KURZ architects: After 6 years, we are returning to Palác Karlín, the headquarters of the marketing agency Czech Promotion, to create another distinctive office space of over 1,000 m², which differs from the current design trends with its airiness, diverse structures and recycled materials.
The layout accentuates 2 key requirements: movement and communication. The main element of the open space is a dynamic multifunctional corridor filled with round mini meeting rooms. Recycling was a key element of the project, with the aim of finding sustainable, logistically and economically accessible materials, reflecting one of the agency's most important philosophies, to design functional solutions that maximise the desired effect at the lowest possible cost.
In the interior, you will find a window constructed with wine bottles, glass walls made from the original windows of the Palác Karlín, second-hand doors, wire mesh ceilings extending over the columns, and wooden wall panelling made from old beams. The space is filled with restored antique furniture combined with modern pieces from Czech manufacturers and bespoke furniture, such as the 9-metre-long work table. The walls of the round mini meeting rooms are covered with pillows creating suitable acoustic conditions for work. The white color is the theme unifying the raw texture of the materials, whether it is the brick walls, the fire retardant paint or the building services. Greenery grows throughout the interior and gradually overtakes the white spaces, symbolizing the dynamics of the company and natural growth.
About studio / author
KURZ architects studio was founded in 2017 so that Zuzana and Jan Kurz, who are at the very heart of the studio, would give a real outline of their mutual passion. Since then they have been building, step by step, a space where everyone involved, from fellow architects, planners, suppliers, etc. is inspired and most importantly encouraged to come up with their own creative solutions. In 2021, the studio was ranked among the TOP 10 most promising young architectural studios by the acclaimed ARCHITECT+ magazine.
In the process of creation, freedom and client's trust are essential to them. From these two main ingredients, the magical essence of each individual project is gradually materialized. Their approach to work does not believe in a characteristic style. They are convinced that each place requires a unique attitude and approach, consideration for local peculiarities, and the needs of the client. Nevertheless, it could be said that Zuzana and Jan's work is represented by a passion for materials in their authentic form, a great sense of detail, respect for traditions and proven methods, and last but not least a great deal of respect for nature. It is key to them to design buildings for real needs, use renewable energy and healthy, natural materials as much as possible. In their diverse portfolio you will find small, large, commercial and residential projects, interiors or their own products.
Often you will reach Zuzana and Jan on the road travelling from one project to the other. Yet they spend a large part of their free time revitalizing the cultural landscape of the Novohradské Mountains, where they decided to live permanently. They restore the original roads and paths, Calvaries or plant alleys. With respect for the landscape's tarnished past they try to provide a new long-term vision and so take considerate care of its future.
