KUMST

KUMST is a creative center in the city of Brno, dedicated to the development of the local creative community. Initiated and operated by the South Moravian Innovation Center (JIC), the hub acts as an accelerator for small and medium-sized businesses, while also offering offices and studios for rent.

The design challenge was not only to adapt the existing building to a new function that encourages interaction, but also to introduce new typologies of shared spaces where the community can meet and collaborate. Given the tight budget, most finishes and infrastructure were left untouched, apart from a complete upgrade of the electrical system. The focus of the intervention was on opening up spaces, highlighting key architectural moments, and removing non-original materials and structures.

For example, the travertine columns in the main event hall and the light-brick ceiling elements, which bring natural light into the space, had previously been concealed by a suspended gypsum ceiling. These features were restored to their original state, reinforcing the building’s architectural identity.

Upon entering KUMST, visitors are welcomed by an open, multifunctional hall that faces the street through large mirrored and tinted windows—distinctive elements of the original building. These were further emphasized by integrating the project’s logo into each window, with letters that change color depending on the events taking place inside. Visible from the outside, the space functions as a showroom for design, art, fashion, and other creative disciplines represented within the incubator.

The two inner courtyards were activated through the opening of a side passage directly connected to the main street. Wooden platforms were introduced to level the ground, along with integrated seating elements, allowing these spaces to function as extensions of the interior. They now host events such as food and fashion fairs, strengthening the relationship between the building and the public realm.

The building at Údolní 19 is a landmark property in Brno, originally built in 1929 by architect Vinzenz Baier. It has served multiple functions over time, including administrative offices, a cinema, a canteen, and later the seat of the Faculty of Fine Arts. Today, it offers approximately 4,000 m² of floor space across two buildings and four levels.