Student Dormitory "Pancernik" in Wrocław

The "Pancernik" Student Dormitory is a modernist multi-family residential building in Wrocław, located at 2b Tramwajowa Street. It was designed by architect Adolf Rading in 1929 as part of an experimental housing estate for the "Wohnung und Werkraum" (Dwelling and Workplace) exhibition. Despite its innovative approach to living space, the building was criticized for numerous shortcomings, such as the impractical layout of the apartments and inadequate natural lighting. Critics also referred to the idea of a resident community as utopian. Originally planned as a high-rise, the building ultimately did not exceed three floors due to construction limitations and a lack of funds, though it would have been one of the tallest residential buildings in Europe. The apartments designed by Rading were intended to offer flexible space that could be adapted to the tenants' needs—a novelty at the time. After World War II, the building was repurposed as a dormitory for the University of Wrocław, serving this role until 2012, when it was decommissioned. Throughout its history, the building underwent numerous changes and renovations, including one in the early 21st century that modernized its exterior. It is worth noting that many artists lived in the pre-war "Pancernik," contributing to its cultural significance and place in Wrocław's architectural history. In 2014, the University of Wrocław decided to sell the building, which remains unused.