Architectural redevelopment of the fire-damaged section of the Industrial Palace in Prague

CTU in Prague - Faculty of Civil Engineering

Project idea

History

The Industrial Palace at the Prague Exhibition Grounds in Holešovice was constructed in 1891 as the central pavilion of the Jubilee Provincial Exhibition, based on a design by architect Bedřich Münzberger, with its steel framework engineered by František Prášil. It was the first prefabricated steel-and-glass structure in the Czech lands. Despite challenging weather conditions, the palace was completed in just ten months by a workforce of 450 laborers. For decades, it served as a venue for exhibitions, trade fairs, and cultural events. In 2008, a devastating fire destroyed the building’s entire left wing.

Architectural Concept

Design of a Multifunctional Concert Hall and Exhibition Space within the Holešovice Exhibition Grounds
The proposal envisions the creation of a contemporary, multifunctional concert hall within the left wing of the Industrial Palace, seamlessly complementing the historical exhibition complex in Holešovice. The design introduces a flexible and innovative spatial solution, supporting a wide range of uses including concerts, exhibitions, trade fairs, and various cultural and social events. While respecting the character of the historic site, the project contributes meaningfully to its revitalization.

The complex is conceived as a unified whole, with the central hall functioning as the main entrance area, enabling fluid circulation between the right and left wings as well as the basement-level pavilion. The concert hall is designed for independent operation, featuring a direct public entrance from the colonnade.

Project description

The proposed concert hall, with a capacity of 1,000 seats, is conceived as a multifunctional venue offering state-of-the-art acoustics and spatial adaptability for a wide range of cultural and professional events, including those within the fairgrounds' programming. Directly connected exhibition areas—both above and below ground—accommodate gallery installations, immersive displays, and large-scale technological exhibits, while expansive outdoor zones are designed as flexible platforms for open-air exhibitions, seasonal amenities, and recreational uses. The architecture ensures seamless integration with the existing fairground pavilions, emphasizing permeability and fluid visitor circulation. Landscape interventions enhance ecological value and public experience, while the design incorporates sustainable transport solutions including underground parking, cycling infrastructure, and easy access to public transit. As a contemporary addition to the historical context of Prague’s Výstaviště, the project acts as a catalyst for urban revitalization and a dynamic interface between culture, leisure, and everyday city life.

Technical information

The architecture of the new section is defined by a combination of glass and metal elements that, through a contemporary approach, enter into dialogue with the historic building. The cladding features a perforated metal facade, conceived as an abstract "lace" that echoes the delicate ornamentation found in the details of the original structure. The primary load-bearing system is made of monolithic reinforced concrete.

The building incorporates renewable energy sources, including heat pumps and photovoltaic panels. HVAC units are integrated on the roof to provide efficient ventilation for spaces designed to accommodate high occupancy levels, such as the concert hall.

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