Zlín University is completing the reconstruction of the auditorium, the author is Eva Jiřičná

Zlín - Tomas Bata University in Zlín (UTB) is completing the reconstruction of the Academia center auditorium in the Faculty of Management and Economics building on Mostní Street. "Last week was the inspection; now operational tests of all facilities are being conducted, there is complicated audiovisual equipment and other things here," said UTB's bursar Alexander Černý to journalists today. The tests should be completed in a month. If the situation allows, a ceremonial gathering for the 20th anniversary of UTB should be held in the auditorium on December 15, after which the venue should be regularly used for academic ceremonies or conferences. Architect Eva Jiřičná, who designed the new form of the auditorium, inspected the space today.

"The most important thing is for those who will sit here and listen to feel good. There must be seats from which everything can be seen comfortably. During the graduations, relatives will sit here and watch how their children succeed in life. The whole matter was conceived to create a background for the speakers, who are those who will be awarding diplomas, those who will observe, and the students," Jiřičná told journalists today.

The main color of the hall is gray, and the seats are in orange, which is also the university's color. According to her, the color should elevate the mind. "Architects should do something for joy; they often lean toward gray and black. I have already come to the conclusion that it is better to use colors," Jiřičná stated. During today's inspection day, only minor details were addressed, according to her words.

Jiřičná has already designed the Educational Complex for UTB and is also the author of the nearby congress and university center. "After 53 years in England, Zlín is my hometown. I am really proud to have been born here and to be able to return here. I consider it a fortune that I had the opportunity in my life to 'do something' here," Jiřičná stated. The university has been collaborating with her for 20 years. "We are very satisfied with her work, and we are proud to showcase her architecture in Zlín," said UTB rector Vladimír Sedlařík.

The auditorium has served for over 25 years. The reconstruction of the auditorium, foyer, restrooms, technical facilities, and buffet began this January. The main reason for closing the auditorium was deficiencies in fire safety regulations. "Everything has been renovated from the roof to the basement; everything is new," said the bursar. Costs amounted to 90 million crowns, and UTB financed the reconstruction from its own resources.