W Hotel Prague opens to the public
The much-anticipated W Hotel Prague is now open, bringing a blend of authentic historical charm and contemporary luxury to the heart of the Czech capital. The hotel occupies the former Grand Hotel Evropa, an iconic Art Nouveau-style building that opened in 1905. The property offers 161 guestrooms and suites alongside unique features such as a signature W Lounge and a rooftop bar boasting sweeping city views.
Chapman Taylor oversaw the renovation of the hotel’s heritage areas, although the overall architectural design was collaborative. The team worked to merge Prague’s rich history with modern design elements. One of the central design motifs was the concept of the ‘elixir’, a nod to mythical potions of eternal life. This golden elixir theme was infused throughout the property, adding a touch of enchantment from the hotel’s façade to its communal spaces and guestrooms.
In keeping with this magical theme, whimsical references to a ‘fantastical garden’ are woven into the design. The hotel’s entrance flows effortlessly into the reception area, where modern brass metal mesh desks contrast elegantly with Art Nouveau light fixtures. The adjacent atrium, featuring original stucco detailing from 1905 and restored illustrations from 1925, now includes a striking glass installation highlighting the past and present blend.
The W Lounge, the hotel’s social hub, was designed with a central bar framed by fluted columns, inviting guests to relax in a space filled with soft blues, greens, and terracotta furnishings. The Above Rooftop Bar continues the bold design vision with vibrant tile accents, bespoke joinery, and custom-made furniture. Formerly a hotspot for Prague’s elite in the 1920s, the Grand Café was also revived and now features a branch of Le Petit Beefbar by Monaco-based restaurateur Riccardo Giraudi.
Minus One, an underground venue in the hotel’s basement, offers a variety of experiences, from a cocktail bar to a performance space. Hidden behind floor-to-ceiling drapery is a secret speakeasy, providing a more intimate and exclusive atmosphere. A private room with a shimmering golden ceiling is the perfect setting for private dinners.
The hotel’s suites feature bold colour schemes and reflective textures. The standout is the E-Wow Suite, a modern interpretation of a traditional presidential suite. It showcases unique design elements, such as a custom-designed rug and a pendant light by Avroko. The Wow Bohemia Duplex in the Heritage Building blends restored beams and arched windows with a rich grenache colour palette.
W Hotel Prague dynamically fuses Prague’s history with the W brand’s cutting-edge design, offering both locals and visitors a luxurious and enchanting escape in the city.