The second phase of the reconstruction of the historic dome of the Breda department store in Opava has begun

Opava - The second phase of the reconstruction of the dome of the Breda department store has begun. Today, the construction site was taken over by the company that will carry out the next phase of demanding restoration and conservation works. Roman Konečný, spokesperson for the Opava city council, stated this to ČTK. If everything goes according to plan, the dome should return to its original appearance, resembling how it looked nearly a hundred years ago, in about a year.

"The dome of Breda is one of the symbols of Opava and one of the most prominent architectural elements of the entire building. It is therefore important that its restoration is carried out very carefully and with respect to its original form. The work is challenging, but the result should be that this beautiful landmark will regain its original appearance while being structurally secured for many more years to come," said Mayor Tomáš Navrátil (ANO).

According to Konečný, the majestic dome is one of the most prominent architectural features of the historic building designed by architect Leopold Bauer and is one of the landmarks of the historic center of Opava. After decades of operation, a fire, and subsequent years of neglect, its structure and individual parts are in a condition that requires extensive intervention. The contract, valued at nearly 20 million crowns, includes comprehensive technical stabilization of the structure as well as sensitive restoration of original elements.

The first phase, which began last year, mainly involved preparatory work. The builders aimed to determine the condition of the dome and also to find a method for cleaning it. "The upcoming work will involve the gradual removal and replacement of glass blocks, restoration of the reinforced concrete structure of the dome, and repairs to surfaces and plastering, including their fixation and injection. Experts will also focus on cleaning the intermediary spaces of the dome, where dirt has accumulated over the years, as well as repairing minor modeling defects," said the spokesperson.

According to him, steel, wooden, and sheet metal elements will also be repaired, including the drainage and ventilation systems. Missing glass fillings will also be added according to period photographs. Restorers will also repair the mechanism for suspending and moving the lighting fixture, which is part of the dome's structure. The project also includes the installation of new electrical wiring and a lightning rod.

The work is taking place at significant heights, requiring extensive technical safety measures. Scaffolding from the first phase is already in place inside and outside, with another two levels to be added. The dome will be covered during the reconstruction to protect it from rain. The construction site will also include a temporary support structure that will transfer the load of its ribs after relieving the dome. Restorers will also use a special suspended walkway during the work.

When it opened in 1928, Breda was the largest department store in the republic. The building from 1927, which was created by renovating the original department store, has deteriorated in recent decades. The cultural monument, which belonged to the bankrupt entrepreneur Kamil Kolka, was acquired by the city in 2022 for 39.5 million crowns. Total reconstruction costs were initially estimated at around 300 million crowns a few years ago; now they are 200 million higher. The annual operating cost of the building with 10,000 square meters is expected to be about 17.7 million crowns.

After repairs, the building is expected to offer a marketplace, restaurant, café, and spaces for rent. Architects also plan to create a square in front of the building. The transformation of Breda involves the Brussels studio OFFICE Kersten Geers David Van Severen, the Brno studio GRAM, and the Slovak collective Spolka. The architects aim to restore Breda's original glory and open the space to the public.