Albertov's Community Hub

ARCHIP, Architectural Institute in Prague

Project idea

The project is located in the south of Prague, near the historic center, on the Albertov campus, in the heart of a natural green space.
After a thorough analysis of the campus, we identified a lack of attractiveness, particularly the absence of a place where students and local residents can gather during a break, after a day's work, or on weekends. We propose to create a space where students and residents can work, engage in cultural activities, get to know their colleagues and neighbors better, or simply relax outside of the work environment.

Project description

The renovation project of this abandoned building aims to breathe new life into it for both campus students and local residents. To break the monotony of its 55-meter length, I've incorporated entrances both on the right side and at the center of the building, marked by distinct exterior rectangles that also divide the interior spaces. Two other significant improvements have been made: firstly, the addition of a greenhouse providing pleasant interior brightness while offering a delightful view of the surrounding nature from the café. Secondly, two vegetation wells have been installed on either side of the building, deeply connecting the indoor space with nature and allowing users the opportunity to take a break outdoors while remaining indoors.

Regarding the interior layout, upon entering from the right side of the building, visitors are greeted with a spacious café, accompanied by its vegetation well, offering a relaxing natural ambiance. Just before reaching the central entrance, toilets and a staff room are available on each side. Once through the central entrance, visitors encounter a productivity-focused space, featuring a multipurpose hall suitable for university projects, end-of-semester presentations, community exhibitions, and more. Finally, at the rear of the building, on the other side of the second vegetation well, is a study area equipped with lounge areas, desks, and computer stations.

Technical information

To preserve the style of the existing architecture, the exterior facade would be clad in wooden slats on a concrete structure. The rectangular entrance would be made of raw concrete, while the greenhouse would be constructed of glass and iron. As for the interior, the floor would be covered in parquet, reminiscent of the texture of the exterior facade, while the walls would be finished in polished concrete, accompanied by green tiles for the skylights, for a modern and elegant effect.