PORTFOLIO
Ing. arch. Katarína Košutová
19.06.1997 Čadca, Slovakia
WORK EXPERIENCE
2022 – 2024 Studio PM architects, Luxembourg Focus areas: studies, interiors, brochures, graphics
2020 – 2022 Studio Asi-metr, Prague Focus areas: studies, building permit documentation, competitions, interiors
EDUCATION
2019 – 2021 Faculty of Architecture, Czech Technical University in Prague, Master’s Degree
2016 – 2019 Faculty of Architecture, Czech Technical University in Prague, Bachelor’s Degree
2004 – 2016 Art School in Kysucké Nové Mesto, Slovakia, fine arts
2012 – 2016 High School Veľká okružná, Žilina, Slovakia
COMPETITIONS
2021 Student Competition Olověný Dušan - Gap Spaces of Prague (broader nomination)
2020 International Student Competition Xella Ytong - Presidential Villa on Slavín Hill in Bratislava (5th place)
COMPUTER SKILLS
Autocad / Indesign / Photoshop / Illustrator / SketchUp / V-ray / Revit / MS Office
LANGUAGES
Slovak - Native
Czech - Fluent
French - Intermediate
English - Intermediate
INTERESTS
painting, traveling, yoga, orienteering, radio-orienteering, cooking
CONTACT
kosutova.katka@gmail.com
+352 621 141 963
SELECTED PROJECTS
ARCHITECTURAL STUDY
Family houses in Perlé_Luxembourg
Collaboration: Studio PM architects (Ing. arch. Pavol Moravčík)
The complex of four family houses is situated in the western part of Luxembourg in the quaint village of Perlé on the border with Belgium. The development is organized into two pairs of houses, each pair linked by garages.
Buildings in Luxembourg are characterized by conservatism, clean, simple lines, a regular arrangement of windows, and natural colors. Just like the people in this country, the houses aim to respect each other. That is why we decided to design a complex of buildings that would not stand out, but would blend in with their surroundings. The houses respect the heights, colors, and simplicity observed in the area.
From the outside, the houses may appear unremarkable at first glance, but they offer residents a generous layout, meaning that each room is spacious with its own toilet and terrace.
ARCHITECTURAL STUDY
Art
pavilion Lyhty_Finland
Collaboration: Studio PM architects (Ing. arch. Pavol Moravčík)
The Lyhty Pavilion is a small art venue that will host exhibitions by two artists residing in Nurmes, Finland. The building is situated in the woods on a hill, near the town, offering views of the lake and the forest. The artists specialize in light art, creating a variety of colorful audiovisual pieces. This is why we decided to incorporate glass into the design. The pavilion will illuminate its surroundings in the evening. The structure of the roof and floor is covered with wooden planks.
ARCHITECTURAL STUDY
Trois Maisons Welfrange_Luxembourg
Collaboration: Studio PM architects (Ing. arch. Pavol Moravčík)
We designed a trio of houses in the scenic village of Welfrange, located in the southeast of Luxembourg. This village, with its traditional houses, old barns, and stone church, surrounded by wide fields and woods, offering a serene living environment.
Our aim was to preserve the romantic spirit of the area, so we created houses that fully respect the surroundings, including the height of the houses, the gable roofs, the discreet composition of the windows and the traditional materials. At the same time, the interior layout and design of the houses meet the standards of a modern Luxembourgian.
ARCHITECTURAL COMPETITION
Lowcost housing Za Papírnou_Prague
Collaboration: Ing. arch. Pavel Zamazal, Ing. arch. Martina Formánková
The apartment building is situated within a Prague block, boasting a lucrative location in the Holešovice district, at the heart of Prague. It is positioned on the southeastern corner.
Our design represents a subtly unconventional approach to traditional urban living. The ground floor of the building is maximally open to the street, while on the upper floors, we combine the spatial efficiency of corridor typology with the economic advantage of a house with a gallery. We have designed a pair of houses built on a common foundation with an open social-communication platform between them. We give a new face to elements that traditionally stand back to back. We bring in daylight and fresh air.
keramická dlažba
keramická dlažba
keramická dlažba lepidlo hydroizolace ŽB konzola 200 mm omítka
dřevěné vlysy betonová bazanina 55 mm separační vrstva kročejová izolace 25 mm ŽB 200 mm omítka
rozchodníkový koberec vegetační vrstva drenážní a retenční vrstva
keramická dlažba lepidlo hydroizolace ŽB konzola 200 mm omítka
dřevěné vlysy
dřevěné vlysy betonová bazanina 55 mm separační vrstva kročejová izolace 25 mm ŽB 200 mm omítka
ISOCORB K20
dřevěné vlysy betonová bazanina
dřevěné vlysy
INTERIOR STUDY
Apartment in a family house Nebušice_Czech Republic
Collaboration: Studio Asi-metr (Ing. arch. Daniel Žalman)
The apartment, designed for a young family, is situated within a multi-generational family home. Our clients requested the creation of an open space where the whole family could gather and incorporate interior elements typical of Czech traditional villages.
We decided to open up the layout as much as possible. We left the beams exposed on the ceiling and whitewashed the wooden planks. Additionally, we color-matched the wooden floor to complement the exposed beams. A skylight was installed above the kitchen counter to further enhance the room’s brightness. The kitchen and library feature a darker grey-blue hue, providing a striking contrast to the light-colored interior. Furnishings such as sofas, chairs, tables, and lighting fixtures were selected in shades of white or beige, acknowledging that light-colored elements can visually expand smaller spaces. A fireplace was strategically placed in the living room corner, creating a cozy “hygge” atmosphere, perfect for relaxing with a good book and a cup of tea.
STUDY + BUILDING PERMIT DOCUMENTATION
House Budkov_Czech Republic
Collaboration : Studio Asi-metr (Ing. arch. Richard Vojtěch, Ing. arch. Daniel Žalman)
The proposed building is designed to occupy the same location as the existing house and barn, with its gable wall facing south. It is carefully planned to not exceed the original height of the cornices, thus maintaining the character of the village. The entire building aims to blend seamlessly into the site without the need to level the sloping ground. In the northern part of the site, where the terrain begins to drop more steeply, efforts will be made to align it with the rest of the site.
The exterior of the building is designed to blend harmoniously with its environment. Despite appearing as a single structure with a gable roof, it is actually composed of two separate volumes connected by a slab and a wall. The volume facing the street features a gable roof, while the other volume has a simpler form with a flat roof, not visible from the outside. The main entrance to the building is located on the southern side, featuring an arched opening inspired by traditional houses in the area. Opposite the entrance, the connecting slab hosts a circular opening for a tree to grow through.
In terms of materials and color scheme, the house aims to seamlessly blend into its surroundings. The exterior facing the street and the pond is finished in white plaster, reflecting the prevalent style in the neighborhood. The gable roof is envisioned with dark grey titanium zinc metal panels, with discreetly integrated Lindab solar panels on one side to complement the roof’s appearance. The flat roof is designed to be invisible from the outside and will be covered with vegetation. The facade of the flat-roofed section, facing the courtyard and garden, will be adorned with vertically arranged wooden slats. The connecting slab between the two volumes will be made of concrete.
ARCHITECTURAL STUDY
Reconstruction of farmstead Bezděkov_Czech Republic
Collaboration: Studio Asi-metr (Vendula Hladoníková, Ing. arch. Richard Vojtěch)
The farmstead is situated in the picturesque village of Bezděkov, near the town of Vranov. Originally, the property comprised five buildings that served agricultural purposes: a barn, a granary, stables, and two residential houses. Currently, these buildings no longer fulfill their original roles and are gradually deteriorating. In our design, we aim to revitalize these structures. We plan to repurpose the original functions to create a family summer residence.
We strive to preserve the original forms as much as possible while adapting the layouts to meet residential standards. In the barn, we plan to enlarge the opening, positioning it opposite the entrance to the farmstead. Currently, the buildings are topped with asbestos roofs, which are unsuitable; therefore, we will replace all roofs with new materials. The roof of the granary will be entirely removed, and in its place, we will install an outdoor swimming pool.
SCHOOL WORKS
DIPLOMA THESIS
Czech House and Embassy in Taiwan
Studio Císler - Milerová
The house symbolizes the amicable and welcoming international and interpersonal relationships between our country and Taiwan. It introduces a slice of our culture to the island and stands as a representation of our nation.
To foster a friendly atmosphere, I have designed the house to be as open and accessible as possible, integrating it harmoniously with its surroundings. Transitional passages provide space for free movement between the streets. Inside the block, I have created a public space in the form of a square, surrounded by a three-story arcade, offering a serene spot for individuals to pause and unwind.
The building accommodates two distinct functions, separated horizontally. The first three floors are dedicated to the Czech House, with its facade marked by arches that symbolize this purpose. This section houses publicly accessible amenities such as a restaurant, shop, library, and a multifunctional hall. The consular and visa department is situated in the upper section, comprising representative spaces, offices, and apartments on the topmost floors.
In terms of structure and materials, the institution is characterized by brick arches and vaults in the lower segment, which provide support for the upper floors designated for the consular section. These upper sections feature a perforated brick facade, blending traditional and contemporary architectural elements.
ELECTIVE PROJECT
Archive of the National Museum and Czechoslovak Docum. Center Studio Císler - Milerová
On the designated plot in Holešovice, there are three buildings. Along Na Zátorách street, there are two two-storey buildings, one of which accommodates the National Museum Archive. Currently, the archive faces inadequate conditions due to limited depository capacity. Consequently, I have decided to demolish these two buildings to construct a new archive facility. Additionally, there is a four-storey building on U Papírny Street, which functions as office space. This building, a well-preserved historic structure with an attractive facade, will not be demolished; instead, but will be renovated. I plan to extend it with a two-floor superstructure and a winter garden, and it will serve as the new home for the Czechoslovak Documentation Centre.
Archive
The new archive is designed to meet all the requirements necessary for the optimal operation of the National Museum. I envision a six-storey structure for this purpose. At its core, a prominent mass made of pigmented pink concrete will be situated, housing all archival materials and the central communication hub. The depository will feature automation through the use of robotic book carriers. Contrasting with the dark concrete core, the building will have a light, warm, and bright exterior. A glass facade will envelop the core, providing natural light for areas that benefit from daylight exposure, such as open reading spaces and private study rooms.
Czechoslovak Documentation Center
The Czechoslovak Documentation Centre, dedicated to collecting literature from exiles, has acquired rare writings, documents, books, and photographs that were originally collected in Germany before being relocated to Prague. Now part of the National Museum’s Archive, it received these collections through a donation. The Documentation Centre currently operates under suboptimal conditions. In this context, new facilities are being planned not only for document storage but also for hosting exhibitions, workshops, and lectures. The ground floor will feature exhibition areas, while the upper floors will accommodate offices and lecture halls. The top two floors are designated for apartments, intended for individuals deeply involved with exile literature, providing spaces where they can live and work. The addition of winter gardens aims to enhance these spaces, fostering a connection with the National Museum Archive.
*CSDC= Czechoslovak Documentation Center
URBAN PROJECT
Gap spaces of Prague
Studio Valouch - Stibral
The aim of this study is to explore the construction possibilities and untapped potential within the historic city centers, with a specific focus on the territory of Prague 1. This endeavor was initiated after an extensive survey and assessment of the conditions in the central area. The selection of specific plots was based on subjective judgments, which were subsequently analyzed and substantiated with evidence.
Following this approach, a catalog was compiled to evaluate all the identified plots. They were systematically cataloged, and their attributes were compared.
The cumulative area of 12,241.4 m² may seem insignificant, representing merely 0.4% of the entire district. However, when compared to the scale of a suburban development or the density of Manhattan, this figure is quite substantial.
This methodology can be applied to most historic city centers. We should not adhere to the simplistic belief that cities can reach a saturation point where further progress is impossible.
GAP SPACES
Arrangement by size:
gap spaces size S < 200 m²
gap spaces size M 200 - 700 m²
gap spaces size L > 700 m²
S1 - Haštalská Street
S2 - Anežská Street
S3 - Street U Obecního dvora
S4 - Haštalská Street
S5 - Klimentská Street
S6 - Templova Street
S7 - Jindrišská Street
S8 - Street Politických vězňu
S9 - Ostrovní Street
S10 - Ostrovní Street
S11 - Vojtešská Street
S12 - Vojtešská Street
S13 - Pštrossova Street
M1 - Street U Milosrdných_Kozí Street
M2 - Lannova Street_Street Nové Mlýny
M3 - Lannova Street
M4 - Street Nové Mlýny
M5 - Street U Obecního dvora
M6 - Parížska Street_Bílkova Street
M7 - Street 17.listopadu_Široká Street
M8 - Náprstková Street
M9 - Street Na Perštýne
M10 - Street V Cípu
M11 - Růžová Street
M12 - Palackého Street
L1 - Street Na Františku_Kozí street
L2 - Street Mala Štupartská_Masná Street
L3 - Staromestské Square
CENTRE POTENTIAL
BUILT-UP AREA OF GAP size S.......................................1449,5 m²
BUILT-UP AREA OF GAP size M.....................................5067,4 m²
BUILT-UP AREA OF GAP size L......................................5724,5 m²
TOTAL BUILT-UP AREA...................................................12 241,4 m²
TOTAL VOLUME...............................................................165 536 m³
TOTAL FLOOR AREA......................................................52 759,9 m²
CONSTRUCTION PROJECT
Hangar for airship in Ny–Ålesund
Studio Baum - Hybler
Ny-Ålesund is a small settlement on the archipelago of Svalbard in Norway, renowned as one of the northernmost permanently inhabited locations on Earth. Scientists in this area utilize the EM-Bird probe to study the thickness of the ice cover, primarily employing helicopters for this purpose. However, helicopters are limited by their range and the vibrations they produce, which can interfere with the measurements. As a result, there is contemplation of adopting the AU-30 airship for future studies. This airship, measuring 54 meters in length, necessitates the construction of a hangar equipped with the appropriate facilities.
The proposed hangar will be built on the site of a historic hangar that previously accommodated an expedition airship, located near the settlement. The new hangar’s dimensions will be 77 meters in length and 35 meters in height.
A notable feature of the hangar is its innovative opening mechanism. The upper shell is designed to fold completely flat, allowing the airship to autonomously take off and land. Despite the initial complexity of this system, it offers significant advantages, including the avoidance of the need for two 120-meter-long rails, thereby saving a considerable amount of material.
Constructed from steel, the hangar´s design is hierarchical, comprising 50 mm thick steel beams spaced 3500 mm apart. The transverse steel components will be shipped in containers and assembled on-site. The longitudinal elements, made from bent sheet metal shaped like a teardrop and affixed to corrugated metal, form a sturdy shell. This structure is supported by both transverse and longitudinal frames resting on concrete pads, with internal facilities housed within this framework. The hangar´s mobility is facilitated by hydraulic pistons housed within its structure. Its floor is built from steel beams and joists, topped with a corrugated finish for added durability. The circular doors, mirroring the hangar´s construction, consist of bolted steel sections centred around a rotating joint. This joint is supported on one side by two rods and on the other by a stationary steel plate, enabling the doors to operate like a Ferris wheel, where two upper quarter-circles rotate downwards to form a semicircle. The hangar´s surface is clad in polycarbonate, allowing natural light to permeate the interior.
78°55’ N
11° 56’ E situation
component A - welded transverse beam 50 mm
component C - corrugated sheet
component B - longitudinal beam made of bent sheet metal 4 mm
welded steel elements 50 mm
steel cylinder with a drilled hole
4 pc screws M25
concrete foundation pad
screws M25
threaded rod M 200
welded steel plate 60 mm
reinforced concrete prefabricate
bent sheet metal element 4 mm
anti-freeze resistance wires
welded transverse beam
longitudinal beam
longitudinal beam
transverse beam
piston
rotating joint
HOUSING PROJECT
Presidential Villa on Slavín Hill in Bratislava
Studio Rothbauer
Plot
The plot is situated in Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, with optimal East-West orientation. It is situated on a hill near the Slavín military monument, offering panoramic views of the entire city. The location is advantageous, surrounded by trees and natural scenery, making it an idyllic residential setting. The main entrance to the property is on its southern side, at the highest point along Pažická Street. At this upper section, a paved area will be constructed, serving as the house’s forefront. Beneath this area, underground garages are accessible via a spiral ramp. The land slopes steeply towards the East. A pathway from the paved area leads down beside a wall to the villa’s private sector. The northern garden is designated for visitors, accessible through gentle, broad stairs integrated into the landscape. This garden will feature a natural lawn without paving, intended for hosting summer tea gatherings, and will be encircled by newly planted trees. The entire property is secured with a tall, solid wall to ensure the President’s safety.
House
The presidential villa is designed to harmonize with the sloping terrain, presenting a long, narrow structure divided into two horizontal sections. The lower section, a substantial concrete base, is integrated into the landscape, housing the private quarters of the President and the operational areas of the residence. Thick walls and small windows provide a fortified sanctuary, vital for the state´s leader. The interior layout is meticulously organized, with a lengthy corridor connecting the rooms. The President´s bedroom and study offer direct access to the southern garden, which includes a swimming pool with an embedded shelter. This corridor culminates in a spacious living room, featuring a panoramic window that frames views of Bratislava´s New Town. Above this solid foundation rests a contrasting element: a delicate, transparent structure symbolizing the President´s public persona. This airy space is designed for representation, offering unobstructed views in all directions. The upper level has a flexible layout, including a dining area that can comfortably seat 20 guests, surrounded by a gallery and terrace.
BACHELOR THESIS
Library on Perštýn Street in Prague Studio Novotný_Koňata_Zmek
The mysterious garden behind the wall, a tower in the garden.
I´m enhancing the Perštýn street with the addition of a wall, effectively completing the historical block. Behind this wall lies a serene garden, accessible through a discreet entrance. It serves as a tranquil escape. At the rear, hidden stairs lead to a library.
The structure is divided into two distinct sections. The horizontal section accommodates functional spaces, while the vertical section features a tower. This tower is characterized by a lattice of shelves that extend vertically, around which galleries are arranged. The shelving structure is intermittently broken by openings and balconies that create niches for reading and studying.
section B-B´ 1:500
section A-A´ 1:500
southern view 1:500
eastern view 1:500
CIVIL BUILDING PROJECT
Theatre in Ljubljana
Studio Ondrej Císler
The site is situated in the capital of Slovenia, Ljubljana, which is also the birthplace of the renowned architect Josip Plečnik. This plot forms an internal block located in the city centre, nestled in the valley beneath the castle and adjacent to a significant city park. The Ľubljanica River flows nearby.
I aim to transform the inner block into a theatre square, providing a fresh perspective for the public. The northern part of this area is linked by tree-lined underpasses, while the southern part connects to a parcel dedicated to a memorial for all victims, bridging the theatre square with a park.
At the centre of the square, I have placed a statue, making the square a new landmark of Ljubljana. This square, “Kip na trg,” aspires to make Ljubljana a city with a distinct identity and a vibrant theatre centre. This unique spot within the block is envisioned to enrich the community with cultural experiences, offering experimental theatre, street performances, film showings, and workshops. Despite Ljubljana´s relatively small size and population, there are many theatres with numerous seats, which often remain unoccupied. Notably, none are dedicated to centemporary art forms like experimental theatre, which attracts more and more people.
The sculpture is composed of several interconnected masses, constructed from reinforced concrete that was set within wooden formwork, segmenting the sculpture into smaller sections. Each mass serves a distinct purpose. The main block’s base houses a café, inviting visitors to sit and relax. A summer amphitheatre extends from this block for outdoor performances. Dual staircases lead to an entrance hall with a cloakroom. Atop the block lies a foyer connected to an indoor auditorium with a capacity of seating 100 spectators, with a small backstage area on the opposite side. These spaces are linked through vertical communication. The external articulation of spaces contributes to a distinctive, unconventionally shaped figure that coalesces into a singular entity—a sculpture aimed at engaging the public.
FUNDAMENTALS OF ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN
House with studio on a slope Brožová/ Hurka/ Kurčíková
The house, tailored for a sloping site bordered by a road on one side, takes the shape of a spatial grid comprised of 27 smaller cubes, collectively forming a coherent structure. Each cube serves as an individual volumetric unit designated for specific functions, with some functions spanning multiple units. Embedded within this grid are two guest studios situated in the basement, a residential unit on the ground floor, and a “studio” complete with a library on the first floor for the writer´s use. A spiral staircase vertically interconnects all three sections. The grid´s supporting framework is constructed from solid wooden beams. The house´s exterior is segmented by slats, partitioning the facade into smaller sections, thus giving the structure a lighter appearance. A polycarbonate cladding envelops the entire construction, protecting the wooden slats from weather elements.
The structure is elevated on wooden columns, creating a space beneath that the writer envisions as an outdoor contemplation area for use during the lengthy summer evenings. Hidden within the base of the structure lies a wine cellar.
