EC1 Łódź – City of Culture Complex
Poland
EC1 in Łódź, Poland, is a former power plant complex that has become one of the city’s main cultural and educational landmarks. Originally established in 1907 as Łódź’s first power station, the site played a key role in the industrial development of the city during the 20th century. Its architecture combines industrial and Art Nouveau elements, with preserved machinery and technical infrastructure reflecting its historic function.
Today, EC1 functions as a multidisciplinary centre dedicated to science, technology, film, and culture. The complex includes the Centre for Science and Technology, a Planetarium, the Centre for Comics and Interactive Narratives, and the National Centre for Film Culture, alongside cinemas, exhibition spaces, and educational facilities for children and schools.
The site also serves as a public gathering space, hosting exhibitions, festivals, workshops, and community events throughout the year. Green public areas and spaces for creative industries and non-profit organisations contribute to its role as a dynamic urban hub.
As part of the European Route of Industrial Heritage, EC1 represents an important example of how industrial architecture can remain active and relevant within contemporary city life. In recognition of its outstanding adaptive reuse and cultural impact, EC1 received the European Heritage Awards / Europa Nostra Awards 2024, including the Grand Prix.