Nový Hlavák,
designed by Henning Larsen Architects, Ramboll
Nový Hlavák is a project for the reconstruction of Prague's Central Station and its immediate surroundings. The plan includes the modernization of the station hall, the incorporation of a new streetcar line and the revitalization of Vrchlického Sady park. The project was selected as a result of a competition announced in June 2022, in which architects from the Copenhagen office Henning Larsen, working with the international engineering and architecture firm Ramboll, won.
organizers of the competition
and project implementation schedule
The competition organized by the Prague authorities, in cooperation with the Public Transport Company and the Railway Administration, aims to realize a comprehensive modernization. Construction work is expected to begin in 2028 and last three years. The project is estimated to cost around CZK 2 billion.
Nový Hlavák in Prague - visualization of the view of Vrchlického Sady park
©BloomImages
new era of mobility
and sustainable development
Nový Hlavák is expected not only to connect the Central Station and platform hall with Vrchlického Sady park, but also to set a new direction for urban mobility in Prague. The goal of the revitalization is to transform the Central Station, previously an isolated space, into a modern transportation center that will encourage travelers to use the area both inside the building and outside in the surrounding park. The project is expected to increase the number of visitors by as much as three times, representing a significant step toward sustainable development and an increase in the quality of life in the Czech capital.
Nový Hlavák in Prague - view of the Central Station and the new space with a wooden open canopy, visualization
©Vivid Vision
a tribute to the original building
Nový Hlavák will be a form of homage to the Art Nouveau Main Station (Czech: Praha hlavní nádraží), which opened in 1909. The project will preserve and reinterpret modernist architectural elements, such as the distinctive striped floor. The centerpiece will be a space with an open wooden canopy supported by slender columns with organic, funnel-shaped capitals. This wooden structure will allow for a new organization of the station area, providing views of the nearby park and the Fantova building. Raising the flat, openwork roof 13.8 meters above the terminal level will allow for the addition of a streetcar stop, replacing the current parking lot and steel structure.
Nový Hlavák in Prague - diagram of the roof structure
©Henning Larsen Architects
sustainable development
and integration with the surroundings
The revitalized park will be divided into various zones - a cultural zone, a recreational zone and an area with a transfer plaza, which will allow for events such as Christmas markets, as well as become a space for relaxation, such as picnics. The project includes the preservation of existing trees and the planting of native plant species.
Nový Hlavák in Prague. The revitalized park will be divided into various zones - cultural, recreational, and an area with an interchange plaza, which will enable the organization of various events, visualization
©Vivid Vision
In addition, Nový Hlavák places special emphasis on low-emission transportation and micromobility, promoting the use of public transportation, bicycles and walking. The station will be connected to a planned network of bicycle paths, providing easy access to the station and parking spaces for bicycles, supporting Prague's plans to reduce carbon emissions.
Nový Hlavák in Prague - view of the facade, visualization
©Henning Larsen Architects
A project that creates living space
Henning Larsen Architects and Ramboll have created a project that will not only improve transportation, but also become a vibrant meeting and activity point for residents and tourists alike. Nový Hlavák is a space that aims to introduce sustainable solutions that foster a better, greener and more sustainable urban life.
Elaborated: Anastazja Dżupina
Illustrations provided courtesy of Henning Larsen Architects.
