In the center of Ostrava, the reconstruction of the so-called Ostrava skyscraper has begun

Ostrava – In the center of the regional capital, the reconstruction of the so-called Ostrava Skyscraper on Ostrčilova Street has begun. By 2029, the currently unused high-rise building, constructed in the second half of the 1960s, will be transformed into a residence with 111 apartments. The reconstruction, which will cost over 800 million crowns, is being carried out according to the design of architect Eva Jiřičná. The project also includes the modification of the surroundings. City representatives, architectural offices, and investors shared this information with reporters today.

The building currently stands at 68 meters tall and is the third tallest structure in the city; after reconstruction, it will reach a height of 73 meters. The 24-story building will offer apartments ranging from 30 to over 200 m², and a parking garage with 185 spaces will be constructed nearby. Prices for the apartments will range from 3.5 million crowns to 38 million crowns, depending on the floor and layout. There will be two duplex apartments on the last two floors. So far, 25 apartments have been reserved.

"I am convinced that this project will contribute to the further development of the city center of Ostrava, while also helping to meet the demand for attractive housing that we perceive in Ostrava. Last but not least, it is very pleasant that the reconstruction itself carefully considers energy efficiency and sustainability," said Mayor Jan Dohnal.

Apartments will be available in layouts from 1+kk to 4+kk. "The balconies designed in greenery are unique, and will be maintained by an integrated self-watering system," added Dohnal. According to him, the building will become a new landmark for the city after reconstruction.

The investor of the construction is the company First Skyscraper, with whom the city signed a contract for the sale of the land and building in 2024. The city received 55 million crowns for them. "We want the Ostrava Skyscraper to once again become a symbol of modern Ostrava, showing that a thoughtful reconstruction can combine respect for history with long-term value for the city and its residents," stated the company's managing director, Jakub Blaťák.

The Ostrava Skyscraper was built according to the design of Jan Slezák from 1965 to 1968 as part of the Jindřiška housing estate. Originally serving as a residential building, it was converted into an office building after a few years. Due to technical issues, the building has been empty since 2013. City officials debated its future for a long time, and demolition was even threatened. The building's main shortcomings were a non-functional facade and inadequate safety parameters.

The architectural design of the reconstruction was created by the studio AI-DESIGN under the leadership of Jiřičná and architect Petr Vágner. "I am really extraordinarily touched to be here for the symbolic start of a new journey. I would like to thank the city for deciding not to demolish this building, but to reconstruct it," Jiřičná said during the ceremonial start of the reconstruction.

According to her, every reconstruction is a dialogue with what already exists. "We are trying to give this building a new life and we aim to bring joy back to the city of Ostrava through this building," said the architect. She added that the effort was to make the tower not appear as a closed entity but as a natural part of the city.

The city first selected the investor for the reconstruction in 2022, but the interested party did not sign contracts for the purchase of the property. Consequently, the city sought a new one, and the municipal authority announced the intent to sell the building in October 2023. Two interested parties submitted offers.