Matěj Bálek

advisor

VSB - Technical university of Ostrava

Czech Republic

English: We focus on architectural studies and design that connect natural inspiration, functional… more

The idea of drawing inspiration from bird nests clearly refers to a connection with natural motifs. Using nests as spaces for shopping, dining, and relaxation reflects the image of birds building their nests, where they spend a significant part of their lives. Organic architecture teaches us to seek harmony with nature and to respect its principles.

Placing the project in a coastal area makes it a very attractive location with impressive sea views. However, careful consideration should be given to its integration into the surrounding environment, particularly in relation to existing greenery or the potential lack thereof.

The proposed architecture and selected materials are elegantly integrated into the overall complex. The use of wood as a sustainable, natural, and ecological material adds value to the design. The inspiration drawn from bird nests is highly successful, and both the form and spatial layout appropriately support the overall concept of the building. However, the placement of the staircase appears somewhat unfortunate and could benefit from further reconsideration. The suspended terraces seem rather large; I would recommend rethinking their functional use or breaking up their massing to prevent them from appearing as vast, unused surfaces.

Given that the project is located in a coastal area, which is not entirely favorable for wooden materials due to environmental exposure, it is essential to carefully select the appropriate type of wood. Saltwater and the salty coastal air may lead to faster deterioration and degradation of the material. The load-bearing structures forming the main envelope appear to be appropriately chosen and suitable for the character of the building. Interior walls may function as infill elements and, in certain cases, contribute to structural load transfer. However, it is not entirely clear from the proposal whether barrier-free access between the different levels of the “nest” has been addressed. I greatly appreciate the placement of the relaxation zone along the long ramp leading toward the sea. An important parameter of any public building—especially those intended for shopping or dining—is the provision of a sufficient number of parking spaces, which are not evident in this proposal. Considering current societal trends and the increasing number of cars, this aspect should be taken into account.

The graphic presentation of the project is very interesting, clean, and appropriately handled in terms of color composition. However, I miss a more detailed explanation of the overall concept and a clearer presentation of the site integration, including basic urban analyses and connections to the surrounding context. Architecture should respect its environment and exist in harmony with it. For presentation purposes, it would be beneficial to include a comprehensive summary board containing all key information in a clear and structured format.

The overall concept and the proposed architecture appear successful. I would recommend focusing more on enhancing the quality of the presentation and supplementing the project with broader urban context, including its placement within a wider site map. At the same time, attention should be paid to the technical relationships between individual structural elements.
Please continue your work; I believe that each future project will be at least of the same quality, if not even better.
I wish you the best of luck with your future projects — in my opinion, this is a very good piece of work.

17.02.2026