sng_2016-05-12_high-single-crop_k3

The commission discussed these expert opinions with the
architect on 1 July, and 14 July 1967 was set as deadline for
checking on project adjustments. Dedeček, responding to the
opinions and the discussion, prepared over these 14 days a new
alternative design (second area alternative, with third alternative
for the Danube wing). In his new Technical report he stated:
“Comrade Ing. arch. Svetko expressed reservations to the 4 m
under-passage under the mass of exhibit spaces [i.e. to the
colonnade in the Danube wing parterre], which in his opinion
did not sufficiently visually connect the Taranda spaces with the
riverbank’s; further, compared to the architectural solution of
enclosing the SNG atrium with the new building, the proposal
is not sufficiently organic.” 22 Dedeček reacted by raising the
space under the Danube wing, creating: “... a 3-level bridge in
front of the current [historical building’s] SNG, enabling visual
connection between viewers by the Danube and the entire
SNG space, which would then be visible up to the cornice
(given that the courtyard vegetation so allows). The height of
the opening [under the bridging is now] approximately 7.80 m.
There are no supports in this space, enhancing the perception
of the courtyard. (...) A courtyard spectator sees the new and
old roofs at almost the same angle. This also improves the access
of sunlight to the atrium; at the same time, this change
reduces the total floor space, and one level is eliminated by
increasing the opening. (...) Though the experts’ suggestions
are at odds with the opinion of the jury and the advisory body of
studies [of the architects’ association], I accept them because
they reduce expenses, which in this situation will seem beneficial.
I believe this had led me to a more interesting conception,
with a similar volume composition for all sections.” 23
Thus the Danube wing’s new space and arrangement came
about through elimination of the lowest storeys, and a new
conception of design of exposition spaces (the 3-storey wing
became an open hall divided into 3 levels of ascending walkways).
This new design also called for a new steel construction
free of middle supports. The composition of the “bridging’s”
30