Dvory builds on the industrial heritage of Vysočany, transforming a former industrial site into a vibrant urban neighbourhood for two thousand residents. A city of short distances brings together living, working and leisure within a network of streets, squares and open courtyards. Each block has its own distinct character, inspired by the history of the site, while together they form a diverse yet cohesive Prague neighbourhood.
Vysočany is one of Prague’s neighbourhoods that underwent rapid development with growing industrialisation during the first half of the 20th century. A hundred years later, it is searching for a new identity. People will replace abandoned industrial halls, entirely new connections will emerge and the area will be transformed. The new Dvory neighbourhood will become a vibrant place where living, working and leisure come together. It will be home to two thousand residents across all generations. The urban design is based on the principle of a city of short distances. The masterplan was developed by the internationally renowned practice of urbanist Jan Gehl. The project was further developed in consultation with David Sim and his team at Softer. The design draws on the traditional vocabulary of the city: streets, squares, blocks, houses, courtyards and gardens. The boundary between the courtyard and the street is open, allowing the inner courtyard to become part of residents’ everyday lives and helping to foster a sense of community.
The northern edge of the site is defined by the railway, providing an excellent connection to the city centre, which can be reached in just seven minutes. The railway corridor cannot be built on, ensuring uninterrupted views from the apartments facing the tracks. The other edge is formed by K Žižkovu Street, currently a busy through road. All blocks lining the street will have active commercial ground floors facing the public space, transforming the street into an urban boulevard.
The identity of the site is shaped by the history of industrial Vysočany during the First Czechoslovak Republic, including the former coffee-roasting plant and the warehouses of the Včela wholesale company. A wide range of goods was once traded here, from food to tools. The architectural character of each block is inspired by a particular type of product: spices, herbs, wine, coffee, beer, baked goods or metal. The buildings are designed in a palette of pastel tones. The softness and tonal harmony of the rendered façades create a calm and coherent environment. The architectural language is based on the window, wall, column and cornice – elements deeply rooted in Prague’s urban fabric for centuries. Just as each block has its own character, so does each courtyard. The paving materials and planting scheme vary from block to block, reflecting the colours of the individual façades.
