Prague’s Vltava Philharmonic: design details revealed, construction set for 2027
Prague is one step closer to its long-awaited Vltava Philharmonic Hall. Architects and city representatives have recently presented the final design to the public. The project documentation should be completed by autumn, with a building permit application to follow.
Designed by the Danish architectural studio Bjarke Ingels Group, the Vltava Philharmonic Hall is set to become a new cultural symbol of Prague. It will be built on the left bank of the Vltava River, next to the Vltavská metro station.
The design envisions the building as a seamless extension of the city’s urban landscape, flowing from the riverbank to a rooftop terrace. Architect Jan Magasanik from BIG studio, part of the team behind the project, introduced the vision at the Centre for Architecture and Urban Planning:
"The Vltava Philharmonic building is designed as a continuation of the urban landscaape—squares, streets, and the waterfront. And gradually, this landscape conceals the concert halls within it."
But the project is not just about music. The Philharmonic will be a multifunctional space for culture and education, explains Mr. Magasanik:
"There are three concert halls inside: a main hall for 1,800 visitors, a chamber hall, and a multi-purpose hall. There will also be facilities for two orchestras, a library, a school hall, and even two rooftop restaurants overlooking Prague."
The building is designed to improve the public space around it. A new escalator will help visitors move smoothly between levels, and an expanded open area with greenery will provide space for community events. Modifications to a nearby viaduct underpass will also improve access.
With construction set to begin in two years, the project will not only provide a world-class concert hall but also transform the surrounding area. Deputy Mayor Petr Hlaváček outlined the financial plan, estimating costs at just under 12 billion CZK:
"We assume that Prague will pay for one third of it, one third is expected to come from the state, and one third from private donors. Now in the spring, we will announce the provisions of the fund—it will take place at one of the Prague Spring concerts."
The plan also includes infrastructure upgrades:
"The project must include the reconstruction of Hlávkův Bridge. And perhaps as an interesting detail, deepening the riverbed is being considered so that a significant amount of material can be transported by water."
The Vltava Philharmonic will be home to both the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra and the Prague Symphony Orchestra. Construction is set to begin in 2027, with completion expected in 2032, making it one of Prague’s most significant cultural investments in decades.
