AFRY and Heatherwick Studio design the new Savarin palace complex in the historical centre of Prague

The Savarin complex, a 15.000 square meter site, is one of the largest urban development projects in the centre of Prague. The project consists of four interconnected parts, including the careful reconstruction of existing historic buildings and the creation of a completely new public space with greenery, courtyard open space and commercial areas.

Construction has started with the renovation of the Baroque palace in Na Prikope Street. Crestyl Group, owner and developer of the Savarin project, has chosen engineering and design company AFRY as the general designer for parts of this ambitious complex.

"We cherish the project in our hearts, and we want it to fit perfectly into the overall vision of Prague. That's why we're planning to renovate all the dilapidated historic buildings and bring life to the courtyard," says Simon Johnson, director of Crestyl Group.

The overall architectural vision and form of the Savarin project is in the hands of world-renowned British architect Thomas Heatherwick. The design is inspired by the context and rich historical heritage of Prague ⲻ from grand Baroque palaces to ordinary houses with pavilions and courtyards.

AFRY's role is both the localization of the architectural design to comply with Czech regulations, and the complete design of the operational and technical facilities. As the general designer, AFRY is responsible for the preparation of documentation for the zoning decision, for the building permit and for the selection of the construction contractor. During construction, AFRY will also perform site supervision.

"This project is exceptional in terms of its significance, location, price, overlapping into history and culture, and cooperation with the world's top architects. We are very pleased to be involved in this ambitious event, collaborating with Thomas Heatherwick. Furthermore, the complexity allows us to apply completely innovative and non-standard procedures and solutions. As general designer, we will help take the project from vision to reality," says Ivo Šimek, Country Manager Czech Republic and Slovakia, AFRY.

Download visualizations here Credit: Crestyl

For further information, please contact:

Anna Magni, Head of Communications, Infrastructure, AFRY
+46 10 505 39 74, anna.magni@afry.com

Ivo Šimek, Country Manager Czech Republic and Slovakia, AFRY
+420 60 271 51 94, ivo.simek@afry.com