The subject of the bachelor’s thesis is a study of the heritage restoration of the chateau in Velké
Němčice, with an emphasis on preserving the historical values of the building and its adaptation
to new functions. The project is based on the course BGA032 – Architectural Design Studio. The
building is located in the western part of the village of Velké Němčice and forms part of the
historical core of the village known as Městečko.
The site of the present-day chateau was probably originally occupied by a fortress established by
pre-Hussite nobility, with its foundation dated to the 1420s. After the fortress was abandoned,
a new chateau was built between 1550 and 1562 by Zikmund Heldt and was surrounded by stone
walls and a moat. In the following centuries, the building underwent Renaissance modifications
under the Lords of Lomnice and further repairs during military conflicts, particularly during the
Thirty Years’ War. In 1626, the chateau was purchased by Šimon Kratzer, who carried out
extensive renovations. During the 19th century, the building was adapted into a municipal school,
and in 1948 it was reconstructed for the needs of a secondary school. In 2006, the chateau was
declared a cultural monument.
The aim of the design is a comprehensive reconstruction of the entire chateau building,
complemented by a new staircase extension and the removal of inappropriate modern additions.
The proposal assumes a new functional use of the building as an administrative, social, and
cultural centre of the village. The chateau is designed to include premises for the municipal
office, a ceremonial hall, a community centre, and a seasonal bar.
An important part of the proposal is also the design of the adjacent public space between the
chateau and the opposite church. The modifications of this area aim to strengthen the
connection between the significant historical landmarks of the village and to create a high-quality
public space serving both local residents and visitors.
The design emphasizes the preservation of valuable historical structures and architectural
elements, while inappropriate modern interventions are removed. The newly designed staircase
extension is conceived as a contemporary architectural element creating a contrast with the
historic mass of the building. The main idea of the proposal is to open the chateau to the public
by creating new entrances and passages through the building, as well as by improving interior
daylighting, which contributes to better orientation and overall enhancement of the interior
environment.
The revitalization of the building and its surroundings will create a multifunctional space
supporting the social and cultural life of the village while preserving an important historical
monument for future generations.