The Faculty of Architecture at CTU - one of the symbols of modern architecture in Prague
Fifteen years ago, the Faculty of Architecture at the Czech Technical University (CTU) in Prague gained its own modern building. The winning design emerged from one of the largest architectural competitions in the country, and sparked a lively debate at the time. Today, it is regarded as one of the key works of contemporary Czech architecture.
In 2004, the Czech Technical University in Prague announced an architectural competition for a new building for its Faculty of Architecture. It was triggered exceptional interest: most of the country’s leading architects entered, and the competition became one of the most discussed projects of its time. The jury did not select a winner outright but recommended a design based on simplicity and quality materials.
The new building was constructed in the Dejvice university campus, one of the main centers of technical education in the Czech Republic. The architects used concrete and brick to emphasize structural logic and functionality. The aim was to create an environment that would encourage students to think about architecture without unnecessary effects.
For the university, it was the largest investment in more than three decades. Architectural education at CTU has a long tradition stretching back nearly 300 years, but the faculty only acquired its own building in 2011. The new structure encompassed studios, lecture halls, and student facilities, which until then had been scattered across different parts of the campus.
The official opening took place on 22 February 2011. Since then, the building has become a prominent landmark and one of the symbols of modern architecture in Prague. Its austere aesthetic sparked debate from day one, but fifteen years on, it is clear that the building has withstood the test of time – both as a functional university facility and as a significant work of architecture.
New Building of the Faculty of Architecture, CTU
- Competition: 2004
- Construction: 2009–2011
- Architect: Alena Šrámková
- Opening: 22 February 2011
- Cost: CZK 1.225 billion
- Location: Dejvice university campus, Prague
- Materials: exposed concrete, brick
- Significance: largest investment in CTU in 30 years; consolidation of architectural education
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