the first steps in management to the highest managerial positions. With its unique approach, the organization educates leaders at every level, offering training for new managers, programs for middle and senior management, and advanced courses for top management. Over the decades, GFKM has already educated more than 4,000 Executive MBA graduates who can continue their education as part of Post-MBA programs. Thanks to the projects carried out by GFKM, Olivia is also a forge of highly qualified managerial staff, among which Executive MBA programs are in the lead. GFKM is accredited by CEEMAN IQA, the title of Business School with Significant Impact 2020 and the implemented ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System.

 

– Our goal is to create a space where everyone, from an employee, through a leader, to a business owner, will find the right tools for development – sums up Bogusław Wieczorek. – Olivia Centre is not only a workplace, but also an environment of inspiration, cooperation and mutual learning. We believe that by investing in people, we build lasting value for both our residents and the entire business ecosystem we create together.

 

Green revolution in Olivia Centre

Posted on by Katarzyna Halicka

Green Olivia – this is the name given to the evolutionary changes that have been introduced at Olivia Centre in Gdańsk since 2020. Pocket gardens, recreational fields, avenues of green trees and an exotic garden are being created on its premises. All this with the well-being of employees in mind, who had the opportunity to speak about the direction of changes during the workshops preceding the changes.

 

The benefits of the presence of nature in human life have been the subject of a number of scientific studies. The conclusions from them prove that there is practically no area of life that would not be positively affected by greenery and vegetation. So far, however, green areas have dominated in residential areas and in urban spaces, but the currently dominant trend of putting human well-being in the center of attention means that pocket gardens are also being developed in workplaces, providing places for relaxation among greenery.

 

One of the latest studies, published by the Journal of Environmental Psychology , contains a broad compendium of the positive impact of human contact with nature. The beneficial effects include reducing stress levels, beneficial effects on the development and stimulation of the senses, and strengthening social bonds. Greenery is also often a very effective barrier, reducing noise levels, allowing you to experience contact with vivid colors, smells, insects. All this reduces stress levels, allows you to soothe, relax and calm down. The positive effects of greenery in the human environment are also important in the professional area: they translate into greater creativity, better relationships in the workplace and efficiency.

 

Communing with nature can also be inspiring and stimulate the creation of inventions that imitate solutions that have been present in nature for centuries. This area is dealt with by the field of knowledge called biomimetics, and it is said that the art of its application was perfectly mastered by Leonardo Da Vinci, whose numerous inventions, such as the construction of a submarine or a helicopter, were inspired by nature.

 

The development of green areas therefore introduces a number of benefits and it is not surprising that this positive impact has also been noticed and is used to an increasing extent in office centres. An excellent example is Olivia Centre in Gdańsk, the largest Polish business centre, which currently has 26,000 inhabitants. m.kw. biologically active areas, among which there is already a green patio with relaxation areas, a fountain, an alley of trees and a pocket garden, as well as 8000m3 of the exotic Olivia Garden. The process of change was initiated on the basis of the results of research among employees of companies that have their offices in Olivia and design thinking workshops, during which they were involved in creative processes of transformation of the environment of their daily work. The projects initiated at that time resulted in the creation of Olivia Garden, the first exotic garden available in a business center in Poland, as well as numerous changes that residents can observe over the past years. However, this is not all and The investor has already started working on the transformation of further public spaces. Thanks to this project, more and more spaces are gradually being turned into green areas and pocket parks full of places to relax.

– In opposition to the ubiquitous high and intensive development, we took care not only of the natural environment, but above all of the comfort of work and rest of Olivia’s residents – says Karolina Bernisz-Grabska, designer from the architectural studio Design Anatomy, which is responsible for the implementation of the project of changes in green spaces in Olivia Centre. ” This natural, friendly and slightly unusual space was created not only to allow the centre to obtain BREEAM or LEED certificates, but also to enable users to return to nature and provide a nice meeting place on hot days. To this end, we have reduced paved areas to a minimum in favor of green islands. They are full of plants, force air flow, store water and are a shelter for insects. The space was met with great approval, and its popularity exceeded our wildest expectations. Encouraged by this success, the investor follows the blow and turns more land into new boutique gardens. Before the reconstruction of the patio, the percentage of greenery was about 5%, after the metamorphosis, greenery accounts for almost 50% of the area. We would like more, but we are limited by the necessary fire roads or communication routes. In the next stages, there will be such curiosities as a section of wild strawberries, strawberries or fruit trees. There will also be a place for a rose garden. Our patio is alive and it is difficult to determine the number of plants. Natural seedlings or self-sown plants appear. Each subsequent season surprises us positively.

One of the most original formats that can be found in office centers is also the exotic Olivia Garden, which has been available to Olivia employees, residents of the Tri-City and tourists since 2021. It is a unique space that is a real oasis of vegetation, where 4 thousand plants from 5 continents and reaching up to 11 meters are located. In the garden there are places for quiet work, integration meetings, a café and a bistro. It is not only an original, but also a very popular place where employees can meet to organize creative brainstorms, focus on work or simply meet with friends during and after work. For tourists, Olivia Garden is a unique space where they can eat exotic dishes, meet friends and relax surrounded by majestic nature.

 

From the very beginning, green areas have been filled with public areas of Olivia Centre and experience has shown that in the season deckchairs spread on the patio, near the fountain, are among the most crowded common areas of Olivia – says Bogusław Wieczorek, representative of the management board of Olivia Centre. It is no different with the avenue of trees, offering shade and respite from the heat on the warmest days of the year. Our first test project of a pocket park was the space between Olivia Star and Olivia Prime and we can openly admit that the popularity of this place exceeded all our expectations. The garden has been developing over the years and enriches our space in a unique way, which is why we are taking further steps to green other spaces of the Olivia Centre.

Design Anatomy will design 245 apartments of Olivia Pulse

Posted on by Katarzyna Halicka

Olivia Pulse is the latest building that will complement Olivia Centre’s offer with a residential function. As a result, a full range of functions will be created in the largest Polish business center and it will gain the status of a real mixed-use project. Design Anatomy will design all the apartments and common areas of the building that is already under construction.

Olivia Pulse is Olivia’s first residential building with 245 apartments for rent. The investment will be characterized by two zones: a four-storey part located directly at Grunwaldzka Avenue, which is the podium of the building, and a 13-storey tower rising above it, located deep at the plot on which the building is being built. Importantly, each apartment is offered with a ready-made interior design, full finishing and equipment. Customers can choose from the following designoptions: Harmony, Vital and Life. Their design is the result of the work of architects from the award-winning architectural studio Design Anatomy, which has completed over 200,000 projects in its portfolio. sq.m. of offices, a viewing floor on the 32nd floor of Olivia Star, a conference space on the 34th floor, as well as numerous architectural and interior design projects of apartments and offices located throughout the Tri-City.

“This is the largest order in the history of our office in the apartment segment ,” says Artur Kuczyński, Member of the Management Board of Design Anatomy. – The new building being built in Olivia will introduce a completely new quality and functions. Olivia will gain residents, and thus a fully alive facility, which after 5.00 p.m. will be filled not only by participants of cultural events, conferences or restaurant customers, but also by permanent residents. Entrusting Design Anatomy with a project of this scale is a unique challenge for us, because as part of the order we have not only the preparation of designs for such a large number of residential units and common areas, but also the investor’s supervision over their implementation. At the same time, we are implementing several other, mainly office projects, so we entered 2025 with a package of orders almost entirely involving our processing capacity, and this gives us an opportunity to develop our office.

 

Anna Branicka, leading architect at Design Anatomy, emphasizes that the interior style will be based on the biophilic design trend, which has not only already been used in Olivia’s previous buildings, but is also close to the philosophy of interior design in Design Anatomy: Our “stylistic direction” is a place pulsating with good energy, supporting well-being and vitality. Biophilic design has been very close to us for a long time and we have worked in this style, designing both the common areas of office buildings and office interiors. At Olivia Pulse, we also introduce as many elements as possible into the interiors that integrate space with nature – large areas of windows not only let in the right amount of natural light, but also open the interiors to beautiful landscapes. To complement these views, we arrange space, using colors drawing from nature, good quality materials, varied textures, atmospheric lighting or plants in common areas.

The designed apartments and common areas are implemented with a modern, but at the same time timeless style in mind, which will allow residents to provide comfort of living in a well-designed interior that has a great impact on the user. As Karolina Bernisz-Grabska, an architect from Design Anatomy, emphasizes, design trends have changed in recent years and design is now more focused on people and their needs than ostentatious effects emphasizing the social status of the resident: We are slowly moving away from flashy trends, which, due to their distinct nature, quickly get boring. As interior users, we are tired of aggressive colors and forms. The chaos and rush of the world around us makes us look for an antidote, a shelter where we can rest and recharge our batteries, which is why we are increasingly choosing a calm, classic, timeless style at home. The interiors are smaller, but more cozy – they feature subdued colors, simple forms and noble materials. The growing environmental awareness also has a great impact on the designed interiors. We give up “disposable” materials for sustainable and good quality. We also introduce technical innovations more carefully – we are not guided by a temporary fashion, but by a practical factor, thanks to which we better adapt them to our own expectations and use them longer, which also has an ecological dimension. We pay less attention to what is trendy, in favor of what we like, what we feel good in. Hence so many sentimental elements – memories reign supreme and the unrivaled style and design of the 60s, which we have learned to define as vintage.

 

The interior finishing styles of the apartments offered to customers allow them to be adapted to the preferences and lifestyle of the residents. The architects proposed three variants of interiors: Harmony, Vital and Life. Harmony style, symbolizing an oasis of peace, was created for people looking for peace and relaxation. The colors of off-white and beige combined with simple finishes and accessories in shades of natural wood are conducive to calming and relaxation. Minimalist interiors, subtle details and natural materials help to create a space that soothes the senses and allows you to break away from the everyday hustle and bustle. In the first part, we have located a kitchenette, which then smoothly transitions into the relaxation area – Karolina Bernisz-Grabska describes this style. Right behind it, we have prepared a bedroom area with a comfortable, spacious bed. The design has been prepared to ensure full harmony of the entire interior.

 

 

A Vital style apartment is a space full of life energy, combining natural earth tones with invigorating green accents. Bright colors create a friendly and fresh atmosphere, while green accents introduce an element of nature, which adds dynamism and optimism to the interior. The furniture has gained a deeper, darker shade of walnut wood, which gives the interior elegance and expressiveness. Subtle accessories complement the arrangement with warmth and coziness, creating a space that combines modern design with natural character, ideal for people who value harmony, contact with nature and are looking for a balance between peace and vitality. As Karolina Bernisz-Grabska emphasizes, the style of this variant of interior finishing has been enlivened with a bit of greenery: The color is supposed to be one of the most fashionable this year, and at the same time it is timeless, as it evokes good associations with nature. We keep accessories in this tone: carpet, chairs or pillows. A comfortable sofa will allow you to rest for a while with your favorite book. We also found a place for a beautiful table that will allow you to enjoy the time spent at an intimate dinner.

 

On the other hand, apartments maintained in the Life style are teeming with warmth and positive energy. Vivid colors inspired by pomegranate and fig fruits fill the interior with joy and create a cozy atmosphere. Intense colors add character and stimulate creativity, making the interior an ideal environment for people who like to surround themselves with expressive, yet subdued colors that affect their well-being. The bathroom, decorated in burgundy and navy blue tones, fits perfectly into the dynamic character of the apartment, while introducing a note of sophistication. As Karolina Bernisz-Grabska emphasizes, this style is a mix of light and colors: Room lighting will play a major role in them: The atmosphere of the interiors is created by the play of light, which harmonizes with the wallpapers and original paintings used on the walls. The fabrics we have prepared for the windows are simple and classic, which gives the interior an elegant note. In the living room, the main accent is a comfortable sofa and a practical table that functionally connects with the kitchenette.

 

In each apartment, bathrooms matching the style and color are also prepared. The main idea that guided the architects was convenience and comfort, and all accessories and equipment are designed with care and the latest trends.

 

Timeless classic solutions, subdued colours and good quality materials are also the leitmotifs of the Olivia Pulse common areas project. The walls and ceiling will be kept in dark tones, which will be perfectly complemented by lighting, as well as the floor and high plinths, made of light-coloured tiles, which will illuminate the passageways – emphasizes Anna Branicka. In the entrance areas on the ground floor, the color and material base will be similar: metal, dark wood structure, wallpapers in shades of brown and beige. There will be more glass, additional colors in upholstery fabrics, individually designed furniture and Mood lighting. The interior we design will be cozy and atmospheric with a hint of modern elegance and, as usual, will be prepared with attention to detail. Olivia Pulse is a perfect complement to Olivia Centre – a vibrant place on the map of the Tri-City – a response to the search for harmony, peace and comfort. Our goal is to create a space with good energy, where you can calm down or relax.

The areas of the premises range from 25 to 63 m.kw. The construction of Olivia Pulse has already begun, and the planned date of acceptance of the premises is the 3rd quarter of 2026.

The Olivia Prize 2024 awards have gone to the winners!

Posted on by Katarzyna Halicka

The fifth edition of the Olivia Prize awards is behind us. This time, Olivia Centre, the largest Polish business centre, awarded 5 main prizes and 3 distinctions. The ceremonial gala, during which the statuettes were awarded, took place on the 34th floor of Olivia Star, and the patronage over this year’s edition was taken by Fahrenheit Union of Universities in Gdańsk and the United Nations Global Compact Network Poland.

 

Olivia Centre is the largest business centre in Poland, which since 2020 has been awarding prizes to the most interesting business and social initiatives. This time, the organizer decided to expand the formula and award prizes and distinctions also to promising Pomeranian scientists and a nationwide business environment institution. The jury consisting of: Marta Moksa (O4 Coworking), Prof. Ph.D. Sylwia Mrozowska (Univentum Labs), Jolanta Szydłowska (Gdańsk Foundation for Management Development), Grzegorz Borowski (Infoshare), Paweł Jemioł (Nordea), Mateusz Kusznierewicz, multiple Polish medalist in sailing and Remigiusz Wojciechowski (Bayer).

 

Olivia Impact

 

The main prize in the Olivia Impact 2024 category, awarded to companies and projects that contribute to business development to the greatest extent, was won by the Pomerania Development Agency for the consistently implemented Invest in Pomerania programme, which works to improve the investment attractiveness of Pomerania.

 

The distinction in this category went to the team of the ARCO by Paco Pérez and Treinta y Tres restaurants and chef Antonio Arcieri for obtaining a number of prestigious international awards (Bib Gourmand star and distinction of the Michelin guide, La Liste, The Best Chef Awards, Star Wine List, Best of Award of Excellence). Winning so many awards has a huge impact on the promotion of Gdańsk on the gastronomic map of the world, as well as the development of a number of local cooperators of these restaurants.

 

Olivia Harmony

 

In the Olivia Harmony category, awarded to projects with the highest social dimension, the main prize was won by Capgemini Polska. The statuette was awarded for the Oh, Christmas Tree! initiative – a project that made it possible to fulfill the Christmas dreams of the charges of the Korczak Nursing Home in Gdańsk Oliwa and the planting of 9000 trees by over 200 employees in 6 locations in the Pomeranian Voivodeship.

 

In this category, the award went to Aspire Systems Poland for a number of environmental and charity initiatives as well as actions for physical and mental health. The jury wanted to emphasize the scale of pro-social and ecological projects that are implemented at Aspire. In 2024 alone, the company implemented as many as 5 such projects.

 

Olivia Everyday Hero

 

A new competition category was also Olivia Everyday Hero – for an individual for her social involvement. For 2024, the award was won by Karol Grodzicki from Speeron, who is also the head of the IT Department of the Polish Scouting and Guiding Association Headquarters. The jury appreciated Karol Grodzicki’s commitment to the Safe from Harm initiative, which aims to prevent violence against children and to conduct training for over 20 thousand members of the ZHP staff via an e-learning platform.

 

For supporting the community of the business services sector in Poland and the organization of one of the most important business conferences Follow the Leaders in Gdańsk, the Olivia Connect 2024 award was won by Pro Progressio. This institution has been working for years to connect and promote entrepreneurs, supports their development, organizes a number of business events, and develops numerous reports and analyzes to see trends, opportunities and risks of business conducted in Poland.

 

Olivia Hero of the Future

 

In this year’s edition, for the first time, the Olivia Hero of the Future awards were presented, the aim of which is to support and promote innovative projects carried out by Pomeranian scientists. This category was organised in partnership with the Daniel Fahrenheit Association of Universities in Gdańsk, which includes the Medical University of Gdańsk, the Gdańsk University of Technology and the University of Gdańsk. For projects implemented in 2024, the main prize in this category went to a team consisting of: Paweł Mazierski, PhD, Anna Gołąbiewska, PhD, Beata Bajorowicz, PhD, and Anna Malankowska, PhD .

 

The award was granted for research and development work in the field of modern photocatalytic technologies for air and water purification, allowing for the optimization of processes while reducing energy consumption. The effectiveness of the developed solutions has been tested to remove various air pollutants, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs), nitrogen oxides, sulphur oxides, and microorganisms such as bacteria (Pseudomonas aeruginosa) and bacteriophages (SARS-CoV-2-like structures)

 

In this category, the jury also decided to award a distinction, which went to the team consisting of: Dr. n. Med. Ulana Juhas, Ph.D. Med. Andżelika Borkowska, Joanna Reczkowicz, MSc, Zuzanna Margas, MSc. The award was granted for the INFLASCOPE intelligent inflammatory analysis and prediction system operating in the SaaS model, using routine blood tests for automatic analysis and prediction of inflammation, where the use of AI and machine learning algorithms is crucial. This model contributes to detecting inflammatory trends and predicting the risk of chronic diseases such as atherosclerosis, chronic heart failure and cancer.

 

 

– Olivia Prize is growing in strength every year, which is of great importance for us organizers – says Bogusław Wieczorek, representative of the management board of Olivia Centre. From the project, which initially had the dimension of supporting the promotion of enterprises operating in Olivia, it grows to the rank of awards, covering the entire province and supporting numerous, very socially beneficial projects. We are glad that our project is supported by such important partners as the Fahrenheit University Association or the UN Global Compact Network Poland, because thanks to this, the projects we award can gain even better promotion and support, especially when it comes to initiatives supporting business development, ecological, charitable and scientific projects.

 

The author of the awards in the Olivia Prize 2024 competition is Magda Beneda. The greatest passion of the graduate of the Academy of Fine Arts in Gdańsk is painting, but the Gdańsk-based artist is also involved in graphic design and applied arts. He has 15 art exhibitions throughout Europe. Her works can be found in many private collections in Poland, Norway, Germany, France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Great Britain and the USA.

 

 

 

Opening of the exhibition “Fresh Blood” in Olivia Star

Posted on by Katarzyna Halicka

Until 15 May, you can admire the works of young artists from the Academy of Fine Arts in Gdańsk at Olivia Star. The “Fresh Blood” exhibition, under the aegis of Olivia Centre and the Gdańsk Community Foundation, was opened by a vernissage in the lobby of Olivia Star. Media patronage: Zawsze Pomorze, TVP Gdańsk and Radio Gdańsk.

 

The exhibition “Fresh Blood” presents a variety of topics oscillating around man and the world around him. Painting invites the viewer to become part of the painting, depicting scenes of markets and their tumult, as well as a meditative look relating to our memories. Sculpture, from classic ceramic to modern plaster forms, complements this exhibition.

 

The following artists will present their works: Filip Rzodkiewicz (curator), Victoria Więckowska, Julia Ledwoń, Jan Raczyński, Matylda Soja, Magdalena Drawska, Jan Kalman and Oliwia Eliza Bury.

 

We cordially invite you to discover young art in the spaces of Olivia Centre. Admission.

 

 

About the creators:

 

OLIWIA ELIZA BURY
The artist (b. 1998, Rzeszów) is a graduate of the Faculty of Sculpture and Intermedia at the Academy of Fine Arts in Gdańsk (diploma in the sculpture studio of Professor Wojciech Sęczawa). She participated in plein-airs in Vilnius and the Czech Republic. Her work is based on an intuitive pursuit of her roots, an attempt to find and show her own arche, her Source. Her works are inspired by the nature and culture of the Subcarpathian region.
https://bury-artstudio.pl

 

MAGDALENA DRAWSKA
The young artist (b. 2000, Tczew) studies at the Faculty of Painting of the Academy of Fine Arts in Gdańsk (fourth year) in the studio of Professor Krzysztof Polkowski. He paints, draws and photographs.
Instagram: @magda.lena.drawska

 

JAN KALMAN
(b. 2001, Gdańsk) studies at the Faculty of Painting of the Academy of Fine Arts in Gdańsk (fifth year) in the studio of Professor Maciej Świeszewski. It mainly focuses on floral motifs; He also creates ceramics and botanical illustrations.
Instagram: @jan.kal.art

 

JULIA LEDWOŃ
Julia Ledwoń (b. 2000, Lubliniec) is a sculptor. She graduated from the Institute of Art of the University of Silesia in Katowice in the field of Artistic Education and master’s studies at the Faculty of Ceramics and Glass of the Academy of Fine Arts in Wrocław. She expanded her workshop skills during an internship at the Ceramic Kingdom Studio in Berlin. He is currently studying at the Faculty of Sculpture of the Academy of Fine Arts in Gdańsk (first year).
Instagram: @Julialedwon

 

JAN RACZYŃSKI
Jan Raczyński (b. 1999, Kartuzy) studies at the Faculty of Sculpture and Intermedia (fifth year) in the diploma studio of prof. Ph.D. Wojciech Sęczawa and in the Workshop of Medallic Art and Small Forms prof. Ph.D. Ludmiła Ostrogórska. Sculptor, painter, draughtsman, musician and poet. Raczyński focuses on reflection on man and his relationship with the world.
Instagram: @jan.raczynski.art

 

FILIP RZODKIEWICZ (curator of the exhibition)
The young artist (born in 2000) studies at the Faculty of Painting of the Academy of Fine Arts in Gdańsk (fifth year) under the supervision of prof. Ph.D. Krzysztof Polkowski. Winner of the W. Fangor competition, winner of distinctions and artistic residencies at Laznia CCA in Gdańsk and finalist of the international competition “99 Future Blue Chip Artists”. He participated in artistic residencies in Latvia and South Korea. In addition to his own work, he organizes exhibitions of works by young artists as a curator of the “Northern Wall” Gallery. His works can be found in private collections in Poland, Canada and the USA.
Instagram: @Filip_Rzodkiewicz

 

MATYLDA SOJA
Visual artist, student of the Faculty of Painting at the Academy of Fine Arts in Gdańsk (fifth year). He paints, creates installations, works with the world. In her actions, she explores discomfort and looks for boundaries – not only her own.
Instagram: @thilde_sun

 

VICTORIA WIĘCKOWSKA
Victoria Więckowska (b. 1998, Toruń) graduated from the École Européenne in Luxembourg. She studied at the Faculty of Fashion Design at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Antwerp (Belgium). Currently, she is a student of the Faculty of Painting at the Academy of Fine Arts in Gdańsk (fifth year) in the diploma studio of prof. Ph.D. Maciej Świeszewski. Her paintings can be found in private collections in Poland and abroad. Victoria Więckowska lives and works in Sopot.
Instagram: @Art_e.vic

 

 

Olivia Art. Exhibition of paintings and sculptures by students of the Academy of Fine Arts in Gdańsk

Posted on by Katarzyna Halicka

The Olivia ART project, initiated many years ago by a series of chamber concerts Olivia Camerata, has become a platform for the presentation of the work of artists from Pomerania. As part of it, in the lobby of the Olivia Star building, there is a public mini-gallery, where you can admire the works of painters, sculptors and photographers associated with the region, including employees of companies located in Olivia Centre.

 

In 2024 alone, this space hosted m.in an exhibition of photographs by Piotr Biegaj from Lyreco entitled “Birds” and photographs by Krzysztof Dygas from Nordea Bank – the series “City: Sketches with Light”. The year ended with an exhibition of works by the Olivia Photography Club entitled “Kaleidoscope: Images, Sounds, Emotions, Impressions”, documenting the Inside Seaside 2024 festival.

 

From 12 March, in Olivia Star, you can admire the works of young artists from the Academy of Fine Arts in Gdańsk. We cordially invite you, together with the Gdańsk Community Foundation, to the opening of the exhibition entitled “Fresh Blood”, which will take place on March 17, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. in the lobby of the Olivia Star building. The exhibition itself will be presented until 15 May.

 

The exhibition “Fresh Blood” presents a variety of topics oscillating around man and the world around him. Painting invites the viewer to become part of the painting, depicting scenes of markets and their tumult, as well as a meditative look relating to our memories. Sculpture, from classic ceramic to modern plaster forms, complements this exhibition.

 

The following artists will present their works: Filip Rzodkiewicz (curator), Victoria Więckowska, Julia Ledwoń, Jan Raczyński, Matylda Soja, Magdalena Drawska, Jan Kalman and Oliwia Eliza Bury.

 

We cordially invite you to participate in this event and discover young, local art in the spaces of Olivia Centre.

 

About the creators:

 

OLIWIA ELIZA BURY
The artist (b. 1998, Rzeszów) is a graduate of the Faculty of Sculpture and Intermedia at the Academy of Fine Arts in Gdańsk (diploma in the sculpture studio of Professor Wojciech Sęczawa). She participated in plein-airs in Vilnius and the Czech Republic. Her work is based on an intuitive pursuit of her roots, an attempt to find and show her own arche, her Source. Her works are inspired by the nature and culture of the Subcarpathian region.
https://bury-artstudio.pl

 

MAGDALENA DRAWSKA
The young artist (b. 2000, Tczew) studies at the Faculty of Painting of the Academy of Fine Arts in Gdańsk (fourth year) in the studio of Professor Krzysztof Polkowski. He paints, draws and photographs.
Instagram: @magda.lena.drawska

 

JAN KALMAN
(b. 2001, Gdańsk) studies at the Faculty of Painting of the Academy of Fine Arts in Gdańsk (fifth year) in the studio of Professor Maciej Świeszewski. It mainly focuses on floral motifs; He also creates ceramics and botanical illustrations.
Instagram: @jan.kal.art

 

JULIA LEDWOŃ
Julia Ledwoń (b. 2000, Lubliniec) is a sculptor. She graduated from the Institute of Art of the University of Silesia in Katowice in the field of Artistic Education and master’s studies at the Faculty of Ceramics and Glass of the Academy of Fine Arts in Wrocław. She expanded her workshop skills during an internship at the Ceramic Kingdom Studio in Berlin. He is currently studying at the Faculty of Sculpture of the Academy of Fine Arts in Gdańsk (first year).
Instagram: @Julialedwon

 

JAN RACZYŃSKI
Jan Raczyński (b. 1999, Kartuzy) studies at the Faculty of Sculpture and Intermedia (fifth year) in the diploma studio of prof. Ph.D. Wojciech Sęczawa and in the Workshop of Medallic Art and Small Forms prof. Ph.D. Ludmiła Ostrogórska. Sculptor, painter, draughtsman, musician and poet. Raczyński focuses on reflection on man and his relationship with the world.
Instagram: @jan.raczynski.art

 

FILIP RZODKIEWICZ (curator of the exhibition)
The young artist (born in 2000) studies at the Faculty of Painting of the Academy of Fine Arts in Gdańsk (fifth year) under the supervision of prof. Ph.D. Krzysztof Polkowski. Winner of the W. Fangor competition, winner of distinctions and artistic residencies at Laznia CCA in Gdańsk and finalist of the international competition “99 Future Blue Chip Artists”. He participated in artistic residencies in Latvia and South Korea. In addition to his own work, he organizes exhibitions of works by young artists as a curator of the “Northern Wall” Gallery. His works can be found in private collections in Poland, Canada and the USA.
Instagram: @Filip_Rzodkiewicz

 

MATYLDA SOJA
Visual artist, student of the Faculty of Painting at the Academy of Fine Arts in Gdańsk (fifth year). He paints, creates installations, works with the world. In her actions, she explores discomfort and looks for boundaries – not only her own.
Instagram: @thilde.son

 

VICTORIA WIĘCKOWSKA
Victoria Więckowska (b. 1998, Toruń) graduated from the École Européenne in Luxembourg. She studied at the Faculty of Fashion Design at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Antwerp (Belgium). Currently, she is a student of the Faculty of Painting at the Academy of Fine Arts in Gdańsk (fifth year) in the diploma studio of prof. Ph.D. Maciej Świeszewski. Her paintings can be found in private collections in Poland and abroad. Victoria Więckowska lives and works in Sopot.
Instagram: @Art_e.vic

 

In Olivia about the most important matters. Summit talks

Posted on by Katarzyna Halicka

On Thursday, 6 March, on the 34th floor of Olivia Star, a unique debate was held entitled “Summit talks: how to ensure security? Global threats and local responses”. The event, organized by the Employers of Pomerania, gathered leading experts in the field of politics, defense and international security in Olivia Centre. The Guest of Honour of the meeting was the renowned statesman and historian Bronisław Komorowski, President of the Republic of Poland in the years 2010-2015.

 

President Bronisław Komorowski, when asked about Polish security, pointed out that the situation is very difficult. He also referred to recent events.

 

– One thing is certain, that what is happening strengthens Putin’s Russia. Why this is happening is another discussion. But no one can doubt that Russia has received very powerful arguments and has a chance for political and military success. If Russia has a chance of success, then we have good reasons to be afraid of almost everything. But fortunately, it is never the case in the world that there are only negative phenomena that cause terror and fear for the future. -Spoke.

 

Are we safe?

 

This fundamental question accompanied the participants throughout the debate, and the answers were not unambiguous. The speakers emphasized that the world is currently facing many challenges, both geopolitical and technological. The discussion focused primarily on the analysis of global tensions, including threats resulting from Russia’s policy and dynamic changes in international relations.

 

Anna Maria Dyner vividly described the current situation as “hurricane Trump and cyclone Putin”, noting that both the changes in the US and Russia’s aggressive attitude have a huge impact on Europe’s security.

 

“Now is the moment when tectonic plates in the Euro-Atlantic world are shifting. I am ironic that hurricane Trump is blowing. The question is, what will happen when it stops blowing and what image of the world will we find? Perhaps not necessarily the worst if Europe is able to consolidate. It is a matter of answering the question – how to find ourselves in this new reality and how to try to talk to our European partners – translated by Anna Maria Dyner.

 

The participants agreed that Poland is not facing a direct threat of conventional war “here and now” today, but that hybrid activities and disinformation remain huge challenges. They also pointed out that the current geopolitical crisis has been going on for almost 17 years and although the threat is undoubtedly growing, they emphasized that Europe is beginning to respond to it with increasing determination and decisiveness.

 

General Bogusław Pacek, who believes that Poland is as safe as Europe, said m.in: There is a lot of concern, but there is no reason to panic. Those who are causing us to panic are also acting for Putin, not for our authorities. Sometimes I wonder who cares more about us panicking. Are they those who want to attack us in the future, or those who want to sell us more what costs more.

 

Key findings

 

No reason to panic. At the moment, Poland is not really threatened by a “tank invasion”, but it is crucial to remain constantly vigilant, m.in. against disinformation activities and cyber threats.

 

A strong arms industry is the foundation of security. Investments in the defence sector are necessary and, as it was noted, Poland took these actions much earlier than other European countries.

 

Propaganda and information warfare. Today’s threats are not limited to traditional military attacks, but also include information manipulation and destabilization in cyberspace.

 

Experts

 

Outstanding specialists and representatives of the defence industry were invited to participate in the debate. It was attended by:

 

  • Anna Maria Dyner – Polityka Insight, Senior Security and Eastern Affairs Analyst,
  • Honorata Hencel – Managing Director of Boeing Poland and Ukraine,
  • General Bogusław Pacek – expert in the field of defence strategy,
  • Piotr Wojciechowski – President of WB Electronics,
  • Jan J. Grabowski – Member of the Management Board of the Polish Armaments Group,
  • Jarosław Wolski – analyst and lecturer at the Naval Academy in Gdynia.

 

The meeting was chaired by Witold Jurasz, a journalist and columnist for Onet dealing with foreign and security policy, in the past a diplomat in Moscow and chargé d’affaires of the Republic of Poland in Belarus. He also worked in the arms industry.

 

The event attracted over 300 participants, which proves the great interest in the subject of security. The meeting lasted over 2.5 hours and was full of substantive discussions and specific recommendations on the future of Polish defence policy.

 

The debate “Talks at the 2025 Summit” was a unique opportunity to exchange views on current threats and strategies to combat them. Experts emphasized that Poland is heading in the right direction to strengthen its security, but it still faces many challenges. Further investment in the arms industry, cybersecurity and effective counteracting disinformation will be crucial.

 

Huge applause is due to the organizers, the Employers of Pomerania and Tomasz Limon for creating a space for such an important discussion. In the face of global tensions, events of this type are extremely important for building awareness and preparing for future challenges.

 

Fig. linkedin.com/company/pracodawcy-pomorza/ | trojmiasto.pl Maciej Czerniak

 

 

Partners of the debate:

 

Main Partner: Bank Millennium
Substantive Partner: Polish Naval Academy in Gdynia
Venue Partner: Olivia Centre
Partners: Polska Grupa Zbrojeniowa S.A., RADMOR S.A., WB Group, GPEC Group

 

More…

Join Active Charity 2025!

Posted on by Katarzyna Halicka

 

Did you know that our Resident, the Energa Group, has been organising the Active Charities campaign since 2014? And everyone can join it! The participants of the 11th edition covered over 515 thousand kilometers, which means that they traveled around Poland 150 times! 716 people, including 347 women and 369 men, contributed to this spectacular result. The employees of Energa Obrót covered the most kilometers – 120,563. Almost 80 thousand. As part of the campaign, we have so far managed to cover over 4 million km and donate aid worth PLN 2,580,000.00 to 134 facilities.

 

How can you get involved?

 

Just walk, run, ride your bike, scooter, rollerblades… Your activity Monitor via any app of your choice, e.g. Strava. Inform the Energa Group about this every month, and each kilometre you travel will be added to the common kilometre pool. You have plenty of time, because the campaign lasts until December 31.

 

We have 250,000 km to go. If we manage to exceed the assumed mileage limit, the Energa Foundation will donate funds to children in need, seniors and animal shelters.

 

Every active charity who goes out, leaves, runs 100 km and donates them to the common pool will be able to recommend the Beneficiary to the Organizers. If you have any questions, write to: rowery@energa.pl

 

How do I register for
Active Charities
?

 

That’s how:

 

We invite you to the Olivia Prize 2024 award ceremony and a lecture by Jacek Sokołowski, PhD

Posted on by Katarzyna Halicka

We cordially invite you to the award ceremony in the Olivia Prize 2024 competition! For the fifth time, we will meet to appreciate the most interesting business, social and economic undertakings of the Residents of Olivia Centre. We will also present special awards to business environment institutions and young scientists associated with Tri-City universities. Registration is required for the event.

 

The partners of the individual award categories are the United Nations Global Compact Network Poland and the Daniel Fahrenheit Union of Universities in Gdańsk.

 

The special guest of the event will be Dr. Jacek Sokołowski, lecturer at the Institute of Political Science and International Relations of the Jagiellonian University, legal advisor, expert on political issues, co-founder and in the years 2012–2022 head of the Center for Quantitative Research on Politics of the Jagiellonian University, collaborator of the Jagiellonian Club and the Allerhand Institute, he also publishes in “Dziennik Gazeta Prawna”. Author of the book “Transnaród” which is an analysis of the evolution of the political system in Poland, with particular emphasis on the formation of a new middle class, popular political commentator publishing on the X website as EasyRider.

 

The award ceremony will take place on March 27, 2025 on the 34th floor of Olivia Star.

 

Agenda of the meeting

  • 18:00 Opening
  • 18:00-18:15 Welcome
  • 18:15-19:15 Lecture by Dr. Jacek Sokołowski
  • 19:10-20:00 Olivia Prize Awards Ceremony
  • 20:00-21:00 Closing / cocktail

 

Sign Up

 

 

This year, the prizes in the Olivia Prize competition will be awarded in three categories:

  • Olivia Impact – for economic or business undertakings carried out by the Resident’s company or entities from its group.
  • Olivia Harmony – for social or ecological projects carried out by the Resident’s company or entities from its group. This category is under the honorary patronage of the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC).
  • Olivia Everyday Hero – for an individual, employee or associate of a Resident, for social or ecological involvement.

 

There will also be two special prizes:

  • Olivia Connect – for business environment institutions influencing the Resident or entities from his group.
  • Olivia Hero of the Future – for a young scientist associated with a Tri-City university, who can demonstrate success in the field of R+D or commercialization of research results. This category was under the patronage of the Fahrenheit Union of Universities.

 

The Olivia Prize 2024 jury will consist of:

  • Moksa Marta (O4 Coworking),
  • Sylwia Mrozowska (Univentum Labs),
  • Jolanta Szydłowska (GFKM),
  • Grzegorz Borowski (Infoshare),
  • Paweł Jemioł (Nordea),
  • Mateusz Kusznierewicz,
  • Remigiusz Wojciechowski (Bayer).

 

The contest is exactly for you! Do you have doubts?
Check out the results of previous editions: 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023.

 

 

You have until March 16 to apply. Click and apply for the competition!
The official announcement of the results will take place on March 27 during a ceremonial gala.

 

 

Competition form