Matěj Vydra, the lone architect at Škoda Technical Development amidst three thousand employees, has been responsible for notable projects including a footbridge over the Jizera River and the Virtual Development Centre. He believes that leaving ego behind is crucial in the field of architecture, challenging the stereotype of architects as stubborn and closed off to debate. Vydra maintains that ego can stifle progress, especially in an industrial setting like Škoda where efficiency is key to ensuring a return on investment.
As an architect working on the investor side, Vydra plays a vital role in shaping successful outcomes by defining the brief and overseeing external companies to execute it. Collaboration with other architects is a vital aspect of his work, which he believes is key to achieving successful results.
In contrast to his professional surroundings, Vydra finds solace in nature, particularly in the mountains. He enjoys escaping to mountain huts in the Alps, where he observes the sun’s movement across the landscape and draws inspiration for his architectural work. For Vydra, light is a critical element of architecture; this sentiment aligns with renowned architects Louis Kahn and Le Corbusier who considered light as a cornerstone of their designs. By embracing nature and placing collaboration above ego, Vydra brings a unique perspective to his work in architectural development.
Matěj Vydra’s dedication to collaboration over ego has enabled him to achieve remarkable successes at Škoda Technical Development despite being part of a vast team of employees. His work reflects how an open-minded approach can lead to innovative solutions and exceptional outcomes even in an industrial setting like Škoda Technical Development.
