ŠPINDLERŮV MLÝN PLANS A NEW CENTER

The architectural competition is heading into the final round.

The international competition, whose jury includes renowned architect and designer Eva Jiřičná, is addressing the future design of the space between the Savoy Hotel and the White Bridge on the left bank of the Elbe.

In March, the jury selected three finalists, whose designs will be unveiled to the public on June 6. 

According to the jury chair, respect for the site is key to the evaluation. “Špindl is an institution. It is a place with character and history. Therefore, the designs must have one thing in common: respect and sensitivity,” said urban planner Igor Marko.

The quality of public space and its connection to the surrounding landscape also play an important role. “What happens in this town is extremely important,” added landscape architect Štěpánka Endrle.

In her view, the new center should not be an isolated project but a natural part of the city.

The scope of the planned construction is the main source of debate. Some council members and local residents point to the town’s already high burden and fear further pressure on the infrastructure.

“Špindl is already overburdened with rental apartments. We have a thousand residents here, but the infrastructure is designed for twenty thousand,” said council member Kraus.

Concerns center on the use of the new apartments. Some point out the risk that they could serve primarily as investment properties and remain vacant for much of the year.

“Most Špindlerův Mlýn residents say: the town square, yes, but we don’t want a housing estate,” said Mayor Martin Jandura.

City officials acknowledge that it will not be possible to completely avoid residential construction. At the same time, however, they assure that they intend to set conditions so that new buildings have a practical use.

“We must ensure that these units generate fees from temporary stays and are used for short-term rentals,” said City Councilmember Jitka Hronešová.

The final design of the new center will be a combination of the architects’ proposals, the city’s requirements, and the investor’s input. The jury will select the winning project in June.

Prepared by: Sparkagency