Despite Karfík’s prominence in modern Czech architecture, his formative experiences in the studios of architectural pioneers are exclusively known from his memoirs in Czech art history.

Petr’s research involves archival work at the locations where Karfík practised, including Le Corbusier’s studio in Paris and Frank Lloyd Wright’s home and studio in Taliesin, whose archives are now located in Chicago and New York, respectively. Through a detailed analysis of these materials, Petr’s project aims to reconstruct a comprehensive picture of Karfík’s activities in these studios and return his work within an international context where it belongs by connecting his Czech work not only to French models but also revealing American inspirations, as evidenced by Karfík’s own house. This research will also uncover previously unknown circumstances surrounding Karfík’s formative experiences. It will illuminate his architectural evolution and contribute to a broader understanding of modern Czech architecture.

Although this research project is an essential part of Petr’s PhD, it also presents an opportunity to study current international professional literature and consult with leading world experts, enriching the scholarly discourse on the subject.