New Zizkov Centre, Prague

2024

On the extensive grounds of the former Cetin Tower in Žižkov, we have developed a comprehensive architectural proposal that addresses the entire urban context of the location. This includes square towers, block developments, connected passages, a central circular high-rise building, and a kindergarten. The entire concept is organized into Blocks I-III and enclosed by Olšanská and Želivského streets, where a central square with a fountain and an art piece is created at their intersection, adding identity and character to the urban space.

The architectural composition consists of square towers positioned at the corners of the individual complexes and adjoining block developments, which enclose the site with their arrangement. At the center is a tall cylindrical tower, creating a dynamic ensemble with the square towers and blocks. This integration of diverse elements forms a harmonious whole, meticulously thought out and unified within a consistent ground floor. The square towers dominate the commercial spaces across two floors, while the block buildings offer shops and services on one floor.

Our design features a cylindrical tower with an overall height of 83 meters, embodying the concept with undulating balconies that elegantly twist beneath each other, resembling a jewel in the urban space. The circular layout of the high-rise emphasizes optimal residential use. These balconies are not only aesthetic but also enhance the building's energy efficiency. The continuous balconies with varying depths influence sunlight exposure and improve the building’s aerodynamics, positively impacting the surrounding microclimate.

The balconies also provide privacy for tenants, with partitions between apartments and the undulating balconies creating individual alcoves. For the deeper sections of the balcony, we have designed built-in planters with central irrigation, adding a natural element to the structure. Some plants are designed to cascade down, while others grow vertically, giving each wave of balconies diversity and originality. Additionally, the wall of the balcony is lowered in the greenery areas to enhance the view, while in the shallowest areas, the wall is raised to provide privacy for the living spaces inside. The balcony's perimeter is subtly decorated with a groove that follows the wave-like character. This combination lends authenticity to each wave of balconies.

The building is crowned with an ornamental top, highlighting its lightness. The residential units range from 2-bedroom, 3-bedroom, and 4-bedroom apartments to penthouse duplexes with stunning views of Prague. The first two floors are dedicated to commercial use, such as cafés, wellness centers, and the building's reception.

The overall design of the other buildings includes six square towers, with heights ranging from 12 to 17 floors. These towers and blocks share a similar character to the undulating balconies of the high-rise tower but are orthogonal rather than organic, with variably shaped balconies whose depth changes according to the living space and architecture of each building, aligning with the overall concept and character of the locality. The facades facing main streets differ from those facing internal courtyards. The creation of loggias and chamfered frames in response to busy streets serves to protect living spaces and add another dimension to the architecture. Chamfered frames create a border around each apartment unit and its glazed surfaces, featuring a receding triangle motif that is echoed in the balconies of the other buildings.

In terms of color and material, we focused on harmony among the elements. The cylindrical tower is fully glazed with snow-white balconies, while the square towers feature silver cladding between window strips and white balconies. The blocks are clad in grooved panels with a vertical pattern. The passages are also clad in grooved panels but in a contrasting dark grey color with a horizontal pattern. For the chamfered frames, light grey tones were chosen, darkening based on the location of the loggias.

The overall design of the roofs draws from the organic shapes of the ground floor and greenery, featuring green and grassy areas that connect the various buildings. Some apartments have their own rooftop terraces, while others share communal terraces for all residents of the building.

In the southern part of the site, there is a public park connecting the area with the surroundings and intersecting with bike paths. This idea of integrating with the environment and promoting sustainable mobility enhances the attractiveness of the entire location.

The kindergarten, located in the southwestern part of the site, is designed with a rectangular layout and glass surfaces, allowing the classrooms to connect with the garden and balconies. The colorful fencing and railings of the kindergarten, chosen in yellow, create a friendly and playful impression. The interiors are deliberately designed in vibrant colors, visible through the glass facades and bright cladding. The solid facade can be used as an artistic wall for the children in the future.

The overall aesthetic concept and arrangement of the project combine architecture and public space, considering the needs of residents and harmony with the surrounding environment. The project aims not only to address urban challenges but also to create a modern and pleasant urban environment for living, working, and leisure. Our architectural solution is carefully thought out and comprehensive, focusing on revitalizing the area of the former Cetin Tower. The goal is to bring new life to this part of the city and create an attractive place for future residents and visitors.