Architects presented potential uses for the Zlín hospital complex

Zlín – Architects from two Brno studios presented their proposals today for the use of the T. Baťa Regional Hospital area in Zlín. The region wants to build a new hospital on the other side of the city in Zlín-Malenovice, therefore, it is discussing the utilization of the hospital complex with the city. Both the region and the city selected two architectural firms, which developed urban concepts. The two firms chosen by the region had already presented their designs earlier; today, the Brno companies knesl kynčl architekti and P.P. Architects, selected by the city, presented theirs.

In the newly created district, covering an area of about 20 hectares, there could be apartments, social services, administrative and commercial spaces. The proposals also account for greater use of the river, and the created riverbank area should be used for recreation and leisure activities. The designs plan to preserve the original Baťa buildings in the western part of the complex.

The knesl kynčl architekti office proposed the demolition of buildings in the area, retaining only the Baťa structures in the western part. It respects the Zlín concept; new buildings would be constructed on a traditional Baťa skeleton, consisting of universal four-story structures, which could accommodate housing, schools, or administrative purposes. "The area is divided by a basic spine road, the main boulevard," said architect Jakub Kynčl to ČTK today. The access along the riverbank will be reserved for pedestrians and cyclists. A new square will also be created. The health station is expected to have a new building, although the design does not include the headquarters of the emergency service; however, it could serve there for several years until the district is completed in phases.

The P.P. Architects design emphasizes significant contact with the riverbank. It retains some existing hospital buildings that can be further utilized, as well as the facility of the regional health station and emergency service. In the new central area, there could be apartments, commercial spaces, and parking structures are also proposed. In the western part, there could be space for senior housing and a polyclinic.

According to Zlín mayor Jiří Korec (ANO), all four proposals are of high quality. "All involve substantial demolition of buildings in the area, each to a different extent," said Korec. He praised the proposal that includes transportation connections to the area through the extension of 2nd May Street, creating a space along the Dřevnice River where people could spend their leisure time.

The expert jury is expected to select the winning proposal next week, which will then need to be approved by the city and regional councilors. According to Korec, the winning study will then be subject to consultations. The city still needs to resolve any potential sale of land in the hospital area with the region, as the city is interested in it, although some properties should remain with the region and the state.