VÄ›ra Machoninová / Vladimir Machonin / Klaus Pätzmann: Embassy of Czechoslovakia, East Berlin (today: Embassy of the Czech Republic), 1972D–1978
- Berlin, Germany, Show on map
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The structure of the building is of monolithic concrete with exposed expressive elements. Notable in particular is a high concrete grille above the first floor halls, which protrudes into the exterior arrangement. These expressive horizontal arrangements were typically used by the architects in the 1960’s, however the materials used in this building were different opposed to their other projects - Liberec granite and glass. Despite that the embassy creates probably the most austere impression of all the Machonins’ implemented buildings and is the most sharp edged. The interior, including the original furniture, was designed with regard for each specific space and the purpose for which it was intended.
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Since reunification, there has been a dispute in Berlin about whether the building should be demolished, left as it is or renovated. For a long time, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic planned a new building on the same site, until resistance arose in Czech society, because Brutalism has been considered a national cultural heritage in the Czech Republic for several years. Today, the building is in use and largely in its original state (last updated on November 22, 2024).