Gerbecova vila Villa

Gerbecova vila, located in Zlín in Zálešná district, is a representative of functional style from the beginning of the 20th century. It was built between 1937 and 1938 according to the design by architect Vladimir Karfik, who was inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright. Originally she served as a family house for Louis Gerbec, one of the managers of Bata. After 1948 it was adapted for various purposes, including nursery and day service centre for seniors.

The villa was established between two world wars, where intensive architectural and cultural development took place. In Czechoslovakia, for example, the development of new urban districts and progress in construction has shown this trend. Gerbecova vila is one of the few buildings that exceed the standard backpack type of double houses.

The architecture of the villa was influenced by the horizontally inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright. The construction is built from unbraided paired masonry and has a characteristic flat valb roof. The villa was built in 1937 and a year later expanded. Architect Vladimír Karfík, who worked with Frank Lloyd Wright in 1928-1929, used the horizontal elements in his design.

Owning and managing the villa has undergone several changes. The original owner was Ludvík Gerbec, who ordered construction with architect Karfik. After 1948, as a result of political changes, the house was set up by a nursery of the national enterprise Svit for 33 children. Over the years there have been other modifications and ports that have affected the original composition of the house.

Among the key events in the history of the villa is the completion of the construction in 1938 and its entry on the list of real cultural monuments in 2001. The villa was also adapted for various purposes, including the day service centre for seniors.

Today Gerbecova vila is accessible as a cultural monument and is worth visiting thanks to its historical and architectural value. Its unique design and rich history make it interesting for lovers of architecture and history.

Gerbecova vila is a reminder of an innovative approach to construction, which was promoted in the first half of the 20th century. Its adaptation to various purposes shows the flexibility and durability of architectural solutions at the time. Visiting this building offers an opportunity to explore not only the history of one villa, but also the wider cultural and architectural context of the period between two world wars.