The Club for Old Prague welcomes the renovation of the Invalidovna with a modern extension

Prague – The Club for Old Prague welcomes the reconstruction of the Baroque Invalidovna, which is set to receive a modern extension. "The modern extension of such a architecturally valuable historical building is not primarily a desired solution, but in cases of operational necessity or benefit, it is not forbidden either," the club stated today in a statement sent to ČTK. The visualization of the Invalidovna after the reconstruction was presented in September this year by the National Heritage Institute (NPÚ), which transferred the property to the state two years ago. The proposal has drawn mixed reactions.

The reconstruction of the national cultural monument includes an extension according to the design of architect Petr Hájek. The Baroque building is to receive two multi-storey wings, which will house, for example, a concert hall. The two proposed white wings that significantly exceed it according to the design presented in September form a strong contrast with the palace. The refurbished complex is intended to serve as the headquarters of the NPÚ and the Prague Philharmonic Choir, with part being accessible to the public through a tour route. Exhibition and conference spaces, as well as areas for education and community activities, will also be created in the Invalidovna.

"Part of the public perceives the extension as a successful example of harmony between classic and modern, while others see it as an unpleasant contrast. We lean towards the opinion that the extension under the aforementioned circumstances is an acceptable solution to the situation that has arisen, and we prefer its slightly reduced variant, which was presented by architect Petr Hájek additionally in November. Furthermore, we evaluate very positively that the operation of the concert hall will undoubtedly contribute to the overall revitalization of the Invalidovna complex," the Club for Old Prague stated today.

According to the club, the transfer of the Invalidovna to the management of the NPÚ was the best thing that could happen to the monument. "For the historical object, this guarantees a sensitive approach to adapting it for new uses. At the same time, we have the assurance that this use will not conflict with the building's capabilities - which would undoubtedly have been a concern if it were purely for commercial use," the club's representatives believe.

They add that conditions for the transfer also included a commitment to repair and make the building accessible within nine years of taking over. If this condition is not met, the building would revert to the Office for the Representation of the State in Property Matters. The club criticizes the fact that the fear of delays led the NPÚ not to follow the path of an open architectural competition, but to approach four architectural offices. "From this process emerged the new reality that the placement of rehearsal and concert spaces for the PFS in the historic building without problematic heritage interventions is not feasible. The Invalidovna primarily contains accommodations for retired soldiers, and a new hall with optimal acoustics would have to be demolished," says the club.

Therefore, the NPÚ decided on the variant of the extension offered by Petr Hájek, which connects to the gable walls of the incomplete building at the southern facade. "The southern gable walls of the Invalidovna, in the places where the building was supposed to continue according to the original project, are the most acceptable location for the extension. It will not disturb the view of the main facade, but at the same time, it will complete the unfinished facade at the back," the club appreciates.