Heritage elegance meets the fantastical at new W Prague

W Hotels first property in the Czech Republic showcases head-turning design while honouring its building’s heritage roots

W Hotels has launched its first property in the Czech Republic with the opening of W Prague, a revitalisation of the historic Grand Hotel Evropa on Wenceslas Square. The new hotel integrates the building’s storied Art Nouveau heritage with W’s signature contemporary design, creating a hotel that aims to honour its past while offering a unique and dynamic offering in the historic city.

The redesign is the work of an international team of architects and designers, including Benoy, AvroKO, Chapman Taylor, and Prague-based DAM studio. The project combines meticulous restoration of the original structure with the addition of a sleek, nine-story wing in an exercise that emphasises a dialogue between the city’s historic architecture and contemporary trends. The historic building’s original tones – earthy yellows, greens and terracotta – are preserved, while the new wing introduces bold, modern lines and reflective materials typical of the W brand, creating a striking visual contrast.

A central theme of the design is the “Elixir”, a concept symbolising a blend of tradition and innovation, visible throughout the property. This is most apparent in the “Fantastical Garden”, a corridor connecting the old and new buildings. Designed by London-based Adam Ellis Studio, the space is adorned with embroidered botanical motifs, sculptural lighting and whimsical details designed to evoke a sense of discovery and continuity. The Minus One cocktail lounge showcases gold-plastered ceilings and lacquered green walls.

Art installations throughout the hotel are integral to its visual storytelling, with works by local and international artists  on show. The historic stucco ceiling in the atrium features an eye-catching crystal installation by Preciosa Lighting, while a bold mural by Czech artist Michael Škapa in the W Lounge Garden contrasts with the subdued palette of the surrounding décor.

Guest accommodations also reflect this blend of heritage and modernity. The 161 rooms and suites incorporate a variety of textures and colors, balancing contemporary design with references to the property’s Art Nouveau origins. In the heritage wing, rooms such as the WOW Bohemia Duplex feature restored architectural elements, including decorative beams and skylights, while the new wing offers more streamlined, modern interiors.

Dining options at W Prague include Le Petit Beefbar, an upscale bistro offering sharing plates with premium meats, in the restored Grand Café, along with social space W Lounge and Bisou, a relaxed café. The Above Rooftop bar offers panoramic city views and seasonal drinks, while Minus One, located in the basement, houses a speakeasy, private tasting room, and performance venue, with an immersive cocktail scene curated by award-winning mixologist Jan Šebek.

W’s signature AWAY Spa offers the WET pool and a multisensory thermal suite, with a state-of-the-art FIT gym also on-site.

W Prague joins W Rome and W Budapest W in the list of new hotels debuting as part of W Hotels’ ongoing European expansion,

wprague.com