CZECH PROMOTION VOL. 1

A communication agency in Prague’s Karlín Palace completed in just three months. Speed, trust, and creativity shaped the identity of the space: paper tubes, a blend of historic and new elements, and a 750-kg oak table as a symbol of strength.

Area 900 m²
Project year: 2016

Principal architect Zuzana & Jan Kurz
Awarded by Office of the year 2017

Photo BoysPlayNice
Completion year: 2016 – 2017

Area 900 m²
Project year: 2016
Principal architect Zuzana & Jan Kurz
Awarded by Office of the year 2017
Photo BoysPlayNice
Completion year: 2016 – 2017

Moving the Czech Promotion communication agency from the iconic Villa Winternitz to the unrenovated premises of Karlín Palace, with its own, though less celebrated, history, within only three months, initially seemed like a foolish and almost naïve task. Yet it was precisely this time pressure that shaped both the design and our collaboration with the client and suppliers. From the very beginning, the project’s brief and concept merged to form a clear, unified vision, safeguarding against later disagreements or time-consuming debates over details. This approach demanded absolute trust between both parties – a risk, but one that became a strong source of motivation for everyone involved. Each design element carries its own story and added value. The division of the open space is formed by paper tubes that also serve as storage, creating a unique and recognizable identity for the interior.

These semi-partitions were assembled by the employees themselves, together with us, during the weekend before Monday’s opening. The chosen ivory color of the polyurethane floor coating recalls the nickname once given to the Villa Winternitz: the Beige Princess. This shade was also carried into the textured roller paint finish, which became a challenge for the painter, who had to revive long-unused skills. Much of the furniture is a mix of pieces found in antique shops, restored vintage chairs, and entirely new items from established Czech manufacturers. Most of the lighting fixtures were designed and produced by one of the company’s own divisions. And the highlight, both in craftsmanship and symbolism, is the main meeting table: a massive 750-kilogram oak piece made from leftover planks, costing only a fraction of the usual price, yet providing dignity and gravity to the agency’s central meeting room.

Materials

Wood • Paper • Glass • Concrete • Copilit • Paper tubes • Textile • Acoustic foam

Materials