SAS has published the winning designs for three buildings on the future science campus in Patrónka
The Slovak Academy of Sciences (SAS) has taken another significant step in transforming its Patrónka premises into a modern, functional, and open science campus. The winners of the architectural competitions for three new buildings have been announced: the SAS Headquarters building, the SAS Social Sciences Pavilion, and the SAS Centre for Experimental Medicine Pavilion.
The architectural competitions followed the urban and landscape master plan for the campus, developed through an international competition in 2023 and now serving as the long-term development framework for the SAS campus. The goal is to end years of fragmented construction, improve working conditions for researchers, and create an environment that fosters collaboration, innovation, and openness to the public.
"The revitalisation of the SAS campus in Patrónka is not merely a construction project. It is an investment in the quality of research, the working environment, and the future of Slovakia as a knowledge-based country," said Martin Venhart, President of the Slovak Academy of Sciences.
All three competitions ran from September to December 2025. They were anonymous, international, and officially verified by the Slovak Chamber of Architects. A total of 37 design proposals were evaluated. The jury consisted of independent, renowned experts in architecture and urban planning, complemented by representatives of the Slovak Academy of Sciences.
"The winning designs further develop the concept of a modern campus defined by the urban study, while, through their high architectural quality, building upon the original architecture of the complex, which leading Slovak architects designed," noted Henrieta Moravčíková, Chief Architect of the Slovak Academy of Sciences.
Winners of the individual architectural competitions
SAS Headquarters Building
Winner: ohboi, s. r. o.
The new Headquarters building is intended to serve as a prominent landmark at the complex's entrance and as a symbol of a unified, open academy. The jury appreciated its clear urban placement, flexible interior layout, and strong support for teamwork.
SAS Social Sciences Pavilion
Winner: MAPA architekti, s. r. o.
The pavilion will bring together social science institutes that are currently dispersed across Bratislava in unsuitable facilities. The design stands out for its high-quality ground-floor concept, generous natural lighting, and creation of smaller community-oriented workspaces.
SAS Centre for Experimental Medicine Pavilion
Winner: Pelčák a partner architekti, s. r. o.
The building will complement the biomedical cluster within the complex. The jury highlighted its efficient operational layout, high-quality laboratory and workspaces, as well as its technological readiness and flexibility of use.
The Slovak Academy of Sciences plans to exhibit all competition designs, together with the jury's evaluations, at the Patrónka campus. It will also enter into direct negotiations with the winners of each competition to develop the proposals into feasibility studies and, subsequently, into complete project documentation.
Construction of the new buildings is tentatively planned for 2028–2030. It represents a key step toward creating a fully developed science campus that will provide dignified conditions for researchers, attract young talent, and strengthen the international competitiveness of Slovak science.
PHOTO GALLERY FROM THE PRESS CONFERENCE
Complete architectural documentation for all three winning designs:
· SAS Social Sciences Pavilion
· SAS Centre for Experimental Medicine Pavilion
Prepared by: Jozef Bednár
Photo: Martin Bystriansky
Video: Matej Pok
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