Their project was developed as part of a conservation of monuments course led by Dr. Filip Tomaszewski at the Department of History of Architecture, Revitalization, and Conservation of Monuments. The award ceremony will take place on October 6 in Prague.
Competition with history and grandeur
The competition was organized by Charles University in Prague — and, importantly, it was open to students worldwide. A total of 27 projects from 14 countries participated, with the competition level being exceptionally high. The challenge was to propose a new life for a baroque castle in Zahrádky, Liberec region.
Organizers expected ideas that would reconcile conservation requirements with the needs of modern users. Plans included creating a conference centre with accommodation, a municipal information centre, and recreational spaces. The competition encompassed not only the palace but also adjoining buildings — the former farmstead, orangery, and greenhouse.
A heritage with a turbulent past
The history of Zahrádky castle dates back to the second half of the 16th century. After the Thirty Years' War, it came into the hands of Albrecht von Wallenstein, one of Europe’s most powerful magnates, who gave it a baroque character and surrounded it with a park.
In the 20th century, the castle served as a youth home and a foreign language learning center. Unfortunately, in 2003, it was destroyed by fire. Since then, the site has awaited thorough reconstruction and adaptation, with the international competition serving as a stimulus to restore its former glory.
The vision of Polish students
The project prepared by architecture students stood out not only for their respect for the original site but also for a modern approach to functionality and ecology.
The authors paid attention to conservation elements while also incorporating solutions aligned with sustainable development and new technology use. In their concept, the castle has a chance to become both a regional symbol and a modern international meeting centre.
A success that inspires
It is remarkable that work completed during didactic classes gained recognition in such a prestigious competition. It is the best proof that our students can find their way in the international environment and create projects that can effectively change spaces and preserve cultural heritage. The Zahrádky castle still awaits reconstruction, but thanks to students from Lodz University of Technology, its future looks brighter.