Situated next to the Vlatava River in Holesovice, 'Personalaks' is a social housing scheme that proposes a new low-rise, high density solution in Prague’s housing landscape. The scheme adapts to residents' changing needs whilst providing room for personalisation and self expression.
The basis of the project stems from earlier research on pánelaks (panel flats), which are communist tower blocks built during the 1960s to meet rising housing demands due to urbanisation. Through this research, it was found that beyond the pánelaks' ubiquitous façades, the buildings are full of individuality, life and community.
Hence, in response, this project is designed with the intention of creating a home for life which can be inhabited by people of all ages, whilst fostering a community through shared social spaces between homes.
Spatial investigation exploring the experiences and interactions of characters in the film Panel Story (1980) shape the architecture.
An integrated landscape indicating how the housing units are modulated across the scheme.
Landscape and water features between the housing act as a catalyst for social interactions.