The Capital Park Group is embarking on a transformative project in Katowice with Nowy Wełnowiec, a 30-hectare revitalization of the former Silesia Metallurgical Plant site. With the local spatial development plan approved in September 2024, the project has moved into the realization phase, aiming to create a modern, multifunctional district that seamlessly integrates residential, cultural, and green spaces.
A new vision for urban living
Nowy Wełnowiec will feature approximately 300,000 square meters of usable space, primarily focused on residential buildings. These will be complemented by spaces for gastronomy, retail, entertainment, education, and cultural activities. A standout feature of the development is its emphasis on green spaces, with nearly one-third of the area—about 10 hectares—dedicated to open, landscaped areas. The centerpiece will be a 4-hectare central park, surrounded by meadows, plazas, and forested zones designed for recreation and relaxation.
Innovation in design and sustainability
The project introduces innovative urban planning solutions to enhance sustainability and quality of life. An underground road system will remove cars from public spaces, creating a pedestrian-friendly environment. Renewable energy sources, green roofs, and terraces will help reduce the urban heat island effect, while a state-of-the-art centralized system for waste management and rainwater retention will be the first of its kind in Poland. The green spaces will be carefully landscaped to promote biodiversity and adapt to local climate conditions. According to Tomasz Napieralski, architect and partner at JEMS Architekci, the vision for Nowy Wełnowiec goes beyond buildings, prioritizing community and green living.
Restoring heritage and building community
At the heart of the development lies the restoration of a historical compressor station from 1905, a key remnant of the site’s industrial past. This heritage building will be meticulously restored, with its original brick facades and architectural details revived. Once completed, it will serve as a symbol of Nowy Wełnowiec, housing an information center, a scale model of the project, and spaces for community events. Sylwia Filewicz, Director of Investment Implementation at Capital Park Group, highlights the building’s significance, describing it as a place where history meets modernity and a focal point for both residents and visitors.
Project timeline and community involvement
The first phase of the project, covering 7 hectares, will include residential buildings, restaurants, retail spaces, and a section of the central park. Construction is expected to begin in early 2026, with the compressor station renovation kicking off in the first quarter of 2025. Capital Park plans to engage the local community through consultations to ensure the project aligns with residents’ needs and aspirations.
Sustainability is at the core of Nowy Wełnowiec, with Capital Park collaborating with Investeko, a Silesian company specializing in land reclamation. Together, they will implement environmentally conscious practices to manage and reuse soil deposits on the site. The development also aims to address the challenges of climate change by incorporating solutions that reduce environmental impact while ensuring a high quality of life for future residents.
This project marks another successful collaboration between Capital Park Group and JEMS Architekci, following their work on Royal Wilanów in Warsaw. Like their previous ventures, Nowy Wełnowiec blends tradition with modernity, creating a multifunctional and multigenerational urban environment where architecture and nature coexist harmoniously.
With construction beginning in 2026, Nowy Wełnowiec is set to redefine urban living in Katowice, combining ecological innovation, historical preservation, and community-centered design. The project promises to become a landmark in Poland, setting new standards for sustainable and inclusive urban development.
