Reconstruction of Hospital "U Apolináře"

Prague

2020

Architecture study

As part of our proposal, we meticulously studied the existing St. Apolinář Maternity Hospital building, designed by the renowned architect Josef Hlávka between 1865 and 1875. This building, a prominent example of North German neo-Gothic style, holds a significant position in Czech architecture. Today, it is among the longest continuously operating maternity hospitals in the world, with around 4,600 births annually.

Based on the requirements provided by Professors Pařízek and Plavka, we analyzed the entire hospital complex to determine the best location for the new neonatology pavilion and delivery rooms. After careful evaluation, the site of the former boiler and laundry building, which was fully converted into a kitchen in 2012, emerged as the ideal solution. This structure had undergone various insensitive modifications over time, making it suitable for replacement with a new building.
The new pavilion will be constructed almost entirely on the same footprint as the previous building, maintaining a similar volume to integrate harmoniously with the surrounding architecture. To ensure the new structure does not disrupt the historical complex, we opted for a contextual design that sensitively complements the existing ensemble. Special attention has been paid to the façade treatment, which will consist of concrete panels colored to match the original building, featuring imprints of original cornices and details from historical structures. This approach ensures continuity with the original architecture while incorporating modern design elements.

The new building will have three above-ground floors and one basement level. The main vertical circulation will be located in the center of the building, with additional emergency staircases at both ends. An English courtyard around the perimeter will allow ample natural light to reach the basement spaces, which will house medical and technical operations.
The first floor will contain the main entrance, outpatient clinics, and administrative offices. The western portion of the ground floor will house a cafeteria with 136 seats and a kitchen with its own supply area, while the eastern section is dedicated to education, including a large and small lecture hall and a room for parent training.

On the second floor, the Neonatology IMC (Intermediate Care) unit will be situated, while the third floor will accommodate the Neonatology JIRP (Intensive Care Unit). The third floor will also connect to the historical building via two enclosed bridges, ensuring seamless movement between the new pavilion and the original maternity hospital. The rooftop will feature a large terrace accessible to patients, providing a peaceful outdoor space within the hospital environment.
The project also includes the sensitive restoration of the historical maternity hospital building, returning its interiors and façades to their original appearance. The overarching goal is to create a harmonious link between the new and old parts of the complex, preserving its historical heritage while meeting the modern functional requirements of the hospital.

To avoid disrupting the entire complex with a contrasting new building, we opted for a contextual solution that would sensitively complement the whole. We imprinted the pattern of the historic building’s façade onto the new building’s cladding, thus achieving a connection and harmonious integration of new elements into the existing historic structure.
— Hana Vočková
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