Vltava Philharmonic Hall

FAST VUT - Faculty of Civil Engineering, Brno University of Technology, Department of Architecture

Project idea

Main theme of Philharmonic Hall design is connection of music, water (river Vltava) and architecture. Chosen location encourages contemporary futuristic building design. Even thought the site is located close to the center, local topography shields the location from impact on the historical character of Prague. The area lacks definition of space and Philharmonic Hall is needed catalyst of future development. The building divides the location into three public spaces - intimate space by the river, street space and representative plaza by the main entrance.

Project description

The design is a metaphore of symphonical poem of Vltava by Bedřich Smetana. Design is based on rhythm of 20x20 m raster, base mass ascends from Vltava river, slow gradation creates main shape wave - melody. The melody starts from small streams touched by lively quay. Waterfront changes into mysterious forrest theme from which emerge dramatic st. Jacobs torrents. The wild waves mass dynamically forms complex orchestral tones. Majestic brass mass of main Hall embodies monumentality of Prague. The volume of water Hall protrudes over the river like mighty rock of Vyšehrad.

Technical information

Urban plan proposes moving main road out of the waterfront and lead through new development of Bubny neighborhood. Underground parking for approx. 400 cars is located beneath the representative plaza. Waterfront is designed in cascading style enabling multiple means of use.

Emplacement on the terrain reflects height difference of 5 meters between west and east side of location. Building is defined by mass of main hall, which is surrounded by other functional units. Main Hall has capacity of 1800 spectators arranged in vineyard arrangement and is using the form to gain indirect illumination. Water Hall hanging over the river has capacity of 500 and is pure embodiment of water-music connection. Multifunctional hall has capacity of 400 spectators.

Cascading conception includes roof terraces. Terraces are connected to the performers dressing rooms, musical school, restaurant, foyer and some of them are freely accessible for public including the panoramic terrace. Terraces include greenery, that improve local microclimate and decrease environmental impact on surroundings.