KCAP wins JTRE competition for iconic Bratislava skyscrapers

The Bratislava skyline is set to be transformed as renowned Dutch architectural studio KCAP emerges victorious in JTRE’s international urban-architectural competition for the Eurovea City Concept Design. KCAP’s innovative vision for two striking skyscrapers was selected by an expert jury, surpassing entries from globally acclaimed studios, including Delugan Meissl Associated Architects, Dominique Perrault Architecte, Gensler, and AE7 & GFI.

KCAP’s winning design features two slender towers, standing 260 meters and 184 meters tall, that reimagine traditional high-rise architecture. Instead of monolithic structures, the towers are envisioned as a cluster of elegant, tapering volumes with distinctive stepped crowns and panoramic windows, forming a dynamic addition to Bratislava’s downtown. The development will complement the existing Eurovea Tower (168m), creating a sophisticated vertical cluster that adheres to Bratislava’s Urban Study of Height Zoning and adds a contemporary vibrancy to the city’s silhouette.

The expert jury, chaired by Michal Sedláček, professor and former chief architect of Brno, praised KCAP’s design for its innovative approach, aesthetic harmony, and commitment to sustainability. The proposal integrates the towers seamlessly into Bratislava’s urban fabric while enhancing its visual identity and architectural prestige.

“The winning design stood out for its aesthetic and functional qualities, harmonizing with the existing urban environment while elevating Bratislava’s skyline with a contemporary touch. These skyscrapers will become iconic landmarks, signaling a progressive approach to urbanism and boosting the city’s appeal to investors and visitors alike,” Sedláček noted.

The KCAP-designed skyscrapers will feature over 1,000 residential units, making them two of the tallest residential buildings in the European Union. The towers will showcase warm metallic façades that subtly reflect light, adapting their appearance with changing weather and time of day.

Connected by glass base pavilions offering amenities and community spaces, the development emphasizes integration between architecture and nature. Inspired by the flowing forms of the nearby Danube River, the design incorporates a lush 7,300-square-meter green area, significantly expanding the planned open space in the Eurovea City district.

Sustainability is central to the project, with innovative systems that reduce concrete usage, optimize construction, and minimize carbon emissions. “With this project, we aim to set a new benchmark for high-rise living—blending architectural ambition with sustainable innovation,” said Jeroen Dirckx, KCAP Partner.

The competition attracted world-class architects, tasked with envisioning high-rises that would elevate Bratislava’s cityscape while integrating into a sustainable urban district. The jury included Bratislava’s Chief Architect Juraj Šujan, renowned architect Hadi Teherani, and JTRE’s Executive Director Pavel Pelikán.

Pelikán expressed satisfaction with the breadth of submissions: “We sought visionary designs from renowned architects experienced in high-rise projects. KCAP’s proposal not only meets these criteria but also redefines Bratislava’s urban profile with bold, sustainable landmarks.”

KCAP, based in Rotterdam, Zurich, and Paris, collaborated with British engineering firm Buro Happold to deliver the winning concept. Known for expertise in urban planning and architecture, KCAP brings together a global team of over 100 professionals focused on creating innovative solutions for growing cities.

The Bratislava skyscrapers promise to be transformative, establishing a new standard for high-rise design in Europe. As construction begins, the project is set to bolster Bratislava’s global architectural standing and further its reputation as a dynamic, forward-thinking European capital.