The concept was based on the respect for the historical building and it pursues a major effort to preserve the castle’s authentic character. The palace gained an attractive sightseeing route that allows the visitors to learn about the building history and enjoy the views from the footbridges on the upper levels of the castle that once used to be a roof. The contemporary architecture does not compete with the historical building, rather it creates a cohesive unit in which all the elements, old and new go hand in hand.

Helfštýn Castle Palace, Czech Republic - Photo © BoysPlayNice

In order to immerse the visitors in the historical development of the original renaissance palace new sightseeing routes have been inserted into the existing gaps in the ruins, connecting the ground floor with the newly accessible higher levels of the palace.

Helfštýn Castle Palace, Czech Republic - Photo © BoysPlayNice

Newly added contemporary elements are clearly recognizable in the historical construction. “We worked with three basic materials, one for each level of the building. The roofing is made of glass on steel beams, the staircases and footbridges have been made of corten steel and the ground floor paths are made of polished concrete”.

Helfštýn Castle Palace, Czech Republic - Photo © BoysPlayNice

Photo credits: BoysPlayNice

Helfštýn Castle Palace, Czech Republic - Photo © BoysPlayNice