Baťa's Skyscraper, Zlín

Baťa's Skyscraper, also known as the Baťa Building, is an architectural landmark nestled in the heart of Zlín, Czech Republic. This 77-meter-tall building was constructed in 1938 as the headquarters for the Baťa Shoe Company, one of the world's leading footwear manufacturers of the time. Its construction was part of a larger vision by the company's founder, Tomáš Baťa, to create a functionalist city that would cater to the needs of his employees and the growth of his business.

The Skyscraper, designed by architect Vladimír Karfík, stands as a testament to the innovative spirit of the early 20th century. It was one of the first high-rise buildings to be constructed in Europe and featured a unique structural system that allowed for flexibility and expansion. The building's design included a steel framework with a grid of interchangeable office units, which could be added or removed according to the company's needs.

The building's exterior is characterized by its simple, clean lines and a facade of large windows that reflect the functionalist ethos of form following function. Inside, the original interiors have been preserved to a great extent, offering a glimpse into the industrial and social history of the period.

One of the most remarkable features of Baťa's Skyscraper is its "fast" elevator, which was considered a technological marvel at the time of its installation. It was designed to enable Tomáš Baťa to quickly move between floors and even had the capability to fit his car, so he could drive right into the building and up to his office.

Today, Baťa's Skyscraper serves as a cultural and administrative center. While it is no longer the headquarters of the Baťa Shoe Company, it remains an emblem of the company's once vast empire. Visitors can explore the building and learn about its history and the legacy of the Baťa company through guided tours that offer insights into this iconic structure's past and present.