Mercury Transport and Shopping Centre
The transport and shopping centre in České Budějovice combines a bus station, a shopping centre and links to other modes of transport in a single compact urban complex.
The bus platforms are located on the roof of the building, while the lower levels house retail and provide a direct pedestrian connection towards the railway station. The project thus concentrates pedestrian, car, bus and rail traffic and functions as an important interchange on the boundary between the inner city and the periphery.
In urban terms, it responds to the fragmented structure of its surroundings and seeks to unify it with a distinctive monoblock that combines two main functions, transport and retail. The heavier base is complemented by lighter architectural elements, giving the large building a more legible scale and expression.
| Client |
CB – Mercury Center a.s. |
|---|---|
| Design team |
Martin Krupauer |
Urban Design
The block-based urbanism required the fragmented structure of the place to be made whole again. The surrounding plots were developed gradually and reflect various architectural styles, while the adjoining industrial zone no longer has such a clearly defined urban concept.
The building can be understood as a city-forming element on the boundary between the inner city and the periphery.
Architectural Concept
The architecture is defined by a monoblock and composed of lightweight elements on a heavy base. Architecturally, it combines two main functions: transport and retail.
The main pedestrian routes are located inside the building. The exterior space is reserved for bus traffic, deliveries, entrances to the underground car park and fire escape routes.
Project Awards
- PRESTA South Bohemia 2006–2008 Award for a new building in a historic setting
