atypical gable roof replaces dome frescoes in czech brick-covered chapel

Karel Filsak Architects design cylindrical chapel in Czechia

In Fryšták, Czechia, Zdeněk Rothbauer and the Karel Filsak Architects, introduce a chapel dedicated to Saint Anthony of Padua. This cylindrical structure, crafted from raw brick, draws inspiration from early Christian churches with circular floor plans. Emphasizing simplicity and humility, the design incorporates circles, Greek crosses, and exposed brickwork. The chapel features an atypical gable roof atop its cylindrical form replacing the traditional dome frescoes found in conventional churches. This design choice allows a canopy of light to filter through geometric structures in the roof and creates a striking contrast between tradition and innovation. 

all images by Studio Flusser

atypical gable roof tops Chapel of St Anthony of Padua

The material choice and geometric forms of the chapel reflect the values of the Franciscan Order, emphasizing essential humility. The expressive use of circles in the design symbolizes the cyclical nature of life and the universe. Serving as a sanctuary for quiet contemplation, the chapel embodies Franciscan values such as poverty, renunciation of privileges, solitude, and learning. According to Karel Filsak, the chapel respects its material and historical context, industrial aesthetics, and landscape character, achieving boldness through humility and simplicity.

Inside, the chapel’s austerity is evident with unplastered walls and minimal furnishings. The Czech architects opted for brick as the primary building material, used throughout the perimeter wall, benches, tiles, and paving. This creates a harmonious and abstract composition conducive to silent meditation. Greek cross relief serves as an indirect source of artificial light, with all details meticulously tailored to the circular floor plan. The furnishings—including an ambon, bench, hanging light, and stand with a lily vase—symbolically underscore Saint Anthony’s authenticity and humility, enhancing the chapel’s contemplative and serene atmosphere. The interior’s emptiness is significant, enhancing intimacy and drawing visitors’ gaze upwards. The roof, constructed of galvanized steel, appears to touch the brickwork in only two places, supported by skylights divided into twelve columns, imparting a sense of balance and tranquility.

early Christian churches with circular floor plans inspire the layout of the chapel

the galvanized steel roof appears to touch the brickwork in only two places

raw brick covers the cylindrical structure

Greek crosses and exposed brickwork adorn the wall

the chapel respects its material and historical context, industrial aesthetics, and landscape character

a canopy of light replaces traditional frescoes and domes

the furnishings symbolically underscore Saint Anthony’s authenticity and humility

Greek cross relief serves as an indirect source of artificial light

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the material choice and geometric forms reflect the values of the Franciscan Order

Franciscan values such as poverty, renunciation of privileges, solitude, and learning inspire the concept

the chapel's boldness is achieved through humility and simplicity

intimate, symbolic lighting evokes divine presence

the skylights are divided into twelve columns

distinctive gable roof tops the cylindrical form

project info:

name: The Chapel of St Anthony of Padua in Fryšták
architect: Karel Filsak Architects, Zdeněk Rothbauer (1941), Karel Filsak (1985) 
collaborators: Vendula Bažová 
location: Fryšták, Moravia, Czechia

area: 18 sqm
photographer: Studio Flusser | @studioflusser

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edited by: thomai tsimpou | designboom