Modular Research Centre
Architect: CHYBIK + KRISTOF, KOMA Modular
Location: Vizovice, Czech Republic
Type: Modular Research Centre
Year: 2022
Photographs: Jesús Granada, Alex Shoots Buildings, Julius Filip, Pavel Barták
Following their first collaboration in 2007, CHYBIK + KRISTOF and KOMA Modular conclude their collective work on the Modular Research Centre, showcasing an innovative use of modular structures by altering conventional systems. Pushing the boundaries of standard modular architecture, the new research centre creates transparency and openness within the local community while serving as a think-tank presenting new concepts and possibilities of modular buildings.
The following description is courtesy of the architects. CHYBIK + KRISTOF (CHK) announce the completion of
the newly designed Modular Research Centre with KOMA Modular, a Czech module manufacturer,
located in Vizovice, Czech Republic. Latest in a series of collaborations, the recently completed 170 m²
research centre acts as a think-tank – an innovative space to challenge and expand on existing notions
of modular construction. Situated at the edge of the KOMA complex, the new research centre carefully
integrates the factory into its surrounding environment while creating a large semi-public social gathering
square contributing to the employees’ liveliness and progressive working culture. The one-story building
allows passers-by to view the factory from the street level, further enhancing an accessible, transparent,
barrier-free area.
The partnership between CHK and KOMA began in 2014 by creating a master plan for the entrance and
public area consisting of three modular buildings. The master plan demonstrates a strategic configuration
design of the factory’s entrance, expanding on public space, in which each structure unveils modular
versatility. Following the completion of the Modular Cafeteria in May 2014, CHK designed the Czech
pavilion at EXPO 2015 in Milan, which was later converted into an office building for KOMA. The newly
completed research centre (2022) presents the third and final modular design, rooted in the concept of rotated containers functioning as columns, enabling an architectural malleable space to further expand
on the notions of modular architecture.
Set to become an innovation hub for the factory complex to develop and explore new undiscovered building methods with modules, the research centre forms an adaptable system that can meet multipurpose needs. Acting as an idea generator, the building is an important meeting place for all professionals to create innovative and special products, consequently becoming a default gathering point and evolution center for the future of modularity. Keeping in mind the structure’s principal function, it is further underlying the vital element of transparency reflected in its building. Creating a complex that is open and welcoming to the local community confidently reflects on the principle of new concepts envisioned to form inside the rotated containers of the building.
Created as a prototype of a new and adaptable modular system, the research center underlines the studio’s dedication to expanding the limitations of modular architecture and engaging in supporting local communities. Putting the focus on crafting new shapes offering unrestrained modularity and showcasing
an innovative system of multifunctional modular shapes, the studio is purposely shifting old paradigms
and expanding on the typical rectangular construction to foster a transparent working environment.
Bypassing the restriction of the customary use of right-angled units placed side by side, the research
centre varies from a standard model in the basic re-imagination of the use of modular structures, making
it a user-friendly model for the future of modular architecture.
Containing three main module elements, the floor, the container, and the roof units, the composed space
creates a new unique system – spatial units containing the facilities are leveled onto the planar flooring
modules, which are anchored to the foundation, functioning as columns. Placed in between the containers and the roof, vast window surfaces draw in an abundance of light, keeping the workplace open and connected to the exterior space.
The juxtaposition of the main modules and glass surfaces forms an all-inclusive spacious open area
dedicated to horizontal and vertical working spaces. The area itself is entirely flexible, avoiding negative
aspects of large open space offices, and can be readjusted to meet the specific needs of any project,
forming multiple adaptable and individual workstations. As a natural continuation of the modularity
concept, the furniture design allows the office equipment to be supplemented, changed, and adapted
to new needs over time – pieces of equipment can be customized simply by re-connecting the elements.
Building materials further aid in reflecting and understanding the innovative modular concept of the
research centre, with its perforated surface and visible details used to the maximum extent in their natural
form. As a material that KOMA manufactures and uses daily, aluminum was a clear choice for the
complex, aiding the understanding of modular build principles easily.
CHK encourages further expansion and research of modular architecture and emphasizes its importance, “As the emerging trajectory for modular architecture and technologies continue to advance, we have
positioned our capabilities in this area at the forefront of innovation to create promising solutions towards a future that we believe lies in modular architecture.”
Project Credits
- Project Team: Ondřej Chybík, Michal Krištof, Ondřej Mundl, Lukáš Habrovec, Martin Holý, Michal Klimeš, Dávid Medzihorský, Vojtěch Kouřil, David Bernátek, Petr Novák, Vladimír Šobich, Přemek Zhoř
- Landscape architecture: Atelier zahradní a krajinářské architektury Sendler
- Technical solutions: Jiří Valenta, Oldřich Studený, Petr Chval
- Photo credits: Jesús Granada, Alex Shoots Buildings, Julius Filip, Pavel Barták
- Illustrations: Alexey Klyuykov, CHYBIK + KRISTOF
