Awarded 2nd place in an architectural competition, the proposal for the revitalisation of the PRIOR department store in Most reimagines the existing modernist landmark as an open, multifunctional centre for public life.

The design is based on eight principles that define PRIOR’s future use — from continuous 24/7 activity and the synergy of education, sports and culture, to urban connectivity, sustainability and architectural quality. Together, these principles shape PRIOR as a living urban organism rather than simply a revitalised building in the city centre.

Alongside a new glazed façade layer conceived as a transparent urban filter inspired by the industrial landscape of Most, the proposal preserves the building’s original massing and structural logic. The composition works with a clear relationship between the main volume and its plinth, while opening the south-east corner towards the Square of the Great Most Strike strengthens the building’s connection to public space and establishes a new urban dialogue. The ground floor and first floor remain open and permeable, reinforcing continuity of public life.

The proposal also rethinks the interior and service structure of the building, transforming it into a multifunctional public environment with a gastro zone, cultural centre, multiplex cinema and music club — responding to the changing needs of the city.

The lower levels concentrate public and community life, combining gastronomy and cinema with move & dance studios, children’s activities and spaces for leisure and informal gathering. Upper floors are designed flexibly to accommodate coworking, offices or residential use, including up to 38 apartments. An important part of the proposal is also a green inner courtyard conceived as a calm centre of gravity for the entire building.

The competition proposal transforms PRIOR from a former department store into a living urban organism — a place for encounter, culture, work and everyday life.

The competition entry was developed in collaboration with Baumschlager Eberle Architekten.