The monument is a form that refers to the power of fire itself. To the power that is capable of transforming raw materials into noble materials. To the power that is an integral part of every steel mill.

The result is two six-meter-high slabs made of fireclay bricks, the basic building block of every furnace. Their structure and combination with steel plates create the effect of a monumental jewel. This pure and simple form is then completed by fire itself, which leaves a unique organic painting on its surface with its elemental force. The difference between these two monuments is the type of alloy used. In the case of Karl Wittgenstein, it is stainless steel, which was a significant global invention within his steelworks. This element also has the special property of changing color when heated, thus emphasizing and highlighting the mark left by the fire.

The memorial also includes a design for a tree-lined avenue and stone benches, which complement the local landscape and enhance the tribute to the two personalities. 

The pedestrian walkway is designed to respect the logic of the existing path and, at the same time, to add dignity to the site 
with the memorial through its material, granite stone.
Kladno, Czech Republic
2024

w/ Jan Žalský, Tomáš Nováček