The Automatic Mills Grain Silo Conversion in Pardubice, Czech Republic, is a groundbreaking adaptive reuse project by the Prague-based firm Prokš Přikryl architekti. This initiative revitalizes a century-old industrial building, transforming it into a vibrant cultural and social hub.
Automatic Mills Grain Silo Technical Information
- Architects1-19: Prokš Přikryl architekti
- Location: Automatické mlýny 1963, 530 03 Pardubice, Czech Republic
- Area: 1,848 m2
- Project Year: 2018 – 2023
- Photographs: © Petr Polák
The main purpose of the Silo conversion is its social use, which one century after its construction has replaced the previous industrial function.
– Prokš Přikryl architekti
Automatic Mills Grain Silo Conversion Photographs
Historical Significance and Architectural Vision
Originally designed by the renowned Czech architect Josef Gočár in 1909 for the Winternitz brothers, the Automatic Mills complex has been a fixture on the banks of the Chrudimka River. The grain silo, added in 1924, operated continuously for over a century before ceasing operations in 2013. The Automatic Mills Foundation, spearheaded by Lukáš Smetana and Mariana Smetanová, initiated the transformation of this industrial brownfield into a cultural district in 2016.
From 2018 to 2020, Martin Prokš and Marek Přikryl meticulously planned the conversion, culminating in its completion in 2023. The project spans a built-up area of 357 m² and a gross floor area of 1848 m², with a total cost of 3.4 million euros. The conversion integrates several key elements, including a multi-purpose upper hall, which serves as a versatile space for theatres, lectures, concerts, and social events. Additionally, a roof terrace with a bar offers panoramic views of Pardubice, while newly accessible grain bins are designed for art exhibitions. The ground floor has been transformed into a covered public space, with facilities including public toilets in the basement.
Structural and Material Integrity
The renovation respects the original architectural integrity while incorporating modern enhancements. Exposed concrete is used for structural elements, and galvanized steel is employed for stairs and doors. The project features prefabricated glass concrete floors with panels that channel light through the building. Sustainable internal insulation is achieved with Multipor calcium-silicate slabs, and geothermal heating is sourced from six 120-meter-deep boreholes. The renovation also preserves the patina and marks of the original structure to honor its industrial heritage.
The construction involved significant technical interventions, such as the creation of a waterproof exposed concrete basement to address groundwater challenges and the installation of a new elevator shaft surrounded by a steel grating staircase. Comprehensive fire safety measures include a protected Type B escape route and fire-resistant glass-concrete floor panels.
Automatic Mills Grain Silo Conversion Plans
Automatic Mills Grain Silo Conversion Image Gallery
About Prokš Přikryl architekti
Founded in 2011 by Martin Prokš and Marek Přikryl, Prokš Přikryl Architekti is a Prague-based architectural studio known for its innovative approach to adaptive reuse and design, balancing historic preservation with modern needs. Both graduates of the Czech Technical University emphasize context, concept, and program in their work, preferring layering over demolition. Their notable projects include the revitalization of Divišov Square, the conversion of the Winternitz Mills grain silo in Pardubice, and visitor facilities at Jablonec nad Nisou’s city reservoir. Their project at Honětice Biotope has won multiple awards, highlighting their commitment to excellence and respect for architectural heritage.
Notes & Additional Credits
- Author: Martin Prokš, Marek Přikryl
- Plot size: 4030 m²
- Cost: 3,4 mil. €
- Client: Automatic Mills Foundation
- Civil engineer: Jan Kolář
- Concrete structures: MDS Projekt
- Steel structures: STA-CON
- Fire safety: Projekty PO
- Ventilation: Mikroklima
- Plumbing: MK Profi
- Electrics: Miroslav Bouček
- Acoustics, A/V media: SONING
- Lighting: Ladislav Tikovský [AST]
- Measurement and regulation: TECONT
- Lift: TRAMONTÁŽ
- Geothermal boreholes: GEROTOP
- Heating: Jiří Vik
- Graphical system: Richard Wilde [publikum.design]
- Main contractor: STAKO Hradec Králové
