Prague
initial study 2022, update 2025
Prague City Hall, Department of Spatial Development
landscape architecture, land use study
ecology: Jan Albert Šturma
LETŇANY-KBELY LAND USE STUDY / 2025 UPDATE
We are pleased to have contributed landscape architecture to the initial draft of a land use study for the large Letňany–Kbely development area, prepared by architects from the Prague Institute of Planning and Development (IPR). The study provides a framework for the future development of the area.
11/2025: IPR Prague has submitted a revised draft of the land use study to the commissioning authority (the Department of Spatial Development of Prague City Hall), and it will now be discussed with the public. The City Hall has published the documentation on its official bulletin board, announced the deadline for comments and scheduled a public hearing. Learn more here
LIFE IN THE NEW NEIGHBOURHOOD
The proposal aims to create the conditions for a vibrant urban neighbourhood based on a diverse mix of uses across the area, its blocks and buildings, allowing different functions to coexist without conflict.
This diversity supports activity throughout the day and helps avoid mono-functional areas used only at certain times. At the same time, a wide range of amenities and services supports the compact city principle, where residents can meet their daily needs locally and do not need to commute to other parts of the city. The new neighbourhood is designed in such a way that it will not place undue pressure on surrounding areas; on the contrary, its jobs, secondary school, health clinic, recreational facilities and other services will also benefit people living in neighbouring parts of the city.
LANDSCAPE
The landscape concept is rooted in the site’s location within a flat, agriculturally cultivated landscape at the interface between the city and the Elbe River valley. While the natural conditions and terrain are suitable for development, the proposal also has to respond to the character of the surrounding landscape, the wider metropolitan context and the challenges of climate change. Spatial orientation and landscape permeability are key considerations. The urban design proposes a compact neighbourhood that makes use of its position at the edge of the open countryside, forming a link between the city and the landscape. The study introduces a comprehensive blue-green infrastructure system, including green courtyards, green roofs and new parks. The design respects the local landscape character, supports biodiversity, and helps create a healthy and pleasant living environment.
TRANSPORT
The new neighbourhood in Letňany is conceived as a modern, sustainable community, and the transport strategy reflects this vision. Streets accommodate all modes of circulation – from walking and cycling to public transport and private vehicles. Active mobility is prioritised, with legible and safe pedestrian and cycling routes. Many residential streets are designed as pedestrian or limited traffic zones, or have a maximum speed limit of 30 km/h. The metro and bus terminal becomes an integral part of the open public space and is connected to the new tram line. Transportation and the different uses of the neighbourhood follow the principles of a city of short distances.
LETŇANY-KBELY LAND USE STUDY / 2025 UPDATE
We are pleased to have contributed landscape architecture to the initial draft of a land use study for the large Letňany–Kbely development area, prepared by architects from the Prague Institute of Planning and Development (IPR). The study provides a framework for the future development of the area.
11/2025: IPR Prague has submitted a revised draft of the land use study to the commissioning authority (the Department of Spatial Development of Prague City Hall), and it will now be discussed with the public. The City Hall has published the documentation on its official bulletin board, announced the deadline for comments and scheduled a public hearing. Learn more here
LIFE IN THE NEW NEIGHBOURHOOD
The proposal aims to create the conditions for a vibrant urban neighbourhood based on a diverse mix of uses across the area, its blocks and buildings, allowing different functions to coexist without conflict.
This diversity supports activity throughout the day and helps avoid mono-functional areas used only at certain times. At the same time, a wide range of amenities and services supports the compact city principle, where residents can meet their daily needs locally and do not need to commute to other parts of the city. The new neighbourhood is designed in such a way that it will not place undue pressure on surrounding areas; on the contrary, its jobs, secondary school, health clinic, recreational facilities and other services will also benefit people living in neighbouring parts of the city.
LANDSCAPE
The landscape concept is rooted in the site’s location within a flat, agriculturally cultivated landscape at the interface between the city and the Elbe River valley. While the natural conditions and terrain are suitable for development, the proposal also has to respond to the character of the surrounding landscape, the wider metropolitan context and the challenges of climate change. Spatial orientation and landscape permeability are key considerations. The urban design proposes a compact neighbourhood that makes use of its position at the edge of the open countryside, forming a link between the city and the landscape. The study introduces a comprehensive blue-green infrastructure system, including green courtyards, green roofs and new parks. The design respects the local landscape character, supports biodiversity, and helps create a healthy and pleasant living environment.
TRANSPORT
The new neighbourhood in Letňany is conceived as a modern, sustainable community, and the transport strategy reflects this vision. Streets accommodate all modes of circulation – from walking and cycling to public transport and private vehicles. Active mobility is prioritised, with legible and safe pedestrian and cycling routes. Many residential streets are designed as pedestrian or limited traffic zones, or have a maximum speed limit of 30 km/h. The metro and bus terminal becomes an integral part of the open public space and is connected to the new tram line. Transportation and the different uses of the neighbourhood follow the principles of a city of short distances.
