Prague 10 square to get major overhaul as winning design is unveiled

After the recent transformation of Prague's Jiřího z Poděbrad Square, another of the city's well-known public spaces is set for a major redesign. Prague 10 has unveiled the winning proposal to revitalize Svatopluk Čech Square in Vršovice, promising a greener, cooler, and more welcoming square for residents.

The design was selected from 21 entries in an architectural competition and aims to improve pedestrian movement while creating more space for everyday community life. The district estimates the project will cost around CZK 300 million, excluding VAT, although construction is still several steps away.

District officials emphasized that choosing a winning proposal does not mean the final design has been approved.

"The announcement of the winning proposal is not a decision on the final form of the square or the start of construction," Prague 10 Mayor Martin Valovič said. "Instead, it opens the door to further professional and public discussion."

The winning design, created by Prague-based architectural studio ra15, places greenery at the center of the redevelopment while strengthening the square's role as a neighborhood gathering place.

Plans include a new central plaza beside the tram stops, complete with a water feature designed to help cool the area during summer heat. The proposal also features a café, public restrooms, and facilities for a park manager responsible for overseeing maintenance and security.

According to the competition jury, the design strikes a balance between landscaped green space and paved areas that can accommodate markets, cultural events, and everyday public life.

Landscape architect and jury member Michal Marcinov said the proposal creates a connected system of new trees rather than isolated plantings, improving biodiversity, rainwater management, and shade. He said the additional tree cover could make the square several degrees cooler during hot summer days.

Svatopluk Čech Square surrounds the functionalist Church of St. Wenceslas between Moskevská and Slovinská streets in Vršovice. Designed by renowned Czech architect Josef Gočár and completed in 1930, the church is considered one of the country's most important examples of functionalist architecture.

The jury said the winning proposal successfully preserves the square's park-like character while making it a more active public space.

Architect Norbert Schmidt, who advised the competition, said the design complements Gočár's original vision by creating a small piazza opposite the church's entrance, providing a natural place for residents to meet, relax, and spend time together.

The proposal will now undergo further refinement through expert review and public consultation before the district decides on the final design and construction schedule.