BRNO

Even a city best known for its 1930s functionalist architecture holds surprising examples of later design. Raw concrete is rare in Brno, and its finest brutalist landmark — the Dornych department store (formerly Prior) — is currently being demolished. What remains? Discover lesser-known buildings alongside the ART BEHIND THE GLASS pop-up exhibition.

VAVAVOOM PERFUMERY, Pavlína Kvita

"WHITE AMPHORA"
polished artificial stone, steel
displayed in the window of Vavavoom, Radnická 9, Brno
the work is complemented by a multi-tiered pedestal measuring one metre in height
(available for purchase)


Pigmentarium and Vavavoom Perfumery present Pavlína Kvita as part of ART BEHIND THE GLASS — an artistic project accompanying the launch of the new fragrance, BRUTAL.

Pavlína Kvita — A graduate of the Sculpture Studio led by Lukáš Rittstein at the Academy of Fine Arts in Prague, Pavlína Kvita works primarily within the framework of freestanding sculpture. The plinth, often overlooked, plays an integral role in her creations and has become a signature element of her visual language. The two works selected for ART BEHIND THE GLASS — "White Amphora" and "Aiming" — are both accompanied by sculptural stands, further emphasizing her approach. Kvita’s themes frequently revolve around animal forms and fragmented torsos, expressed through flowing, refined lines. Her chosen materials — concrete and artificial stone — have become emblematic of her work. Cast in liquid form into moulds based on her original models, they define the tactile and visual essence of her sculptures. Pavlína Kvita currently works out of the PRÁM studio in Prague.

Ingstav

1970, Vídeňská 546/55, Brno

The Ingstav office building continues to impress with its striking contrasts. A delicate glass façade with rounded corners evokes the elegance of functionalism—architect Ivan Ruller designed it as a double skin to reduce street noise in the offices. Raw concrete elements provide balance, visible in the sculptural relief by the entrance and the dramatic external staircase. The top floor, designed as a representational space, gently recedes, crowned by rhythmic aluminum louvers. What makes the building especially valuable are its refined details, remarkably preserved and not buried under layers of signage.

Vinařská Dormitories

1982, Vinařská 471/5a, Brno

The Brno Exhibition Grounds are home to some remarkable architecture, including examples inspired by brutalism—but accessing them within the closed area can be difficult. Just nearby, however, stand the more accessible Vinařská university dormitories, designed by architect Zdeněk Kříž. While the residential blocks themselves are not particularly original, the central buildings, especially the canteen, are far more striking. A monumental staircase leads to it, offering a great view of the concrete sculpture Prometheus.

Zvonařka Central Bus Station

1985, Zvonařka x Trnitá, Brno

Concrete and steel. The defining feature of Brno’s Zvonařka Central Bus Station is its monumental platform canopy, designed by structural engineer Radúz Russ. A bold steel frame supports a massive concrete slab, edged with signature prefabricated panels that embody the essence of pure brutalism. For years, the station stood as a neglected remnant of 1980s architecture—underappreciated and worn. Recently, however, it underwent a thoughtful renovation that brought its most valuable original elements back to life.