Competition Proposal — 2026

Visualizations — Ing. Jakub Komárek

Education is the Key

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The subject of the competition was the heritage restoration and functional adaptation of the semi-detached house No. 35–36, located in the symbolic center of the Prague Castle complex — a canon residence built in the Neo-Gothic style according to the design of architect Josef Mocker — into an educational center with learning spaces, facilities, and refreshments.

The aim of the competition was to find a sensitive, contemporary, and long-term sustainable use for the historic building, including ensuring barrier-free access. The educational center will connect civic and democratic education with the space of Prague Castle and its history. The program will focus on themes of Statehood, History, Art History, and Aesthetics.

The educational center is designed in the very heart of Prague Castle — a symbol of Czech statehood, European cultural continuity, and one of the most visited metropolitan sites in Europe.

The space offers an educational journey — from the past toward understanding the present, and through dialogue toward the future.

WHITE — BASEMENT LEVEL / MEMORY

Connection between the courtyard of the Mladota House and the inner courtyard of the Mocker Houses

Opening of the blind western wall as a transformation of a barrier into a continuation of public space

An intimate view of the Deer Moat in the shape of a keyhole, because EDUCATION IS THE KEY

Work with the contrast of darkness and light — white as a symbol of memory and continuity

BLUE — GROUND FLOOR / OPENNESS

Restoration of the original symmetry of the semi-detached house

Barrier-free access via a funnel-shaped ramp

Public foyer with café and information facilities

Dominant blue color — a symbol of movement, presence, and openness

RED — FIRST FLOOR / DIALOGUE

Main multifunctional halls

Flexible arrangement for lectures, workshops, seminars, and interactive learning

Furniture integrated into a built-in wall system

Red color as a symbol of energy, interaction, and creativity