The second round of the Academic Citizens' Budget is behind us. Among the winning projects of the previous editions, some serve the purpose of rest, quiet and peaceful work in the faculties. We checked how they functioned and asked students what they thought of them.

CHILLOUT ZONE

A student project called 'CHILLOUT ZONE at WNS' was realised in 2022 thanks to winning the University of Gdańsk's Academic Citizens' Budget. It received 1,050 votes.

The 'CHILLOUT ZONE na WNS' space was designed to provide a place for comfortable relaxation with the staff and students of the Faculty of Social Sciences in mind. The zone is located in the WNS building on level 300 in the west niche.

As part of the completed design vision, various additions have been made so that those using the space can experience a moment of relaxation between classes. These include rocking and regular armchairs, tables or desks, all complemented by soft cushions. Functional stairs with sockets are also available. Everything creates a pleasing aesthetic in a nook of one wing of the Faculty of Social Sciences.

The place, even in the afternoon, is very popular, while also showing that modern solutions contribute to creating a safe, comfortable area conducive to studying, relaxing, working or simple everyday conversations between students.

ZERO STRESS

Another winning and implemented project within the ACB of the University of Gdańsk is the ZERO STRESS zone at the Faculty of Law and Administration. According to the design presented by the student submitting the initiative, a new arrangement of the 'winter garden' space was created. The modern, cosy space, designed to increase university integration and meetings, allows not only for work but also for a moment's rest. The project received 1,081 votes.

The revitalisation of the green plant area, together with the construction of new modular furniture in addition to a place for reading books and studying, creates the conditions for official or casual meetings. The design of this sector also visually enhances the space, improves the acoustics and lighting, and thus the well-being of people in the ZERO STRESS zone.

Probe

We asked the students who use them about the two Academic Citizens' Budget developments.

Natalia and Weronika are studying at the Faculty of Social Sciences and told us how they felt about the chill zone:

‘We spend a lot of our free time between classes in this zone, we like the quiet. We have a place where we can quietly prepare for classes or exams. There's a large space here, so we can accommodate a lot of people, and I encourage anyone who hasn't been here yet to visit this zone at least once because it really is a unique place in our department.’

‘Yes, this zone is what we have been missing in the department. We can come here with friends and sit quietly and chat. It's a very cosy place at the university and I'm happy to be here.’

Krzysiek, on the other hand, praises the ZERO STRESS zone at WPiA:

‘The ZERO STRESS zone at our faculty is truly a magical place! Since it was realised, it has become my favourite space to relax and work. It's a cosy place where I can not only study or do something for work, but also socialise with other students - and I enjoy meeting new people. I'm glad that this zone has finally come into being and I'm curious to see how it will develop further.’