Prior department store, Brno

Date: 1974-1984

Architects: Zdeněk Řihák, Zdeněk Sklepek, Jan Melichar

In the 1970s, Brno needed modern business premises, which led to the construction of the Prior department store, an architectural masterpiece in the Brutalist style. The original ambitious plans to expand the city southwards were thwarted by the occupation in 1968, so only a smaller version of the project was realised. Prior opened in 1984 and met all the requirements for retail space at the time. The building is noted for its massive concrete structure and sculptural detailing on the upper floors. Today it no longer meets the needs of modern commerce and is awaiting demolition.