Who are we?

Zuzana & Jan Kurz  

Founders

Zuzana and Jan Kurz are the heart of the studio. They both sucessfully graduated from the Faculty of Arts and Architecture at the Technical University of Liberec. In 2017 they gave their mutual passion real outlines as they founded the studio KURZ architects. Since then they have been building, step by step, a space where everyone involved, from fellow architects, planners, suppliers etc. is inspired and most importanly encouraged to come up with their own creative solution.

In the process of creation, freedom and client's trust are essential to them. From these two main ingredients, the magical essence of each individual projects is gradually materialized. Their approach to work does not believe in a characteristic style. They believe that each place requires unique attitude and approach, consideration for local peculiarities, needs of the client. Nevertheless, it could be said that Zuzana and Jan's work is characterized by respect for nature, a passion for materials in their authentic form, a great sense of detail and, last but not least, respect for traditions and proven methods.

Zuzana and Jan are inseparable from their son Olbram and Gustav, snow-white dog Jindřich and the eco farm Velký Jidřichov that is located in the solitude of the Novohradské Mountains, where they decided to settle and live permanently. They spend a large part of their free time revitalizing the surrounding landscape - restoring the original roads, Calvaries or planting alleys. With respect for its tarnished past they try to breathe a long-term vision into the Novohradské cultural landscape and so take a considerate care of its future.

Do you have any questions? Are you interested in cooperating with us? Would you like us to send any materials to you? Or shall we just meet over a glass of good wine?

+420 606 787 759

How do we work? 

Vision

This phase is of a great importance to us as we gain a deep understanding of the unique circumstances of a particular project and client. Through several personal meetings we get acquainted with the location, place and its characteristics, its history, etc. We gradually discover your vision, values and lifestyle. We ask many questions and start looking for answers through the lens of architecture. The main output of this phase is what we call a ‘perception’ book.

Disposition

At this stage we already start giving your project very specific outlines. From the architect's point of view, this is the most voluminous and time-consuming phase. You can expect very specific proposals and their detailed solutions, including the selection of materials, accessories etc. The main output is hand-drawn sketches followed by visualization. When we agree on everything to mutual satisfaction the time-consuming technical documentation comes into play. Our aim is to ensure a smooth implementation and so we always try to recommend or ensure suitable suppliers too. 

Realization

Throughout the whole realization we take on a role of author's supervision by standard. That means we regularly go to inspection days and intervene operatively where necessary. It is important to us to protect the esence of the project from the very beginning till its completion. Complete supplier coordination is provided on request.

Elena Fialková

Architect

Elena has been an integral part of the studio since the ealry beginnings. They have known each other for years and complement each other perfectly as a team. Elena graduated from the Academy of Arts, Architecture and Design in Prague and next to the work she happily continues in doctoral studies. In the process of creation, it is important to her that architecture tries to be complex and, in addition to functionality and aesthetics, also works with psychological, ecological or philosophical aspects. For  Elen architecture is a kind of meditation and adrenaline at the same time. Behind every spark of inspiration are long hours of work and discussions, coordination of various professions, but above all the patience of all involved.

Jakub Fišera

Architect

Jakub graduated from the Faculty of Architecture and Urbanism of the Czech Technical University in the studio of experimental and parametric architecture under Miloš Florian's guidance. His biggest motivation is to invent and design buildings that have not yet been designed. The main impulse is the concept of architecture as an unique image of space. His work is very often inspired by various fields of natural and social sciences. As he claims, architecture is a mission to him rather than a job. Family and friends bring the most joy to his personal life.

At KURZ architects studio, we do respect philosophy of sustainability and as such we emphasize that economic, ecological and social factors are in balance. We do commit to creating an architecture that is largely respectful to nature and its resources. By choosing our studio, you let us know that you will comply with such philosophy and hence support the creation of quality buildings for real needs, not expand on the land without meaningful intent, use renewable energy and consume it wisely, take into account local traditions and materials, use harmless materials above all and create a healthy interior. All in all through your decisions you undertake, together with us, to contribute to the protection of the environment. 

Martina Kocurišinová

Architect

Martina joined us shortly after finishing her studies at the Faculty of Art and Architecture at the Technical University of Liberec. What she enjoys most about architecture is the diversity of thinking that this field necessarily requires, yet also the opportunity to join forces with a various of other professionals who significantly influence the entire creation process. Martina definitely say YES to good food and dry humor. Most of all she likes traveling and nature. It’s not so unforeseen because she grew up in a place where High Tatras are a stone’s throw away. Yes, you guessed it right, she comes from Slovakia. When visiting her at home you would be welcomed by a giant green jungle as she surprisingly also loves flowers of all kinds. Somewhere among all those plants, you might come across a rabbit too, Mr. Ferdinand!

Johanna Nováková

Architect

Johanna is a budding architect who greatly complements our team. She started to gather her first practical experience already during her studies at the Faculty of Architecture of the Czech Technical University, right from the first year. She loves Italy, Georgia, good coffee, good wine, quality chocolate and things with a story. Don't be surprised if you meet her in one of the bazaars, antiquarians, fleas or second-hand shops. In her free time, she likes to wonder at galleries or paint. It still remains a mystery to us that Johanna does not have a single white shirt (the one she is wearing was lent for photography purposes:). But she has a white cat at home!

Jakub Pleyer

Architect / Planner 

Without Jakub, the entire team of studio KURZ architects could not be complete. Jakub is an expert in construction, building materials and other important essentials of any construction. During the design process, he consults with the whole team on possible solutions for the project implementation, and most importantly is responsible for the preparation and coordination of technical documentation. Jakub graduated from the Faculty of Arts and Architecture at the Technical University of Liberec and is currently its postgraduate doctorate with a scientific thesis on the topic of Organism Architecture. In addition to designing and  projecting he works with young people, mostly students of Czech schools of architecture, as part of a creative architectural workshop, which always deals with current issues of modern architecture in the Litoměřice region. He is also an official member of the Commission for Territorial Development and Regeneration of Municipal Monuments of the City of Litoměřice. In his spare time, he enjoys traveling, love Italian cuisine and Tuscany. He likes to relax while kiteboarding.

All work © KURZ architects

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