Libor Hrdousek & Radek Lampa (Atelier 15)

Crystal

Prague - Czech Republic - 2015

The Crystal office building has been the shimmering crown jewel of Prague’s Vinohrady district, the popular residential and business area, since 2015. A look at its glazed façade reveals custom-made Reynaers Aluminium ElementFaçade 86 solutions all over in a chessboard-like pattern.

The Crystal is both as remarkable as it is functional. With two very different streets on either side, Atelier 15 Architects made sure the tall structure was adapted to its surroundings as best as possible. When you look from the side, it is clear both streets’ original outlook remain the same thanks to the building’s bent, asymmetrical shape. Visit the Crystal’s multiple levels of office space on either side, or stroll by the five retail units on the main building’s ground floor.

CW 86 Standard Façades and CW 86-EF Façades - Office building Crystal located in Prague, Czech Republic

Custom-made elements were needed to finish the Crystal’s façade, so Reynaers Aluminium provided bespoke curtain wall solutions based on 3D models.

Crystal clear curtain wall solutions

But what makes the Crystal stand out the most? For us, it is its chessboard-patterned façade. Alternating clear-glazed windows and aluminium panels cover the office tower, resulting in its namesake crystalline look. “Clarity and light are central themes to this project. When you walk around the outside of the building, the reflected and refracted light gives an impression of movement,” says architect Libor Hrdoušek.