QU.Proposal

Project idea

The concept philosophy

Let There Be Light! The project is located at Zahrádky Castle, a historic structure in the Liberec region, scarred by fire in 2003 yet standing strong. The design honors its resilience through light, material memory, and cultural continuity. Emerging from the central courtyard, wooden structures flow like symbolic ribs, bridging past and future. These become walkways, a zipline, and rooftop paths, representing strength, play, and renewal.

Inspired by the region’s crystal heritage, sculptural glass elements reflect and refract light, turning the castle into a glowing lantern. Local materials, color-filtering glass, and sustainable systems enhance energy performance while preserving identity. This is not just a reconstruction, it is a revival for future generations.

In addition, the project introduces crystal statues and colored glass elements that capture, refract, and dance with light. These materials become more than aesthetic, they become spiritual. The castle becomes a living lantern, glowing from within.

The castle does not just stand. It shines. It connects generations. It lets there be light!
The project proposes the revival of Zahrádky Castle, which was damaged by fire in 2003, through a design that reconnects history with the future using the concept of light. The goal is not merely restoration, but redefinition—transforming the castle into a symbol of resilience and intergenerational connection through contemporary architectural intervention rooted in local identity.

Objectives:
– Reintroduce the castle as a cultural and interactive public space
– Highlight the spirit of the place through light and local materials
– Create a sensory and educational spatial experience
– Integrate heritage preservation with sustainability and symbolic design

Project description

The project includes a multi-layered architectural intervention within Zahrádky Castle. It preserves the original historical shell while introducing elevated timber walkways emerging from the courtyard, rooftop paths, and a recreational zipline.

The design incorporates sculptural glass elements inspired by the Czech crystal tradition, adding a new visual identity to the castle. The scope also includes sustainable systems that enhance the site’s environmental performance while respecting its cultural legacy.

Scope Includes:
– Central courtyard activation
– Vertical and horizontal circulation paths
– Rooftop routes and structural walkways
– Glass sculptures and filtered light elements
– Passive energy systems and lighting integration

Technical information

– Location: Zahrádky Castle, Liberec Region, Czech Republic
– Area of Intervention: Central courtyard, rooftop, and circulation zones
– Primary Materials: Locally sourced wood, recycled structural glass, color-filtering glass panels, steel joints
– Structural System: Timber frame with steel reinforcements for elevated paths and ziplines
– Environmental Features: Passive ventilation, natural daylighting, solar energy systems
– Key Technologies: CNC-milled wood components, prefabricated modular structures, integrated LED lighting
– Sustainability: Use of local materials, minimal excavation, reversible construction

Documentation

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