Kunsthalle Hradec Králové

Project idea

The project aims to transform the inner courtyard into a public park that will provide residents and visitors with a green space for relaxation, cultural activities, and artistic experiences. The green zone, connecting public pedestrian routes, will serve as a natural counterbalance to urban traffic. At its center, a gallery will merge art with the natural environment, offering visitors not only exhibitions in the surface area but also a chance to explore artists' studios and workshops in the underground spaces. The gallery concept is based on providing exhibition spaces illuminated by both natural and artificial light, connected by a ramp. The entire design combines natural, cultural, and social elements, creating a dynamic and inspiring environment that will revitalize this urban space.

Project description

The gallery is composed of six cylindrical spaces, three located on the ground floor and three in the underground level, interconnected by a continuous ramp that creates a seamless, almost infinite promenade. The design of the gallery encourages a fluid movement between the different levels, with the ramp guiding visitors from one exhibition space to another, from light into darkness and back into the light again, blurring the lines between the surfaces and the underground. On the ground floor, the three cylinders serve as flexible exhibition areas, allowing for various layouts and three-dimensional installations. The underground level houses bigger gallery spaces, along with additional rooms designed for different functions, such as workshops and artist studios. These underground spaces are designed to engage visitors with the creative process, giving them a chance to explore the art-making process up close. Additionally, a parking area is integrated into the underground level, providing convenience for both visitors and residents, ensuring easy access to the gallery while maintaining the flow of the overall design.

Technical information

The gallery's construction is based on a steel frame structure, providing the necessary support and flexibility for the unique design. The façade of the ground floor is adorned with wooden slats, creating a dynamic play of light and shadow while allowing for natural light to filter into the exhibition spaces. The green roofs above the exhibition areas are not accessible, however, the roofs above the ramps are designed to be walkable, as they connect to elevated terrain where visitors can freely circulate. These roofs serve as additional spaces for visitors to explore, with safety railings installed along the edges of the roofs. The ramp that connects the different levels is designed with a smooth, gradual incline, ensuring accessibility for all visitors. The underground parking area is constructed with reinforced concrete to accommodate the weight of vehicles, while the flooring in both the exhibition spaces and parking area is finished with durable, easy-to-maintain materials such as polished concrete. The choice of materials and construction methods emphasizes both functionality and aesthetic coherence, contributing to the overall experience of blending architecture with nature.