Revitalization of 20 vaults in the Prague Riverside Walls by Petr Janda/Brainwork.

Petr Janda/Brainwork has initiated the cultural and social revival of a former quay and transhipment point along Prague’s riverfront, injecting energetic public space into its neglected shell. Glowing orbs pierce through the dark haze cloak the Vltava River at nightfall. Bright white light spills out of the vaults enclosed behind their circular outer faces that grow out of the foundations of the historical city like strange alien forms. Anyone walking past, on their way home from a busy workday or simply admiring the stillness of the night, can’t help but experience the undeniable pull of the unexpected sight. A pull that encourages all those who encounter the vaults, burrowed in the riverside walls, to take a closer look.

The oculi, whose forms pierce through the structure of the river embankments, bring a new and contemporary expression to a historical city. The repetitive circular shapes inject a fresh language in a landscape that is dominated by regular, gridded architectural interventions. The new vaults are designed to house cafes, clubs, studios, workshops, galleries and public amenities. Each is designed with modular flexibility so they can be moulded to suit the needs of its tenants.

The original stretch-metal-curtain-wall and stone constructions built into the bridge arches have been knocked down and replaced with large-format glazed round windows. The engine-powered elliptical pivoting windows allow for new public zones to flow seamlessly into the riverfront area, while more private spaces such as public toilets remain separate.

According to the architects, this project, through gradual program activation “achieves cultural and social revival, and subsequently, architectural rehabilitation”. Petr Janda/Brainwork have created new public spaces that merge with the spinal cord of the city, river Vltava, inviting the riverside deep into its interiors.

[Images courtesy of Petr Janda/Brainwork. Photography by Jakub Skokan and Martin Tůma / BoysPlayNice.]