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Date:
1 Sept 2025
The Rebirth of Villa Heller: A Story of a Coincidence that Became a Mission
It was supposed to be a regular property purchase for an organisation in Ústí. It later turned out to be an architectural gem – the unique Heller villa by Hans Richter. Instead of a quick renovation, we faced a challenging yet fascinating journey to restore this unique jewel, which will celebrate its centenary in 2026.
Everything began in 2024 when HPKD Project a.s. purchased a property in Ústí nad Labem with the original intention of using it for a local organisation. It later became clear what an extraordinary building it was. At the address Rooseveltova 1815/4 stood the unique Heller villa, a work of the significant architect Hans Richter (1882–1971).
This discovery changed everything. The owner of the company and also the founder of NFMD, Martina Dryk, decided to reconsider the original plan and to reconstruct the Heller villa with full respect for its history while preserving its unique elements. Subsequently, she purchased another property for the organisation. The board then decided to change the seat of the fund to this address and to transfer the ownership rights to NFMD.
From ruin to a new vision
Villa Heller has gone through a turbulent history. During the communist era, when it housed the StB among other things, the interior and exterior were significantly damaged. Even after the revolution, no adequate use was found for such a large building, which was demanding in terms of maintenance and operation, and the villa continued to deteriorate. However, this is now changing. A team of professionals has formed around the villa, who are restoring it to its original form with humility and precision.
The architectural team has developed project documentation with regard to the future multipurpose use of the building. Currently, regular meetings are taking place between the architects, representatives of the Hraničář association, and our coordinator. Together, they are fine-tuning the final details of the interior so that it perfectly meets the needs of the Hraničář association, which will become the main user of the three lower floors and the adjacent garden. The fourth floor, which has its own entrance through a side spiral staircase, will offer additional space for offices or studios.
We are building it again and honestly.
Until November 2025, necessary demolition work took place at the site, after which only the outer walls essentially remained of the villa. The team of experts could then begin the reconstruction and approached it very sensitively and precisely - the Heller villa is being built practically from the ground up. Already after the first construction modifications, it was clear that something exceptional was being born before our eyes. Watching the dedication and commitment with which everyone approaches the work is an unforgettable experience. We firmly believe that the reconstruction will be completed by the end of 2026. This would allow us to celebrate the centenary of the villa, which was built between 1924 and 1926, with dignity.
Rare visit and return to the roots
The pre-Christmas period, specifically December 23, 2025, brought a remarkable event to the Heller villa. The building was visited by Mrs Hebeda-Anzel, the wife of a direct descendant of the Heller family, along with her daughter Daniela and granddaughter. This visit had been planned for a long time and was agreed upon in writing with Martina Dryk. Even though Martina was unable to attend in person, modern technology and a sent group photograph allowed us to share this moment from afar – from Munich and Prague.
Mrs Hebeda-Anzel brought with her true treasures – historical photographs from celebratory dinners, original plans, descriptions of interiors, and calculations from 1938. Our colleagues, historians, architects, and builders ensured a guided tour for the distinguished guests.
Part of the visit also included a journey to the monumental tomb of the Heller family in Svádov, where their country estate was located. The NFMD has decided to also take this monument under its care. Its preservation is a heartfelt wish not only of Mrs Hebeda-Anzel but also of the last living member of the Heller family, Mr Jürgen Ginzel, the son of Mrs Erika Ginzel, born in the Sudetes. It is our honour to care for the legacy of this family in all its breadth.