Concert Hall, Karlovy Vary, CZ

Architect: Petr Hájek
Text: Eszter Götz
Photos: Benedikt Markel, Pavel Nasadil, Petr Polák

Originally built in 1895 as a masterpiece of spa innovation, the Imperial Spa has been reborn as a vibrant cultural landmark. At its heart lies a modern “music machine,” inspired by the historic “peat machine” once integral to the building’s design. Suspended on six legs within the restored atrium, the multifunctional hall balances reverence for history with cutting-edge adaptability. This self-supporting structure is a marvel of acoustic and spatial transformation. Rotating panels, retractable sound reflectors, and resonant wooden surfaces adjust effortlessly to suit various events, from concerts to conferences. Bathed in a rich red hue reminiscent of historic theatre curtains, the hall exudes both warmth and drama. Preserving the original architecture while introducing a bold, reversible intervention, the project ensures the Imperial Spa’s legacy endures, reimagined as a space for creativity, connection, and cultural vibrancy.