Case Study on: Prague - Dancing House

Built during 1992-1996 this modern structure sits in a prime position by the Vltava River in New Town Prague 2 Czech Republic. It is surrounded by traditionally designed buildings and historic architecture Neo-Baroque, Neo-Gothic and Art Nouveau buildings for which Prague is famous. This piece of deconstructive architecture has certainly drawn attention and had been considered as controversial at the time of it's unveiling as its unusual shape and technical solutions caused a big public debate. After ten years emotions are over, and the house has its place in modern Prague. In my opinion it somehow seems to have an interesting effect with the surrounding architecture. Many describe the structure to resemble a couple dancing together. Its facade is primarily glass and steel truss supports, construction is from 99 concrete panels each of different shape and dimension, each therefore requiring a unique wooden form. Originally the site was occupied by a house in the Neo-renaissance style from the end of the 19th century. That house was destroyed during bombing in 1945, its remains finally removed in 1960.It was orginally intended to be used as a cultural centre but it was insuccessful as it is situated next to a very busy road it depends on forced air circulation, making the interior somewhat less pleasant for its occupants. On the roof is a French restaurant with magnificent views of the city. The building's other tenants include several multinational firms.


References:

http://www.pragueexperience.com/places
http://www.prague.net/dancing-house
http://www.galinsky.com/buildings/dancinghouse/index.htm

http://www.wikipedia.org