2023

4th Quadrant Victory Square

BCA Prague 4th quadrant C Bird2 1

Plans for the 4th Quadrant site of Victory Square in Prague involved a mixed-use development, aiming to revitalize the area by adding over 100,000 m² of housing, offices, civic amenities, a building for the University of Chemistry and Technology, and a Culture Centre with two halls. This development aims to create an appealing neighborhood for nearby residents, students, visitors, and campus employees.

In close collaboration with OVA we designed a contemporary, varied program of functions, building typologies, public spaces and urban interiors for this historical plot, respecting but enriching the original plan. The primary feature of the design is the contrast between a lively public square, to encourage social interaction, and a calmer block with a lush green micro forest.

BCA Prague 4th quadrant site plan 01 context web
BCA Prague 4th quadrant Site Plan

layers of time

The 4th Quadrant development is the long-awaited completion of Antonin Engel’s Masterplan for Vítězné Náměstí (Victory Square). The winning proposal complements Engel’s 100 year old blueprint and simultaneously adds a contemporary time-layer to it, opening up new possibilities for a diversified public realm attracting a variety of residents, users and visitors.

DEMOCRATIC ARCHITECTURE

Victory Square's historical ties to the birth of the Czech Republic are echoed in its majestic layout and neo-classical architecture. Today, while democratic values remain robust, their essence has evolved towards spaces that are more accessible, inclusive, and engaging. Benthem Crouwel Architects' design champions 'Democratic Architecture', fostering inclusive, engaging spaces that serve both function and community well-being.

BCA Prague 4th quadrant C Square 001

BUSTLING SQUARE VERSUS MICROFOREST

The design is building upon the diverse characteristics of the existing streets and public spaces surrounding the site, from the dynamic boulevard to the more quiet pedestrian streets. By opening up Engel‘s geometry to the public, two contrasting qualities arise on the plots along Technická Street. On one side a public square, formed by all-sided buildings, invites people to come together, interact and celebrate life. On the other side, a city block embraces a semi-private oasis; the micro forest offers a fantastic living environment.

BCA Prague 4th quadrant N15 a4
BCA Prague 4th quadrant N22 a4

ACCESSIBLE

The plinth is fully permeable and is characterized by open facades, welcoming entrances, informal routes, alleys, passages and squares. The first underground level is seamlessly integrated as part of this plinth and offers an additional layer to public life. It connects directly to the metro station, the mall, the Culture Centre, the university, offices, retail and food-market.

BCA Prague 4th quadrant N20 a4

HUMAN SCALE

The set of unique buildings is thoughtfully designed to form a diverse yet recognizable entity. This leads to a holistic, inclusive and people-oriented urban development with depth and significance; a collage of different shapes and spaces tailored to a human scale, ensuring a sense of belonging and inclusivity for both residents and visitors.

The plans for 4th Quadrant of Victory Square will be further developed in the next period.

Given the historical and symbolic significance of Victory Square, our main ambition is to create the 4th Quadrant as the heart for a diversified social, economic and cultural life in Prague 6, attracting a variety of residents, users and visitors.

Pascal Cornips

Partner

Pascal Cornips
Architects
Benthem Crouwel Architects, OVA (CZ)
Landscape architect
Rehwaldt Landscape Architects
Clients
Fourth Quadrant company: Penta Real Estate, Sekyra Group, Kaprain
Competition organised in cooperation with
University of Chemistry and Technology in Prague (UCT), City of Prague, Prague Institute of Planning an Development, Prague 6 Municipality
Location
City of Prague
Gross floor area
102.000 m2
Competition
2022-2023
Start design
2023