ŻORRO by Frantagroup Architects: A Bold Vision for Affordable Living in Żory

ŻORRO, completed in 2023 by Frantagroup Architects, is a standout example of how thoughtful design can revolutionize the concept of affordable housing. Located in Żory, Poland, this 5,720 m² residential development introduces a new architectural typology that emphasizes livability, sustainability, and community impact—all while maintaining low construction costs.

Conceived as a reinterpretation of the outdated prefabricated housing blocks that surround it, ŻORRO brings a bold new language to the urban fabric—like a superhero poised to transform its district with enhanced quality, aesthetics, and function.

Transformative Design with Spacious Outdoor Living

Central to ŻORRO’s identity are its expansive terraces—innovatively conceived as “summer living rooms” and “summer gardens” that extend each apartment’s usable area by 30–50%. These outdoor zones offer generous space, sunlight, and fresh air, replacing the standard balcony with something far more functional and comfortable.

By eliminating costly, unnecessary interior finishes, the architects were able to direct the budget toward these livable outdoor extensions, demonstrating that resource-conscious design can still deliver outstanding lifestyle benefits.

Smart Façade Design: Sustainability Meets Simplicity

ŻORRO’s striking black façade is more than just a visual identity—it’s an active component in the building’s passive solar strategy. The façade and overhangs were designed with precise proportions to respond to seasonal sunlight:

  • In summer, the façade remains mostly shaded during peak hours, keeping interiors cool.

  • In winter, the lower sun angle allows the dark surfaces to absorb and radiate heat, enhancing thermal comfort for terrace users throughout the day.

This passive heating and cooling system reduces energy demand while increasing resident comfort—making ŻORRO a climate-responsive and environmentally efficient design.

Elegant Design Within Budget

With 51 apartments priced between 6,800–7,500 PLN/m² (€1,600–€1,760), ŻORRO positions itself as a model of affordable excellence. The project challenges the assumption that high-quality housing is reserved only for major cities or affluent buyers.

Instead, it serves as proof that innovative architecture can uplift everyday life even in smaller, less celebrated locales—without reliance on public funding.

A Visionary Model for Urban Renewal

Frantagroup Architects’ ŻORRO is more than a housing project; it’s a manifesto for accessible design and urban revitalization. It encourages future developments to prioritize human-centered spaces, environmental performance, and architectural distinction, regardless of budget constraints.

Dark facade of Zorro building at dusk with one apartment warmly lit.
Photography © Frantagroup Architects
Architectural detail of the upper corner frame of the Zorro building.
Photography © Frantagroup Architects
Series of clean, geometric balconies defining the structure’s facade.
Photography © Frantagroup Architects
Full perspective of the Zorro building surrounded by open land.
Photography © Frantagroup Architects
Zorro building nestled among trees during early morning light.
Photography © Frantagroup Architects
Warm evening tones highlighting the repetition of balconies.
Photography © Frantagroup Architects
View of the Zorro building from a nearby parking lot.
Photography © Frantagroup Architects
Zorro building standing out in its urban context among postwar apartment blocks.
Photography © Frantagroup Architects
Wide urban perspective showing the Zorro building’s unique design.
Photography © Frantagroup Architects
Modern black residential building with angular steel frames against a muted urban backdrop.
Photography © Frantagroup Architects
Side elevation of Zorro apartment showing geometric steel structure and urban integration.
Photography © Frantagroup Architects
Zorro residential complex side profile with exposed framework and backdrop of city blocks.
Photography © Frantagroup Architects
Detailed view of repetitive balcony design on the Zorro building, emphasizing vertical and horizontal rhythm.
Photography © Frantagroup Architects
Urban living at Zorro, featuring a clean balcony layout and dark exterior facade.
Photography © Frantagroup Architects
Resident enjoying a moment on the balcony of the modern black Zorro apartment building.
Photography © Frantagroup Architects
Evening sunlight casting warm hues on the black Zorro apartment facade.
Photography © Frantagroup Architects
Zorro building viewed from across a green field at golden hour, showcasing its bold silhouette.
Photography © Frantagroup Architects
Wide shot of Zorro architecture during sunset, surrounded by neighboring buildings and nature.
Photography © Frantagroup Architects
Angled view of Zorro building’s steel balconies during a golden sunset.
Photography © Frantagroup Architects
Zorro residential building glowing in the sunset with warm reflections on glass windows.
Photography © Frantagroup Architects
Black modern facade of Zorro building with vertical green wall and minimal windows.
Photography © Frantagroup Architects
Dark Zorro building with modern design contrasting brightly colored surrounding architecture.
Photography © Frantagroup Architects
Zorro apartment rooftop balcony silhouetted against a twilight sky and rising moon.
Photography © Frantagroup Architects
Zorro building geometric steel structure captured at dusk with warm sky tones.
Photography © Frantagroup Architects
Night view of Zorro apartment with scattered warm glowing windows in a dark silhouette.
Photography © Frantagroup Architects
Minimalist angular frame of Zorro building silhouetted against a clear blue hour sky.
Photography © Frantagroup Architects

Posted by Franta Group Architects

Franta Group is a Polish architectural studio founded in 2010 by Maciej Franta, headquartered in Katowice. The firm specializes in designing residential, public utility, and commercial-service buildings, with a focus on integrating contemporary aesthetics into existing urban and natural contexts.​ About Maciej Franta Maciej Franta, born in 1983 in Chorzów, Poland, is a graduate of the Faculty of Architecture at the Cracow University of Technology. He also studied at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville. Before establishing Franta Group, he gained experience at Gensler in New York and in Dublin. In 2022, he was recognized as one of Europe's "40 Under 40" most promising architects. ​ Design Philosophy Franta Group's design approach emphasizes:​ Contextual sensitivity: integrating new structures harmoniously with their surroundings.​ Sustainability: incorporating eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient solutions.​ Innovative forms: reimagining traditional architectural elements to create unique designs.​ Office Environment The studio's office in Katowice reflects its design ethos, featuring a minimalist interior with functional zones that promote collaboration and creativity. The space includes a central "black box" housing ancillary functions, surrounded by open areas for work and meetings. ​