18. European Copper in Architecture Award

The Public Choice Winner of "Copper in Architecture Awards" competition, with by far the most votes cast on copperconcept.org, was a new copper entrance pavilion hosting an innovative ‘water printer’ sculpture. It celebrates the regeneration of the remarkable 19th century reservoir in Wrocław, converted into ‘HYDROPOLIS’ – the only knowledge centre in Poland devoted entirely to water. The copper to the side is punched with holes to mimic computer punch cards in keeping with the water printer theme.

The HYDROPOLIS Environmental Education Center is a unique place, combining education with modern forms of exhibition. The main subject of the exhibition is water – a substance that is everywhere on our planet.

Visitors actively take part in the story of the origins of water in the universe, encounter the incredible creatures from the depths of the ocean, and take to the surface to understand its imperative function in the environment and its role in human vital functions. They also learn the history of water engineering, from Antiquity to present-day methods of water management.

HYDROPOLIS is a place where diverse multimedia technologies, art installations, replicas and real-life models serve a common goal: to show water from varied and fascinating perspectives.