The reconstruction of Ostrava’s iconic high-rise, designed by Eva Jiřičná, will have a Slovak connection

The long-awaited reconstruction of the high-rise building on Ostrčilova Street near the centre of Ostrava officially got under way on Tuesday, 11 August, with a ceremonial groundbreaking. The building, dating from the second half of the 1960s, will be transformed into a modern residential development with 111 apartments based on a design by internationally acclaimed Czech architect Eva Jiřičná.

The First Skyscraper project is being developed by a consortium comprising Czech construction company BBP stavby and Slovakia’s KAMI profit. Their ambition is to breathe new life into one of Ostrava’s defining high-rise landmarks while preserving its distinctive architectural character. Investment platform Crowdberry has also joined the project, enabling private investors to participate in its financing and co-own more than half of a development set to become a notable addition to the Czech architectural landscape.

A project by a Czech architect of global standing

The reconstruction of the building, widely known as Ostrava’s “skyscraper”, is based on a design by Eva Jiřičná and Petr Vágner of AI DESIGN. Professor Jiřičná is one of the most prominent figures in Czech architecture, with an internationally recognised career and a portfolio that includes the Orangery at Prague Castle, work on the iconic Lloyd’s building in London and design elements at the Victoria and Albert Museum. Her work is renowned for its meticulous attention to detail and distinctive use of glass and steel.

The architectural concept preserves the character of the original building while adapting it to the requirements of contemporary residential living.

“Every reconstruction is essentially a dialogue with what is already there. I do not believe the right approach is to overpower an old building at all costs. It is far more interesting to understand its potential and find a way to make it work for the way we live today,”