How a UNESCO-protected building in Prague’s historic core was converted for modern office occupation.
The project in context
An early heritage-led project that converted and refurbished a UNESCO-protected building in Prague’s historic core for contemporary office use.
In an established urban setting, the existing building and street pattern are part of the brief. The goal is not to remove that identity, but to make it compatible with a credible contemporary use.
Adaptive reuse gives heritage a future by making it useful in the present.
Balancing continuity and change
The conversion works within a highly sensitive historic setting, introducing a viable new use while respecting the building’s protected character.
Heritage-led development relies on clear priorities: retain the qualities that make the address distinctive, improve the parts that limit present-day use, and integrate new work without overwhelming the original fabric.
Giving heritage a durable future
Protected buildings remain relevant when their character is supported by practical occupation, maintainable systems, and flexible spaces. Continued use is one of the strongest forms of long-term conservation.
For Karlova, long-term relevance comes from protecting the project’s defining idea while allowing its spaces, operation, and relationship with Prague historic core to respond as needs evolve.
