Mendel Square in Brno

CH + K

• Architetti

Architecture practices CHYBIK + KRISTOF, together with dilna and landscape architect Zdenek Sendler have reimagined Mendel Square in Brno, transforming a previously neglected transport hub into a vibrant, multifunctional public square. Situated in the Staré Brno district, the oldest part of the city, the new public space honours its historic surroundings while addressing the need for a public square and marks the first step in revitalization of this part of the city.

Staré Brno is home to 17,000 of the city’s 400,000 inhabitants. Despite being one of the oldest districts in the city, it did not have a public square that could act as a focal point for the community and local business. Despite the challenges posed by Mendel Square as a transport hub, the architects believed that with careful design the location could be transformed while remaining a key point in the city's transportation network.

photo_credit Alex Shoots Buildings — Alex Shoots Buildings

The new square has already delivered a tangible economic boost to the surrounding area, increasing property values and driving an estimated 20% rise in commercial activity in nearby stores and venues. It has also become a hub for the local community, hosting markets and festivals that bring new energy to the area. Importantly, the square’s transformation has not come at the expense of commuters who rely on this key interchange daily, achieving a seamless balance between functionality and community-focused design—one of the municipality’s priorities.

The distinctive circular shape is more than an aesthetic design choice—it was essential to unlocking the location's potential. It serves a dual purpose: defining the square as a cohesive public space and simplifying navigation by creating a clear central reference point. This design removes barriers, improves visibility, and fosters an open, inviting atmosphere that encourages pedestrians to explore in all directions. The modular urban furniture selected for the square, designed as distinct points rather than elongated forms, further emphasizes the circular theme while providing flexible seating options.

The statue of Gregor Mendel, the pioneering geneticist after whom the square is named, serves as a focal point, celebrating Brno’s scientific legacy. The red stone pavement across the square reflects the nearby Basilica and Augustinian Monastery, paying homage to the area's historic context. It transitions seamlessly across different zones—walkways, roads, and transport platforms—while maintaining a cohesive and streamlined flow for buses and trams.

The integration of abundant greenery enhances the square’s welcoming atmosphere. Strategically placed, the trees are evenly distributed and supported by an underground channel system that connects their roots and supports their health and longevity. The tree species chosen for the square honor Mendel's groundbreaking research.

CHYBIK + KRISTOF Architects and dilna’s thoughtful approach has successfully introduced a new public square within the historic context, preserving and enhancing its role as a transportation hub while establishing it as a new benchmark for urban renewal in a challenging location.

Ondrej Chybik, co-founder of CHYBIK + KRISTOF, said: “This project presented a rare opportunity to create a completely new public space in the heart of a historic part of the city. From the outset, our vision was to transform Mendel Square into a vibrant civic space that not only respects Brno’s rich heritage but also redefines how public spaces can serve communities in contemporary urban life.”

Michal Palaščak, founder of dilna, said: “The transformation of Mendel Square marks the first stage in the broader revitalization of the Staré Brno district. The design not only honors the area’s heritage but also redefines the square as a welcoming, functional public space, an urban forest, and an efficient transportation hub. It is great to see how successfully it serves the community today.”

Sarka Kubinova, senior architect at CHYBIK + KRISTOF, said: “Coming from Brno, this project held deep personal significance for me. Understanding the positive impact it could have on the surrounding community shaped our team's approach from the very beginning.”

“One of the defining features of this new public space is the thoughtfully integrated greenery. With accessibility at the heart of the design, we focused on creating an elevated green layer, adding trees to provide a protective canopy. Beneath their shade, people can move through their daily routines, take a moment to pause, or simply enjoy spending time in the square.”