The development of the city-forming WITA project in Kraków, led by Echo Investment and Archicom, is gaining momentum. Advanced works are underway across all parts of this multifunctional complex – residential, office-service, and land development.
WITA is being built in the historic center of the city (approximately 1.4 km from the Main Market Square), on Wita Stwosza Street. On the site of former supply warehouses of the Kraków Fortress, five four-story buildings are under construction. These will complement each other, forming an open space that combines residential, office, retail, dining, and recreational functions.
“WITA is an ambitious undertaking with a broad scope – from developing a cohesive concept, through cooperation with the regional heritage conservator and city administration, to organizing construction and implementing sustainable development solutions. We want users to be able to access all parts of the project around the same time, so we’re carrying out work simultaneously in each area, tailored to the specific nature of the individual buildings,” says Rafał Mazurczak, Management Board Member at Echo Investment.
Construction of the residential section, which includes two buildings, is nearing the completion of the structural shell. Work is currently ongoing on partition walls, internal installations, insulation, and the installation of window joinery.
Ultimately, the two apartment buildings will house 176 units (ranging from 28 to 92 sqm), each with additional private outdoor space in the form of balconies, terraces, or gardens. The apartments will feature smart home systems, including the BlueBolt app for touchless gate, door, and elevator access. The buildings will also include utility rooms, bicycle storage, repair stations, and an outdoor playground for children.
“Our priority is to combine functionality with a high standard of finish and the comfort of future residents. The well-thought-out spatial organization will ensure privacy and tranquility while offering easy access to services, dining options, and activities organized in WITA’s shared spaces,” says Dawid Wrona, Management Board Member at Archicom S.A.
In the office-service section of the development, floor slabs above the ground floor and the first floor are currently being constructed. By placing installation machinery in the underground levels, the rooftops will remain free of equipment and acoustic barriers, enhancing both the aesthetics and functionality of the space. To minimise disruption to road infrastructure and protect pedestrian zones, the office buildings will be connected by a shared underground garage with a single entrance.
Preparations are also underway for further stages, including internal installation work and masonry. Construction is proceeding by BREEAM certification standards at the Outstanding level, affirming the project’s high sustainability standards. The office buildings will be partially powered by renewable green energy and will feature energy-efficient solutions such as rainwater harvesting systems, EV charging stations, and intelligent ventilation, air conditioning, lighting, and building management systems (BMS). Ground floors will house service and dining units facing the main pedestrian avenue.
The creators of WITA place particular emphasis on shared spaces and respecting the surrounding environment. The entire project spans 3 hectares, with around 7,000 sqm dedicated to native greenery – so-called “fortress vegetation” – and about 150 newly planted trees. The central axis of the WITA space will be a wide pedestrian boulevard, lined with trees and rest areas.
WITA is the first project in Kraków to adopt the destination format created by Echo Investment and Archicom, inspired by the idea of a 15-minute city. The developers are bringing to the Kraków real estate market the standards and quality already established in other urban projects by the Group, such as Fuzja in Łódź and Towarowa 22 in Warsaw. These projects have received international recognition (both were nominated for the prestigious MIPIM Awards, and Fuzja won in two categories: Best Urban Regeneration Project and Special Jury Award).
Echo Investment is responsible for the commercial section of the WITA complex, while Archicom is in charge of the residential component. The architectural design was prepared by the Kraków-based MOFO Architekci studio. The project is scheduled for completion at the turn of 2025 and 2026.
