Renovations at dormitories: New windows at Vinařská, new entrance at Bří. Žůrků
Masaryk University is planning to spend approximately CZK 422 million for renovations of its dormitories over the period of 2020–2025. “Since 2020 the new management of Accommodation and Catering Services (ACS) has been doing its best to improve the comfort of our accommodation facilities. Aside from the renovation budget we have allocated resources for emergency and ad hoc repair and maintenance or wall painting,” says ACS director Kamil Kulíšek.
Construction works and interior renovations continued at most dormitories over the autumn months. They included the replacement of old windows and thermal insulation of the façade at Vinařská, the latter of which has already resulted in energy savings.
“In September we started with the first stage of replacement of the original windows from the 1980’s and the installation of new windows with triple glazing which required some masonry work. At the moment all windows are installed, including blinds. This year we are planning to work on three sections the connecting hallway, the remaining three should be finished during the first half of 2024. One-half of the building already has new thermal insulation with silicon plaster,” says Věra Benžová from the Infrastructure Development Office.
Repair works are still underway on the roof at the Vinařská dormitory after the hail storm in May of this year. “The hail stones damaged roof foil insulation and water started to leak in. The repairs are planned in coordination with our insurance company for the next year, once the weather improves. The roof has been secured and the most pressing issues regarding its condition were addressed,” says Jana Fillová from the Department of Technical Services and Information Technologies at ACS.
After the complete replacement of electrical installation and the supply of furnishing in the summer of 2023 works are nearing completion at the Mánesova dormitory. “This year a series of micropiles was installed to strengthen the substructure. It should continue next year alongside the strengthening of the shell of the building,” says Michaela Jabůrková from the Infrastructure Development Office.
Large-scale renovations of the Kounicova dormitory started in November. Scheduled to last two years, its total costs are estimated at CZK 250 million. Students will move in for the 2025/26 academic year. “Right now furnishings and flooring are in the process of removal,” says Marcela Dvořáková from the Infrastructure Development Office.
Following the renovation of the roof terrace at Bří. Žůrků during summer only some finishing work was carried out in the fall months. “A new entrance ramp with comfortable staircase connected to pavement. A new mechanical ramp was installed for wheelchair access. The renovation also included a new foyer with improved thermal comfort, which includes automatic door and hot air curtain. New efficient lighting was installed as well,” says Pavel Šulák from the Infrastructure Development Office, commenting on the improvements.
Scheduled to start in May 2024 is the second stage of the replacement of the roof terrace at Bří. Žůrků with the investment amounting to CZK 700 thousand, along with new furniture for CZK 22 million. These renovation works shall last from 1 May until 15 September, affecting 429 students staying there. “Students with accommodation contracts until 30 June will be given the opportunity to move to a different dormitory by 30 April. We will try our best to make it as convenient as possible in terms of rooms available elsewhere. Students moving to more expensive dormitories will not be charged extra,” says ACS director Kamil Kulíšek.
