Strahov Park

The Strahov area forms a connection between the open countryside to the west and the compact, enclosed city to the east. However, in its current form, it comes across as quite awkward and unclear. The goal of the proposal is to achieve a clearer transition between the city and the countryside, between fullness and emptiness. This can be accomplished either by densifying the development or, conversely, by completely pushing it beyond clearly defined borders.

The chosen solution stems from the fact that the current use and related development are inadequate to the potential that the area has. By connecting to Ladronka Park and the surroundings of the Hvězda game preserve, a vast and, in a certain sense, symmetrical landscape formation will emerge, linked to other significant green spaces of city-wide importance.

The history of this place also plays a role. Before there were stadiums and dormitories, it was an agriculturally used periphery. The elevated position above the surroundings, but primarily the proximity to the Baroque fortifications, whose forefield had to remain undeveloped and deforested for strategic reasons, gave the place its exceptional character. In my proposal, I seek to restore this significance. The main function of the area is to provide an impressive sensory and spiritual experience. Development at the edges of the hill is only a supplementary use.

---

Commentary from the jury:
As the best solution for the development of Strahov Plain, the radical exclusion of new construction to its edges was found, leaving the top of Strahov Hill open. We can discuss the routing of paths or the division of green areas, but in any case, we appreciate the courage to express a clear opinion to not build on the plain and to let its landscape quality resonate.