The collective house in Zlin is a unique housing project of its time. Though the idea of collective housing reaches into the first three decades of the 20th century, it was first built after World War II. The architect of the one in Zlin was Jiri Vozenilek, who was one of Bata's architects.

As was typical with the collective house type, the units in the building had no kitchens, only a small sink and stove, and the apartments themselves were organized for family living, with one or two private bedrooms. Community amenities included a roof deck, full-service dining room, bar, and a laundry on the ground floor, as well as an elementary school and nursery in an adjoining building.

Stylistically, Vozenilek was more self-conscious than other Zlin architects in his attempt to mimic the factory architecture. The building had a thick, exposed reinforced concrete frame, high-contrast brick infill, and horizontal bands of windows with alternating balconies. The central staircase was enclosed in glass block, an awkward choice for an already busy facade.