Dancing House (Prague)

The Nationale-Nederlanden building is one of central Europe's most unusual and playful examples of modern architecture. Located at Resslova street alongside the Vltava River in Prague, it has acquired the nickname of ‘the Dancing House’ as its overall shape resembles a pair of dancers, and it is often dubbed the 'Fred and Ginger Building' by locals. Constructed in 1996 by the Czech architects Vlado Milunc and Frank Gehry, it has daring, curvy outlines which contrast starkly with Prague’s famous Gothic and Art Nouveau buildings. Holiday-makers on Prague short breaks will delight at its unconventional design and shape, and jump at the chance for that all-important photo.

 

The Dancing House can be described as deconstructionist style architecture. It features a glass tower which bends and clings at a 45 degree angle to a standard concrete tower, topped by a large metal ‘cupola’, which is said to represent the head of Fred Estaire. Unsurprisingly, when first completed it caused quite a stir amongst locals and has only recently become an architectural icon. It was awarded the coveted design award from Time magazine on its completion and should definitely be included on a Prague short break for any budding artists, designers and those with an interest in culture.

 

The Dancing House was commissioned by the Dutch Bank ING and is still a functional office building that is not officially open to the public. This shouldn't stop you visiting, as you can enjoy lovely views of the city and the Vltava River from its elegant French restaurant situated on the top floor of this memorable nine storey building. Many Prague weekend break city tours call in at the Dancing House for a quick photo opportunity, but many take a stroll around here to contemplate the historic cobbled quayside on which it is sited, as well as the many fine examples of baroque architecture nearby.