Circular arches embedded in a Prague embankment contain shops, cafes and public spaces

Design

#architecture #Czech Republic #Prague #river #stores

New cafes, galleries and studios are appearing along the Vltava River in Prague, although they are not immediately visible from the top of the riverbank. Tucked inside old storage units built into the structure itself are several tunnel-shaped spaces redesigned for public use. Appearing as glass portals lining the waterfront, the multi-purpose project is part of the Czech city’s efforts to revitalize a four-kilometer strip of the riverbank, which previously served as a parking lot, and is the undertaking of architect Petr Janda who runs the Prague studio Brainwork.

Each vaulted place contains concrete walls and floors and shiny stainless steel that reflects its surroundings. Six circular tunnels are intended for shops and galleries, featuring large elliptical glass doors, while the other 14 spaces are marked with a sculptural entrance, hiding the remaining area occupied by private tenants or used for public restrooms. “The interventions merge in symbiosis with the original architecture of the riverside wall, into which they blend naturally,” Janda told designboom. “Using the strategy of acupuncture, they recreate a monumental whole.”

Head over to Instagram to find preliminary sketches for the redesign and follow Brainwork’s future plans.

#architecture #Czech Republic #Prague #river #stores

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