Ondrej Chybik of the Czech studio {tag:pracownie} , in conversation with Marta Kulawik, talks about design in a time of transition - about the challenges architects face and the roles they play. Also about environmental awareness, the importance of revitalization, and the transformation of architecture and the way we think about it.
Ondrej CHYBIK - Born in 1985 in Brno, he studied architecture and urban planning at the Technical University inBrno, Czech Republic (Brno University of Technology), in Graz, Austria (TU Graz) and in Zurich, Switzerland (ETH Zurich). In 2010, he founded CHYBIK + KRISTOF studio together with Michal Krištof. The studio currently operates branches in Brno, Prague, Bratislava, and most recently in London. It works with more than 70 architects and focuses on transformational projects, from single buildings to master plans.
Marta Kulawik: We would like to introduce our readers to a project for the reconstruction and renovation of the Brutalist Zvonařka bus station in Brno. You were the initiator of the renovation of the existing architectural fabric.
Ondrej Chybik: This is one of our most influential works, especially here in Brno, where our headquarters is located. I am well acquainted with the Zvonařka bus station, as a student I spent many hours there, waiting for various connections. To this day it remains the largest covered public space in Brno, and as the largest bus station it serves both local and international routes. Even then, I was convinced that such an important piece of public infrastructure and iconic architecture deserved to be revitalized and redesigned for modern functions. The condition of the bus station was not the best, especially after its privatization. That's when we decided to contact the new owner and start a conversation about what could be done. We developed and presented a study and a new design, and made it available to residents to provoke a conversation about the future of the station. The proposal quickly attracted media attention. This led to an impassioned four-year discussion between private stakeholders and public authorities, which ultimately helped the owners obtain financial support from the European Commission.
Zvonařka Bus Station in Brno - the state of the station before revitalization
Photo: Alex Shoots Buildings © Illustrations courtesy of CHYBIK + KRISTOF studio
Marta Kulawik: Other important Czech buildings were not so lucky, such as the Praha Hotel and the Transgas headquarters, which were demolished. What was the reason for the abandonment of the Brno train station's brutalist building?
Ondrej Chybik: Unfortunately, many icons from that era were demolished, and the future of many of them remains uncertain. Unlike some of these buildings, which are often viewed by the public as relics of the past or non-functional due to their technical condition, Zvonařka continued to fulfill its role as an important transportation hub, even when it was in less than ideal condition. This continuity and purpose made a strong argument for its renovation. In this context, we focused not only on restoring the building and preserving its historical context, but also on modernizing it to meet modern needs as an essential part of Brno's public infrastructure.
The Zvonařka Bus Station in Brno - the revitalization of the station refreshed its external appearance, but did not deprive it of its original character and most distinctive elements
Photo: Alex Shoots Buildings © Illustrations courtesy of CHYBIK + KRISTOF studio
Marta Kulawik: Who was the most difficult to convince of the idea?
Ondrej Chybik: The private owners of the terminal were initially unsure of the direction we wanted to take. This hesitation was understandable, given the high cost anticipated for the project. They needed assurances of the cultural and public value of the revitalization and the opportunity to balance, to some extent, their commercial interests. The involvement of public authorities also involved dialogue, the idea being to emphasize the common goal of preserving the structure as an important part of Brno's architectural heritage. It was a process of building trust and presenting a clear vision that eventually drew in all parties.
The Zvonařka Bus Station in Brno - the station's canopy and structure were painted a light color, making the whole look light, modern and fresh
Photo: Alex Shoots Buildings © Illustrations courtesy of CHYBIK + KRISTOF studio
Marta Kulawik: What arguments determined the fate of the Zvonařka bus station in Brno?
Ondrej Chybik: The significance of the station as an important public infrastructure and a key element of architectural heritage was decisive in the discussion. But in the end, it was financial support from the European Union that transformed the vision into reality - providing the resources to carry out the revitalization.
Zvonařka Bus Station in Brno
Photo: Alex Shoots Buildings © Illustrations courtesy of studio CHYBIK + KRISTOF
Marta Kulawik: The building was built in 1988 to a design by Radúz Russ. What elements of the original did you want to preserve and emphasize?
Ondrej Chybik: The striking brutalist and high-tech canopy was by far the most important element. Its design, allowing buses to park on the roof, was a bold solution when it was built. Our goal was to clean and restore the structure while preserving its iconic form, and at the same time create a brighter and friendlier space for commuters. We cleaned the structure, painted it white and carefully integrated custom-designed canopy lighting. It illuminates both the space below and the roof itself - brightening the area and creating a floating effect that emphasizes the canopy's bold architectural expression.
The Zvonařka Bus Station in Brno - the original design of the Zvonařka Bus Station in 1984.
© Illustrations courtesy of CHYBIK + KRISTOF studio
Marta Kulawik: But something had to be removed. What was demolished and why? How did this affect the functioning of the building?
Ondrej Chybik: We aimed to simplify the layout, restore the form of the station and improve its efficiency and accessibility. Over the years, a number of irrelevant structures and temporary elements (for example, commercial establishments) were built in and around the station, many of which created visual clutter and barriers that limited the functionality of the space. These additions did not contribute to the structural integrity or safety of the building, instead they hindered passenger accessibility and navigation. After careful analysis, we decided to remove them, opening up the space, improving flow and creating a more welcoming environment for passengers.
Zvonařka Bus Station in Brno - the station's canopy and structure were painted in a light color, making the whole look light, modern and fresh
Photo: Alex Shoots Buildings © Illustrations courtesy of CHYBIK + KRISTOF studio
Marta Kulawik: Often the argument for demolishing, for example, socialist realist buildings, is the lower cost of putting something up from scratch than expanding and bringing what already exists up to current standards. How was it in this case?
Ondrej Chybik: In this case, no. Renovating the existing structure was not only cost-effective, but also more sustainable and in line with its architectural value. The main new additions we proposed, such as lighting and a pavilion with waiting rooms and a ticket office, were relatively inexpensive compared to demolishing and rebuilding the entire structure from scratch.
Marta Kulawik: Would the persuasion and discussions look the same now, or has something changed in the mentality and awareness of architects and users? The fate of the building was decided a decade ago, and the revitalization turned out to be one of the most spectacular in our part of Europe in recent years.
Ondrej Chybik: Talking about historic preservation is probably easier today for several reasons. There is a growing awareness in Central Europe of the importance of protecting buildings from that era. Public opposition, such as the recent debate over the proposed restoration of the Brutalist part of Prague's Central Station, where much of the structure was originally slated for demolition, shows how much people value this architectural heritage. Growing environmental awareness is also important. Since the construction industry contributes significantly to pollution, preserving, adapting and reusing existing structures has become a priority for architects. This is especially true of buildings of historical significance, though not exclusively.
Zvonařka Bus Station in Brno - axonometry
Photo: Alex Shoots Buildings © Illustrations courtesy of CHYBIK + KRISTOF studio.
Marta Kulawik: Should the emphasis on transformation rather than creation be part of a breakthrough in the approach to sustainable design?
Ondrej Chybik: Yes, adapting and transforming existing structures is key to reducing waste and preserving existing heritage.
Marta Kulawik: In this issue of AiB, we focus on the theme of "breakthrough times." What are the determinants of design in these watershed times?
Ondrej Chybik: What matters to me is how we deal with the challenges of today's world. The basis of our work is to focus on environmental awareness, adaptive reuse and transformative design. But it's not just about building form, it's also about engaging with the community and considering broader social impact. Architects should no longer simply impose a vision based on aesthetics or function. Instead, we must work collaboratively, be in constant dialogue with all stakeholders to ensure both the success and longevity of the project.
Zvonařka Bus Station in Brno
Photo credit: Alex Shoots Buildings © Illustrations courtesy of studio CHYBIK + KRISTOF
Marta Kulawik: How do you implement these assumptions?
Ondrej Chybik: This approach was key in the work on Zvonařka. We try to apply this philosophy in all projects, even when we are not the initiators. In each project, we focus on how it integrates with the environment and what value it brings to users.
A good example is the Jihlava Multipurpose Arena project, a new field hockey field in the city of Jihlava, whose construction is scheduled for completion this fall. The unique location - in the center of the city, right next to the historic main square - significantly influenced our design approach. To respect the context and serve the community, we divided functions into multiple structures and prioritized the creation of public spaces. The design promotes openness, strengthens the connection to the neighborhood and allows people to move seamlessly through the public spaces that are an integral part of the city center.
Zvonařka Bus Station in Brno
Photo credit: Alex Shoots Buildings © Illustrations courtesy of studio CHYBIK + KRISTOF
Marta Kulawik: When was the turning point in your thinking and design?
Ondrej Chybik: I wouldn't say there was one turning point. Since the founding of our studio fifteen years ago, the journey has been a series of steps and milestones, each of which has shaped the way we think and design. Each completed project has been significant, teaching us not only through the act of creation, but also by watching it serve its users and evolve over time. Milestones, such as wins in local and international competitions, have been transformative, but the most defining aspect remains the ongoing process of reflection and development that inspires each project.
Zvonařka Bus Station in Brno
Photo credit: Alex Shoots Buildings © Illustrations courtesy of CHYBIK + KRISTOF studio.
Marta Kulawik: I once heard an opinion that one of the biggest obstacles to saving buildings from a bygone era is the egos of architects who prefer to build their monuments. Do you agree with this statement?
Ondrej Chybik: While there may still be architects who think this way, I don't think this is the crux of the problem. In most cases, the fate of a building is beyond the control of the architect. These situations are often complex, involving issues of ownership, financial viability, and - especially in our region - challenges arising from the post-privatization period. Many of these buildings are in poor condition and their standards are incompatible with modern needs, making adaptation a significant investment.
Despite this, architects can and should take a more proactive approach to preservation. By proposing innovative and feasible solutions, we have the opportunity to show how these structures can be adapted and revitalized to meet modern requirements while respecting their historical and cultural significance.
Zvonařka Bus Station in Brno - perspective
Photo: Alex Shoots Buildings © Illustrations courtesy of CHYBIK + KRISTOF studio
Marta Kulawik: Do you see any differences in the approach of architects from your generation and beginners, such as those interning at your studio?
Ondrej Chybik: For now, the age difference is not something we feel strongly about, since both Michal and I are in our thirties, and most of the team is in their twenties or thirties. However, we are noticing a growing curiosity and openness among students and younger architects joining us. We are also seeing a significant shift in their priorities - many younger architects are more environmentally conscious and eager to explore adaptive reuse opportunities. This is a promising direction for the profession, as their approach often reflects a deeper awareness of the impact of architecture. Contact with global issues and a variety of design philosophies early in education often translates into a more holistic approach to problem solving.
Marta Kulawik: Thank you for the interview!
Read more: A&B 02/2025 - TIME OF TRANSFORMATION,
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