Moravian Palace, Brno

Palace Moravia (Palác Morava) in Brno is an architectural landmark designed by Arnošt Wiesner. The project was conceived following a 1926 architectural competition intended to replace a former music hall with a hotel. The competition drew entries from several world-renowned architects, including Peter Behrens and Jacobus Oud. However, it was Wiesner's innovative approach that ultimately shaped the final design.

Wiesner faced significant challenges during the building's construction, including a complex ground plan and geologically unstable subsoil. To address these, he collaborated closely with structural engineer Jaroslav Valenta. The building's design is notable for its combination of reinforced concrete and raw brickwork, creating a striking visual contrast.

The structure is divided into different functional areas: the lower levels house commercial spaces, a basement cinema, and a bar, while the first floor features a coffee lounge with an attached large terrace. The uppermost part of the building benefits from excellent natural lighting, which led Wiesner to allocate this area for residential apartments.

Later in the project, Wiesner integrated the building of the Moravian Life Insurance Company (Moravská zemská životní pojišťovna) into the overall complex. The entire project was completed in 1936, leaving a lasting impression on the architectural landscape of Brno.