When Sustainability and Light Create a Modern Altar
Designing a space for such significant and sensitive moments, as wedding ceremonies or welcoming new citizens, requires extraordinary humility, architectural sensitivity, and the ability to work with symbolism. During the reconstruction of the Ceremonial Hall in Příbram, the Karnet architekti studio succeeded in creating an interior that visually cleansed the space, adapted it to modern requirements, and at the same time breathed a dignified and solemn atmosphere into it. Our backlit Mínus® panels played a key role in this concept.
Cleansing the Space and Searching for a New Altar
The original ceremonial room faced a number of functional and aesthetic challenges—from a non-functional heating system and the absence of modern lighting to the need to visually unify the space. The architects therefore decided to cleanse the interior and terminate it with a dominant element that functions as a modern altar and a natural focal point of the entire room.
“Recycled, translucent panels allowed us to work with the termination of the space in a modern and fresh way. By backlighting them, we visually elongated the entire room,” explains main architect Michael Karnet.
A Lighting Experience Without Compromises
Working with light was essential to the design from the very beginning. The semi-transparent structure of the Mínus panels lets through a warm, diffuse light, creating an almost sacred atmosphere in the space. Thanks to its specific visual and lighting properties, the sustainable material became truly irreplaceable for this realization.
However, the unique lighting effect required a precise technical solution. “Working with the panels is a challenge every time, and we have to address the details closely with joiners. Each project has specific requirements for detailing and anchoring. In the case of backlighting, it is also about the correct placement of LED strips and light diffusion—in the end, it becomes an honest craft challenge,” describes Michael Karnet.
Public Sector Open to Innovation and Czech Craftsmanship
The use of 100% recycled plastic in such a representative space of local government demonstrates how significantly the perception of sustainable materials in the public sector is shifting. Today, municipalities and institutions are increasingly seeking solutions that combine high aesthetics with an ecological footprint and local origin.
“From the very beginning, all involved parties were aware of the material’s specific properties, the production process, and the fact that Plastic guys is a Czech brand,” adds the architect.
The Ceremonial Hall project in Příbram is proof that circular design and recycled materials do not belong only in industrial or gastro environments. With a sensitive approach, they can carry deep symbolism and dignity, creating a space for life’s most important moments.
- Location: Ceremonial Hall, Příbram
- Design Author: Karnet architekti
- Material: Backlit Mínus panels
- Plastic guys elements: Dominant backlit altar
