Dobudow

Dobudow is a term used in architectural and urban planning discourse to refer to the addition of a new volume to an existing building. In Polish, the related noun is dobudowa, from do- (toward, add) and budowa (construction). The form dobudow appears in some architectural texts as a shorthand for the practice, though it is less common in English-language sources where the concept is described as an extension or annex.

Applications and design considerations: A dobudow may provide additional living space, a new floor, or an infill element along a courtyard or street. Successful implementations require structural assessment to integrate new loads with the existing frame, careful alignment of massing and materials, and attention to daylight, proportion, and facade rhythm. The goal is to create a coherent addition that respects context while improving function.

Historical context: The practice is associated with postwar European housing renovation and urban retrofit programs, where expanding existing buildings was often more economical than demolition. It is also used in modern retrofit projects to improve energy performance or adapt buildings to new uses.

Regulation and safety: Extensions typically require permits and compliance with local building codes, including fire safety, insulation, and energy standards. Structural reinforcement and MEP integration are common technical tasks. In historic districts, design review may impose additional constraints on appearance and materials.

Reception and critique: Proponents argue that dobudowa enables adaptive reuse and preservation of urban fabric. Critics note potential adverse effects on historic character or street-scale perception if not carefully integrated.