Architects: Szotynscy & Zaleski
Area: 4,000 m²
Year: 2004
Photographs:
City: Sopot
Country: Poland
Krzywy Domek- Crooked House, a commercial building designed by Szotynscy & Zaleski, is an architectural landmark located in Sopot, Poland. Completed in 2004, this surreal structure draws inspiration from the whimsical works of artists Jan Marcin Szancer and Per Dahlberg, defying traditional design with its curved and distorted appearance. Housing shops, restaurants, and offices, it serve as a functional and cultural hub. Its distinct aesthetic, with warped walls, a dragon-scale roof, and nighttime illumination, has made it one of Europe’s most unusual buildings, attracting thousands of tourists annually.
Krzywy Domek, commonly known as the “crooked house” or “drunk house,” is a striking architectural landmark situated in the heart of Sopot, Poland. Designed by architects Szotynscy & Zaleski, the building was completed in 2004 and has since become one of the city’s most recognizable and beloved structures. Drawing inspiration from the whimsical illustrations of Polish artist Jan Marcin Szancer and the artistic works of Per Dahlberg, Krzywy Domek defies conventional architectural norms with its surreal, almost cartoon-like design.
The building’s unusual facade features curved and irregular lines that appear to undulate as though reflected in a distorted mirror. These warped walls are one of its most distinctive elements, lending the structure a constantly shifting appearance depending on the angle from which it is viewed. Rather than relying on an optical illusion, Krzywy Domek’s design is the result of careful architectural planning, with solid foundations supporting its irregular, springy shape. The sandstone-framed windows and stone elevation decorations complement the overall aesthetic, creating a structure that seems to blur the boundaries between reality and fantasy.
The roof, a major focal point of the design, is concave and covered with blue-green enameled shingles. This gives the impression of a dragon’s scales, enhancing the fairy tale quality of the building. The use of curved stained glass throughout further accentuates its dreamlike character.
Spanning approximately 4,000 square meters, Krzywy Domek serves a variety of purposes. It is home to the Rezydent shopping center, which includes shops, restaurants, and bars, making it a central hub for commercial activity in Sopot. The building also houses office spaces for well-known businesses, adding a functional layer to its eccentric exterior. Outside the structure, visitors can find the Polish Walk of Fame, which pays tribute to notable figures in Polish entertainment and culture, further increasing its appeal as a tourist attraction.
Recognized as one of the strangest buildings in the world by the Village of Joy portal, Krzywy Domek is widely considered one of Europe’s most unusual architectural creations. Its bizarre yet enchanting design has made it a must-see destination for both locals and international tourists. When illuminated at night, Krzywy Domek’s whimsical shape is accentuated, drawing thousands of visitors eager to photograph its unique architectural lines. The house has become a defining feature of Sopot, earning a place as a symbol of the city’s artistic and architectural landscape.
Project Gallery
Project Location
Address: Bohaterów Monte Cassino 53, 81-767 Sopot, Poland
Location is for general reference and may represent a city or country, not necessarily a precise address.
