Zuzanna Gąsior of Thisispaper Studio has transformed a former office space in a historic building at Marszałkowska 140 into the first therapeutic clinic for the 'Można Zwariować' Foundation.
Founded by Ania Cyklińska and Cleo Ćwiek, creators of a podcast dedicated to mental health and well-being, the clinic embodies their vision of a welcoming and thoughtful space that transcends traditional therapeutic environments.
Housed in a building under conservation protection, the project required meticulous care. Previously a law office for over 40 years, the space underwent a complete “reset” to shed remnants of its past. While the original layout of four symmetrical rooms and a central corridor was retained, thoughtful interventions redefined the space’s purpose. A central pillar, once a design challenge, was reimagined as an elliptical column—a sculptural centerpiece that unifies the space and draws attention to the “living room,” envisioned as the clinic’s beating heart.
Devoid of natural light, the living room relies on carefully curated elements to create warmth and character. The Pebbles AND light lamp, with its hand-blown organic shades, serves as both a functional and artistic focal point. This inviting aesthetic is complemented by the soft, sculptural sofa and the geometric Corso armchair, which create a harmonious dialogue between softness and structure.
Art plays a significant role in the clinic’s identity. Warsaw-based artist Bartłomiej Stawiński’s ear-inspired sculpture, suspended in a therapy room, symbolizes the act of listening—the cornerstone of empathy. “Its form reflects the balance between softness and precision,” the artist explains. “In the therapy room, it becomes a silent witness to transformation, bridging emotions and their resonance.”
Design details, like glass blocks, often overlooked in Polish architecture, are celebrated here. They subtly connect rooms, introducing rhythm and diffused light, inspired by Japanese minimalism. "Glass blocks are delicate, often misunderstood in the Polish architectural landscape, but for me, they hold immense potential,” Gąsior explains. “They create a poetic play of light, adding depth and tranquility to the interior.”
The floor, finished with Sashiko vinyl from Bolon, inspired by Japanese embroidery, offers a subtle yet expressive foundation accompanied by the delicate grey hues from Yvonne Koné Bleo on the walls. This neutral base is enriched with accents that enhance the sensory experience: light sculpture created by the artist Marek Bimer, handmade glassware by Aleksandra Zawistowska from Szkło Studio, rugs by Massimo Copenhagen, and a minimalist tray from Obscure Objects. The design invites not only visual engagement but also a deeper connection with the space, with a focus on ergonomic comfort—an essential consideration for the clients, who introduced the new Snap chair by Note Design Studio for Profim.The interior, although predominantly monochromatic, is enriched with natural tones and textures. Oak fronts designed by FRØPT were added to subtly warm up the space and enhance its natural character as well as handcrafted tables from OTOTO.
“Można Zwariować” redefines what a therapeutic clinic can be. Warmth replaces austerity, and artistry takes precedence over formality. Every detail—from lighting and furniture to artistic accents—is imbued with intention, creating an environment that nurtures comfort, presence, and transformation.
