Is it possible for a building to evoke mixed feelings? Here at Merkuria, it certainly does. This administrative building, dating back to the 1970s, stands as a stark reminder of Czechoslovakia’s communist regime.
Merkuria was designed by architects Vlastibor Klimeš, Eva Růžičková, Vratislav Růžička and Milan Vašek and erected between 1967 and 1971. It’s located on Argentinská Street in Prague 7- Holešovice.
Merkuria embodies Brutalist aesthetics with its central composition. It features a communication core and four corner towers. Originally, a central staircase, two quick lifts and a paternoster provided vertical access. A suspended facade with vertical elements completes the structure’s mass.
Many associate such architecture with a difficult past. Brutalist buildings like Merkuria, however, have shaped Prague’s cityscape. They form a significant architectural layer. The hasty demolition of these structures risks erasing this period’s building culture. Merkuria faces this threat.
Located on the edge of the Holešovice block, Merkuria is near the Bubny-Zátory brownfield. This area is slated for large-scale construction. Demolishing Merkuria would eliminate a valuable testament to Brutalist architecture. Its iconic presence could enhance new developments. Furthermore, Merkuria boasts excellent transport links in Prague’s wider city center.
However, there is hope. Plans exist to breathe new life into Merkuria. The vision involves transforming it into shared housing and spaces for work and public functions. This adaptation seeks to meet modern society’s needs while preserving Merkuria’s architectural value.
The proposal aims to retain Merkuria as a distinctive structure. The addition of two lower side towers reinforces its composition. The project cultivates neglected public spaces around the building. Green areas and trees would replace parking lots. Removing a single-story plinth creates a forecourt-park for public use.
The original Brutalist expression would be preserved despite the functional changes. The removal of the dark central core would create an open atrium. New staircases would serve both the office tower and residential towers. This decentralization supports various uses, from a hybrid space to an apartment building.
The facade cladding would retain the original boletic panel, insulated and fitted with aluminum panels. French windows would replace larger units in residential areas. Timber windows, external shading, and potted castellations would complement the residential towers. A subtle cracked facade decor would enhance the cladding.
The central tower would maintain its workspace character. Side towers would adapt for shared living. The building’s parterre would host public functions like a restaurant, hall, shop and fitness center. A hostel would occupy the first floor. The crown of the central tower would become a coworking center with a bar. Unused roof terraces could transform into green living spaces.
The Mercury project is set to reuse materials from the Merkuria building. Concrete will be crushed and reused for the new superstructure. Kitchenettes were donated to refugee homes. Around 100 doors were gifted to the Bulovka University Hospital.
Merkuria stands as a symbol of resilience. It represents a challenge to preserve history while adapting to the future. Its story is far from over. Merkuria’s next chapter promises a blend of old and new, preserving Prague’s architectural heritage.