Brother Frič Primary School

Project: Brother Frič Primary School

Segment: Education

Country/city: Czech Republic, Ondřejov

Architect: ATELIER 6

Installer: BV GIPS EU s.r.o.

Photographer: Peter Fabo

Production year: 2025

A school that won the Czech Interior Award 2025

At first glance, it may appear modest – yet inside, it reveals a world full of surprises. The new Brother Frič Primary School in Ondřejov brings together three municipalities and provides education for 540 pupils.

Designed by ATELIER 6, the building meets Passive House standards – a rigorous approach to sustainable architecture that ensures outstanding energy efficiency, thermal comfort, and indoor air quality. The design emphasises sustainability, daylight, and acoustic comfort, resulting in a calm and inspiring atmosphere for both pupils and teachers.

The project was recognised with the Czech Interior Award 2025 in the category Public Interior – Work and Educational Spaces.

A subtle façade concealing playfulness and colour

The school is composed of three interconnected volumes. Its façade – with brick strips, green-framed windows, and fencing – references the aesthetic of the nearby Ondřejov Observatory. This visual language continues into the foyer, where a stylised star motif radiates towards all classrooms.

Inside, the school unfolds like an open textbook. Exposed structures and installations reveal the building’s inner workings, while neutral furniture provides balance. The colourful natural linoleum floors – designed in collaboration with artist Pavla Gregorová Šípová – introduce vibrancy, movement, and a sense of creativity to the interior.

Functionality meets design

Acoustic comfort plays a vital role in the learning environment. In Ondřejov, particular attention has been given to sound quality throughout the building – from classrooms and corridors to the cafeteria.

Suspended Ecophon Solo™ Circle panels absorb sound from both sides, while their circular form evokes the image of a starry sky. Combined with Ecophon Gedina™ E (a suspended ceiling system with a subtle shadow edge) and Ecophon Solo™ Square and Circle panels, the design ensures a calm, welcoming atmosphere that supports concentration, communication, and wellbeing.

Architecture for future generations

Through the close collaboration between architects, designers, and artists, a school has been created that is not only functional and sustainable, but also inspirational and playful. The Brother Frič Primary School sets a new benchmark for educational architecture in the Czech Republic – a space designed for today’s learners and tomorrow’s innovators.