Planet Berlin: Polish style
Maciek Tyszecki and Piotrek Ksiazek came to Berlin from Poland and have established a hub for high-design jewelry, fashion and interior wares from their homeland.
Spreading the word
Poles in Germany are still fighting clichés and bad jokes. Though only about 100 kilometers from the German capital, many Berliners have no idea what's happening in the nearby nation, even three decades after the fall of the Wall. Maciek Tyszecki (l.) and Piotrek Ksiazek have started to change that by creating a platform for the best Polish designer and fashion wares.
High design
White walls invite visitors in the minimalist Quadrat store where the latest fashion from Poland is clearly in view on metal clothes racks. No embroidered folk costumes here; instead contemporary, high-design fashion that can compete with the major international clothing brands. The pieces are not only designed in Poland but are also produced there.
The art of the accessory
The store's range does not only include fashion but actually started out with accessories, as well. It all began with Anna Orska. Although her work is more art than accessory, pieces by the well-known Polish jewelry designer, who has been featured in "Vogue" magazine, were not available in Berlin — until Quadrat opened.
Polish pride
The Quadrat store is located in the heart of the city, not far from Hackescher Markt in Berlin-Mitte. It stands among many small independent fashion boutiques and interior design stores. The inscription on the glass façade confidently advertises that its goods are sourced from "Polish Designers."