In this article, the issue of constructing slabs from unified small elements, which are connected together into a stable structure by topological interlocking, is considered. The state-of-the-art methods in this topic are presented, as well as the results of the author’s original research. The author has expanded the well-known concept of shaping square slabs from square prefabs by the aggregation of triangular and hexagonal slabs from prefabs in the shape of equilateral triangles, regular hexagons, and rhombuses. Each of the slabs can be modelled with upper and bottom surfaces, either both relief, both smooth, or one relief and the other smooth. The slabs can be modelled in different ways, and each one results in intriguing floor and ceiling patterns. All of the slabs can co-operate with grillages made of steel beams, which can be constructed before filling with the prefabricated slab, which is a novel idea. Reversing the assembly order, as compared to that used in the literature, is made possible thanks to division of these elements into parts, to form a keystone which is inserted into the slab as a final step.

This article deals with the problem of multi-family housing implemented in the 1950s in Poland. Buildings from this period are located in the central districts of cities, and are well-connected and equipped with service infrastructure, but due to the small size of these flats, their low standard and poor technical condition, they are not sufficiently attractive for middle-class people and developing families. The consequence of this is the social selection of residents and the disappearance of neighborly relations. In this article, the authors present a balance sheet of the shortcomings and advantages of these buildings, and against the background of contemporary requirements for housing, resulting from the theory of sustainable development, they indicate possible directions for modernization. Detailed solutions are presented for a specific housing complex located in Rzeszów. The development of flat roofs and the introduction of functions integrating the community of residents are the significant elements of the project. Due to the fact that the functional layouts of stories, the structure of buildings, and to a large extent the spatial arrangement of residential complexes were unified in the 1950s throughout the whole country, the presented concept may serve as inspiration for similar projects undertaken in any other city in Poland.

This research addresses an urban problem that has emerged as a result of the increased number of trains on railway line located in a city center. The essence of this problem is the difficulty of crossing individual and public transport lines, on foot and by bicycle, due to the small number of crossings and passages, most of which are single-level. The authors consider the positive aspect of the emergence of a barrier to road transport and aim to solve the problem by ensuring access to the city center for people, not cars. The proposed solution includes a pedestrian and bicycle tunnel and two bus stops located near the tunnel entrances. The tunnel and bus stops are located within the former railway station. This once vibrant area would be revitalized through the creation of a multimodal transfer hub. The research included analysis of traffic study results, observation of a key railway crossing, an urban and functional analysis of the area, and an assessment of the architectural heritage within the former railway station. The design part formulated guidelines for the modernization of the road system, which is necessary to introduce city bus traffic and ensure their priority.

This article covers the subject of illusory exposure of non-existent architectural objects in their original location. The authors believe that this specific conservation method is a way to disseminate knowledge about the past architectural landscape and thus to increase the identity of cities and their inhabitants. The concept refers to augmented reality, but the authors use only analog optical means to visualize the virtual component. The visualization consists of projecting the object onto the walls of buildings and the ground. In order to preserve their intact condition, light projection is used. The image creates the illusion of three-dimensionality if it is perceived from the center of the projection. After a preliminary analysis of the available means of light expression, this article presents the results of this research. In the first stage, a simple geometric model was visualized using various techniques in order to evaluate them and select the optimal one. In the second stage, a virtual visualization of a specific architectural object was created. Its form and location were established based on the analysis of historical iconographic material and reports from archaeological works. The influence of local conditions on the practical possibilities of light projection was taken into account.

The article concerns the illusory presentation of non-existent architectural objects directly in the place of their original location. This specific conservation method is considered as a tool for disseminating knowledge about the original architectural landscape of places where it has undergone transformations. The authors believe that its implementation may contribute to the growth of the identity of cities and their inhabitants. The concept refers to augmented reality, but the authors use only optical means to create a virtual component, The article presents the results of theoretical analysis and practical experiments, pointing to the advantages and disadvantages of the method.