Jedynak, Department store in Bydgoszcz, Poland.
Jedynak is a five-story department store at the intersection of Gdańska and Dworcowa streets, featuring a glass-roofed atrium and modernist architectural elements. The building houses different retail categories across its floors, including clothing, accessories, and household items.
The building was commissioned by the Conitzer family in 1911 and designed by Berlin architect Otto Walter, opening initially as Kaufhaus Conitzer & Söhne. The structure introduced advanced construction techniques that transformed local building practices.
The main facade displays sculptures of ancient deities like Aphrodite and Athena, along with Greek amphorae and theatrical mask decorations. These ornaments reflect the taste of the early 1900s when classical references adorned major commercial buildings.
The building has several entry points and is designed for easy navigation between the different retail areas across its floors. Visitors should note that layouts and offerings vary on each level.
This was one of the first buildings in the region to use reinforced concrete techniques, a construction innovation that was uncommon at the time. This structural solution enabled the spacious interior spaces and the impressive glass-roofed atrium.
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