W Hotels has announced the opening of W Prague, marking the brand’s entry into the Czech Republic.
The opening is the start of a new chapter for the former Grand Hotel Evropa, an Art Nouveau-style property on Wenceslas Square. The hotel comprises 161 guestrooms and suites, as well as a signature W Lounge and rooftop bar with sweeping cityscape views.
Architects Benoy and Avroko’s London studio have worked in collaboration with local designers Chapman Taylor to reimagine the building, drawing inspiration from Prague’s cultural richness and the property’s Art Nouveau roots. The colour palette draws on the original tones of the protected heritage building, including natural earthy hues of yellow, beige, terracotta, dark grey and a unique green for the stucco decorations.
Alongside meticulous restoration, a newbuild project has seen the addition of a 9-storey contemporary elliptical shaped wing, designed by architectural studio Dam.
Inteirors also draw on the magical concept of the ‘elixir’ – with Prague often referred to as the ‘City of Gold’, allusions to a golden elixir are woven throughout the design, from the building’s façade to its interiors.
The design incorporates whimsical and escapist elements through both the heritage and new wing. Connecting the two, a corridor is draped with a unique faux embroidery by London-based studio Adam Ellis, inspired by elements of a magical garden, featuring flora and fauna embellishments including tall grasses, weaving botanicals, hummingbirds, bees and butterflies enhanced by floral chandeliers by Preciosa Lighting.
Encapsulating the hotel’s vision of both tradition and modernity, its 161 guestrooms, including 23 suites, feature striking colours and reflective textures throughout. The E-Wow Suite, the brand’s modern interpretation of a presidential suite, echoes the architecture of the new building whilst embracing Art Nouveau details. The Wow Bohemia Duplex meanwhile, located in the heritage building, features restored beams and decorative arch windows, finished in a deep grenache colour palette. An oversized curtain lends a theatrical air that accentuates the suite’s double height ceilings, while creating a sanctuary on the upper floor. Skylights allow natural light into the restored loft-like space, while plaster-finished walls hark back to the building’s illustrious legacy.
Striking art and glass installations at W Prague, curated by Adam Ellis Studio and a number of local artists, have been designed to enhance the guest experience and spark conversation. Highlights include psychedelic wall art at the bar, Bisou, and a whimsical garden mural by Michael Škapa, which is the centrepiece of W Lounge Garden.
“The opening of W Prague promises travellers an unexpected and engaging hotel experience in the heart of one of Europe’s most cultured and lively cities,” says Helen Leighton, Vice President of Luxury Brands & Communications, EMEA for Marriott International. “We look forward to our guests immersing themselves in this creative city and experiencing its charm through the hotel’s striking design, innovative dining concepts, and exceptional guest service.”
CREDITS
Photography: © Jiri Lizler
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