EXTENSION OF THE CANTEEN AT MIKULÁŠSKÉ GYMNASIUM

PLZEŇ / ZÁBRAN, ŠLAJSOVÁ / 2024

The Mikulášské Gymnasium building, constructed in 1913 and protected as a historical monument, has recently been enhanced with a modern extension—a canteen that addresses contemporary needs while honoring the site's history. The original design of the school did not include dining facilities, requiring students to have lunch elsewhere. The pandemic highlighted the necessity for an in-house solution.

The new canteen thoughtfully utilizes a portion of the asphalt courtyard and a small segment of the school garden, which has long been leased to the Alpinum club. Despite initial concerns about disrupting the garden, the design was minimized to respect its flora, providing diners with a unique visual connection to the surrounding greenery. Large glazed areas integrate the interior with nature without disturbing the environmental balance.

CONCEPT OF THE EXTENSION

The extension is conceived as temporary. The combination of recycled and recyclable materials emphasizes sustainability and allows for easy future dismantling. The structure appears light, as if gently placed above the garden. Minimalist connections to the historic façade preserve the character of the original building.

TECHNICAL PARAMETERS

The canteen, equipped with a serving area, has a capacity of 300 meals per day and 70 seats. It is a timber structure clad in metal sheeting. Heating is provided by an air handling unit with heat recovery. The interior combines natural materials: wood, marmoleum, and recycled paper. Emphasis was placed on acoustics and a pleasant color scheme.

REALIZATION

Address: Mikulášské náměstí 1, Plzeň
Architects: Jiří Zábran, Markéta Šlajsová, PRO-STORY
Civil Engineer: Ing. Rudolf Jedlička
Contractor: PALIS s.r.o.