Zaha Hadid Architects’ Masaryčka Building Transforms Prague’s Skyline

Prague, a city known for its rich history and iconic architecture, is set to welcome a groundbreaking addition to its urban landscape with the completion of the Masaryčka building by Zaha Hadid Architects. This architectural marvel, spanning an impressive 28,000 square meters, seamlessly blends modernity with the historical fabric of the city. Comprising seven stories in the east and nine in the west, Masaryčka is a multifunctional development catering to the burgeoning corporate sector while adapting to contemporary work dynamics.

A defining feature of Masaryčka’s design is its integration with the modernization efforts of Czech Railways at the historic Masaryk Railway Station. This collaboration results in the creation of a new public square, partially spanning over the railway tracks. Not only does this enhance accessibility to the platforms below, but it also establishes pedestrian pathways connecting Florenc and Hybernská on either side of the station. With the completion of its facade, the project is on track to open its doors in 2026, marking a significant milestone in Prague’s architectural evolution.

Zaha Hadid Architects’ Masaryčka Building: A Dialogue with Prague’s Heritage

Nestled adjacent to the southern railway platforms of Masaryk Station, the Masaryčka building by Zaha Hadid Architects breathes new life into a long-neglected site. In the western section, it replaces a car park on Havlíčkova Boulevard, introducing a vibrant public square that serves as a welcoming gateway to the city for suburban and domestic rail passengers, as well as those utilizing the express rail link to Prague’s international airport. Situated just one kilometer east of Staroměstské Square, Masaryčka engages in a visual dialogue with Prague’s Old Town. Drawing inspiration from ‘the golden city of 100 spires,’ the design incorporates external fins in the facade for solar shading, creating a captivating interplay of horizontal and vertical elements, particularly noticeable in the western facade facing the spires of the Old Town.

Commitment to Sustainability: Masaryčka’s Green Initiatives

Masaryčka stands as a testament to environmental responsibility, aiming for LEED Platinum certification. The building boasts a double-insulated facade designed to optimize natural light, inviting terraces that offer direct access to outdoor spaces, and communal roof gardens providing panoramic city views. Smart management systems actively monitor and adjust environmental controls, leading to a reduction in energy consumption. The commitment to sustainability extends to green initiatives, including the planting of local species irrigated by rainwater collection, the transformation of Na Florenci street into a tree-lined avenue, and the implementation of low-flow systems and grey-water recycling for cooling, air purification, and reduced water consumption. Moreover, Masaryčka’s construction prioritizes local suppliers and materials with high recycled content, aligning with the ambitious 2025 targets for embodied and operational carbon as set by the RIBA 2030 Climate Challenge. This holistic approach underscores a profound commitment to sustainable practices and responsible procurement in the heart of Prague.