Brouk a Babka, Functionalist department store in Ostrava, Czech Republic
The store is a five-story building with horizontal window bands across its facade that allow daylight into the sales areas. The functionalist design by Jan Gillar features clean lines and practical layouts where every element connects to its commercial purpose.
The building was constructed in 1901 and initially operated as a department store with progressive design ideals. Its commercial operations shifted after 1948 due to political changes in Czechoslovakia.
The store represents functionalism, an architectural style that became popular in early 1900s Czech design and combined practical purpose with clean aesthetics. Visitors can observe how the horizontal windows were planned to keep shopping areas bright and welcoming throughout the day.
The building is located at Smetanovo square in central Ostrava and remains accessible during regular business hours. Keep in mind that it continues to function as a retail space today, so you may encounter shoppers and staff.
The entire building was completed in just four and a half months, which was a remarkably fast construction time for 1901. This speed demonstrated the advanced building techniques and project coordination available during that era.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
