In Ostrava, a renovation of the residential building Oblouk is being prepared

photo: Tomáš Břeský (poruba.ostrava.cz)

Ostrava – The city district of Poruba in Ostrava is preparing for the reconstruction of the Oblouk building. This cultural monument with apartments is one of the most famous buildings in the style of socialist realism. The costs for the reconstruction are estimated at 100 million crowns excluding VAT. The building permit has already been obtained by the municipal office, which would like to announce a competition for the contractor of the construction works this autumn. Repairs could begin next spring, said Jana Janošcová from the Poruba municipal office to ČTK.

Last year, the city district successfully reacquired the ownership share in the building, which was owned by the company Residomo. "In addition to the existing entrances, which were already owned by Poruba, six new ones have been added, which contain 128 apartments and nine non-residential spaces. Apart from the side entrance, which is owned by the housing cooperative, the ownership of Oblouk is now consolidated," said Deputy Mayor Petra Brodová (ANO).

According to forecasts, the reconstruction should take nearly a year. The plan includes modifications to the external part of the building and the common internal spaces. The restoration of the façade is planned, as well as the replacement of the roofing, where sheet metal will be replaced by fired ceramics, and the rehabilitation of the basement areas.

Throughout the duration of the reconstruction, alternative parking will be available. "Our goal is to restore the Oblouk its hallmark, so that after many years without investment in its appearance, it again becomes a dignified gateway to Poruba," added Brodová. Poruba intends to follow up the reconstruction of the building with adjustments to the space in front of Oblouk. Plans are in place for the renovation of sidewalks, grassy areas, and the communication in the back part of the building.

The construction of Oblouk began in June 1952 and according to period data, the building process was demanding. In December 1954, the first tenants moved into the complex. However, it was not fully completed until later. Architect Evžen Šteflíček was inspired by the building of the main headquarters on Palace Square in present-day St. Petersburg when designing Oblouk. The building in Poruba is among the most famous works of this Brno architect. Since 2008, Oblouk has been a cultural monument. It is the only building in Poruba that has even appeared on postal stamps.