Bachelor's Thesis

Transformation Smíchov

Final Thesis 56.87 MB Appendix 478.37 kB

Author of thesis: Jakub Onuščák

Acad. year: 2025/2026

Supervisor: Zuzanna Irena Mielczarek, MSc

Reviewer: Mgr. Ing. Wojciech Lesiak

Abstract:

This bachelor's thesis focuses on a plot on Preslova 9, Prague 5, Smíchov, and around a facility belonging to švandovo theatre. The project aims to apprach the reconstruction with elementary thoughts rooted in Experimental preservation movement, while fullfiling the program that was proposed by the director of švandovo theatre. This program includes a rehearsal space for theatre actors, dancers, etc. while also including the fucntion of transformer station for the surrounding area.
    Program of the project focuses on the rehearsal rooms, light and audio studios for the theatre with addiotional residencies for artists and technicians. This creates an ''imaginary backstage''of the theatre.
    Structural aim of this design is to preserve and build on what already exists on the site, while trying to reuse and upcycle elements of the current building. This results in a truss system suspending the new addition above the original structure.
    The project tries to engage in the surrounding urban context by providing an active frontage with a public function, and terraced seating. In this way, the project is trying to connect to the neighbouring Portheimka park to the west, while creating space for plaza in the south.

Keywords:

tabula scripta, revitalization, transformer station, rehearsal space, truss system

Date of defence

03.06.2026

Result of the defence

Defended (thesis was successfully defended)

znamkaBznamka

Grading

B

Process of defence

Obhajoba navrhovaného urbanistického řešení pro dané lokalitu jak z hlediska měřítka, tak propojení s okolím. Vyzvednutí využití prostorů, nových pater a celkového potenciálu budovy. Zaměření na přízemí a kavárnu. Důraz na technicko-konstrukční řešení a architektonické řešení. Po prezentaci návrhu a přečtení posudků následovala otázka směřující na vylepšení projektu a jak by dále student návrh vylepšil na základě svých zkušeností, které získal během celého procesu návrhu. Student objasnil promyšleně dotaz do hloubky. Doplňující dotazy byly položeny v kontextu architektonického řešení, např. schodiště a sousední dům; konstrukčního systému v 6.NP; vyjasnění detailů ohledně tepelného mostu; skladby zateplovacího systému a poslední dotaz směřoval k plynulosti provozu.

Language of thesis

English

Faculty

Fakulta architektury

Department

Faculty of Architecture

Study programme

Architecture and Urban Design (B_A+U)

Specialization

no specialisation (till 2022) (--- (do 2022))

Composition of Committee

doc. Ing. arch. Maxmilian Wittmann, Ph.D. (předseda)
Ing. Petr Suchánek, Ph.D. (člen)
Ing. arch. Vítězslav Nový (člen)
Ing. arch. Jaromír Walter (člen)
Mgr. et Mgr. Marie Bajnarová, Ph.D. (člen)

Supervisor’s report
Zuzanna Irena Mielczarek, MSc

Jakub chose to adapt and extend an existing building rather than design an entirely new structure. The design work was preceded by an analysis of the building’s structure and materiality, carried out partly in collaboration with his colleague Alex Vesely. The analytical component of the project is exceptionally strong and clearly presented through drawings, collages, and a carefully assembled materials catalogue. In Jakub’s case, these studies demonstrate an especially high level of analytical rigor and attention to detail. This part of the project is particularly deserving of recognition.

The student proposed a distinctive and clearly articulated connection between the existing and new parts of the building through an exposed full-storey steel truss. Jakub demonstrated a particular interest in technical details and construction solutions, and successfully resolved a design challenge that was far from straightforward due to concerns such as potential thermal bridging and the need to design an exposed structural element that was both technically effective and visually compelling. He consulted structural engineers on multiple occasions and devoted considerable effort to developing and graphically presenting the structural solutions, resulting in a well-resolved outcome. The gesture of connecting the two volumes in this way is legible and visually successful. It gives the building balanced proportions and clearly communicates the intervention within the existing fabric. Personally, I would have considered the use of glulam timber rather than steel in order to achieve a more contemporary character, and I suggested this possibility during the design process. However, I respect his decision to remain committed to his original choice. The resulting expression somewhat recalls OMA projects from the 1990s and early 2000s.

The programme, consisting of several floors of rehearsal rooms and a public ground floor with a café, is well designed. The residential floor located at the level of the roof terrace is also sensible and functional, although its spatial organisation could perhaps be more coherent, particularly given that it forms part of the new addition.

Particular attention should be given to the interior design, which is exceptionally attractive and demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of materiality in both the relation to the original building and creation of new value. This is communicated through calm, carefully composed visualisations with clean and relevant viewpoints. The exterior form and façades have likewise been thoughtfully developed and effectively presented. My only comment is that the references to modernism expressed through the articulation of the façades and windows could perhaps be either somewhat less literal or, conversely, pushed further towards a more deliberate postmodern pastiche – much like the truss itself. Nevertheless, I am very satisfied with the final outcome. I believe the student invested a tremendous amount of work in developing an interesting and thoughtful proposal for this site, providing new functions for the theater and improving the quality of public space around which would benefit from this building. 

As a final comment, I have to admit, that Jakub's graphic abilities and style are outstanding which is visible in the drawings, axonometries, visualizations as well as the layout of the booklet. 
Evaluation criteria Verbal classification Grade
Přístup studenta ke zpracování Working with Jakub was a very positive experience throughout the semester. He regularly attended consultations during both the research and design phases of the project. During the transition from the analytical stage to the design stage, there was a brief period where some slowdown and hesitation in decision-making could be observed; however, he managed to overcome these challenges effectively. Through dedication, persistence, and a willingness to explore appropriate solutions, he succeeded in developing the project in a strong direction. It was rewarding to accompany and observe his development throughout the semester. Our consultations were conducted in a collaborative and professional spirit, and Jakub consistently sought to incorporate the tutor’s comments and advice into his work. At times, however, he was quite determined in defending his own decisions. While this may ultimately prove to be a valuable quality for a future architect, during one’s studies it can occasionally be beneficial to place greater trust in the tutor’s guidance. Nevertheless, I greatly appreciated working with Jakub, who demonstrated a strong commitment to his work, openness to discussion, and a courteous and professional attitude. A
Points proposed by supervisor: 91

Grade proposed by supervisor: A

Reviewer’s report
Mgr. Ing. Wojciech Lesiak

The project deserves recognition. The floor plans are generally resolved correctly, although some of them reveal certain shortcomings. The student proposes an original and functional architectural solution that is appropriate to the local context and the identified needs. The project is presented in a clear and visually attractive manner, while the visualizations successfully emphasize the strengths of the design.
Evaluation criteria Verbal classification Grade
Urbanistické řešení The proposed urban design solution is appropriate to the location in terms of scale, connection with the surroundings, and sensitivity to the existing context. A particularly interesting aspect of the project is the activation of the public space through the creation of a public plaza that encourages social interaction and community activities. B
Provozní řešení In the project, the student introduces new functions to the building that are appropriate and based on a clear understanding of the theatre’s needs. The new functions serve not only the theatre staff and visitors, but, through the introduction of an active ground floor, also have the potential to stimulate and develop social life in the surrounding area. The proposed functional program appears complete and well suited to the intended use. The student efficiently integrates the planned functions within the existing structure, while the addition of new floors increases the building’s overall potential. Particular recognition should be given to the design of the ground floor, which accommodates both a café and a stage area. The café has been designed very skillfully so that it opens towards the surrounding public space and can function as a “third place” for the local community. The addition of an extra staircase is justified due to safety requirements; however, the duplication of the circulation function while retaining the original staircase raises certain concerns regarding the economic efficiency of the solution and the effective use of space. Some doubts may also arise from the placement of the storage area within the entrance zone to the recording studio. Interesting terraces were designed on the fourth floor, forming a distinct architectural accent and positively influencing the perception of the building’s massing. However, their size raises some concerns, as no potential arrangement or intended use for such large terrace spaces has been presented. The fifth floor does not raise any objections. Comfortable guest rooms were designed on the sixth floor; however, their layout leaves a certain sense of incompleteness, especially considering the potential for a more developed use of the rooftop terrace space. B
Technicko konstrukční řešení The proposed structural solution is a creative response to the need for the extension of the building. The presented steel structure details and the methods of strengthening the existing structure appear plausible and appropriate to the building’s requirements. The detail drawings are correct; however, for a full understanding of the project, details of the roof terrace layers would also be beneficial. B
Architektonické řešení The architecture of the building is compelling and well considered. The student introduces the new volume in an interesting way, respecting the existing structure while simultaneously creating a distinctive form with the potential to become a local landmark. The project clearly demonstrates inspiration drawn from modernist Czech architecture, which helps anchor the building strongly within the urban context of the city. Some doubts arise regarding the form and scale of the newly designed staircase. Its architecture could have been developed with greater sensitivity and attention to detail. B
Formální úroveň The graphic presentation of the project is clear and effectively communicates the design considerations. The visualizations are coherent and provide a convincing impression of the architecture and the realistic perception of the building. Although the project is based on an adaptation of an existing structure, the presentation clearly distinguishes which elements are existing and which are newly designed, as well as the scope of the proposed interventions within the building. B
Topics for thesis defence:
  1. What do you think would need improvement in your project, and how would you improve it based on the experience you gained throughout the entire design process?
Points proposed by reviewer: 80

Grade proposed by reviewer: B

Responsibility: Mgr. et Mgr. Hana Odstrčilová