The iconic “Prague Cubes” designed by architect Karel Prager are set to undergo a comprehensive renovation. The project is expected to cost around CZK 1.4 billion.
The refurbishment of the headquarters of the Institute for Planning and Development of the Capital City of Prague (IPR) is taking shape: the project, located not far from the Emmaus Monastery (Emauzský klášter), is projected to cost CZK 1.39 billion, including planning. The contract was awarded to construction companies PORR and Metrostav DIZ, which will be responsible not only for construction but also for the entire project planning.
According to the contract, the planning phase is expected to last about one and a half years before construction work begins — the building phase itself is expected to take around two years. Total costs have not yet been definitively fixed. A decisive factor will be the condition of the buildings’ internal structures, which have never been renovated.
The contract was awarded under the so-called “design-and-build” procedure, where planning and construction are managed by a single party. For the refurbishment, the city also received a grant of CZK 320 million from the Modernisation Fund. Around CZK 147 million is earmarked for planning, with the remainder allocated to construction.
Sensitive Approach to Architectural Heritage
Implementation was delayed partly due to concerns from Finance Councillor Zdeněk Kovářík, who criticised the projected costs. In addition, the tender process had to be repeated due to proceedings at the competition authority. IPR Director Boháč emphasises that work is ongoing to identify potential savings.
“Our goal is a sensitive reconstruction of the site. We respect Karel Prager’s original design and deliberately aim to reflect it,” said Boháč. Benedikt Markel from the architecture firm IXA, which contributed to the refurbishment study, also highlights the challenge: the buildings are particularly energy inefficient – a complete renewal of the façades, ventilation, and cooling systems is therefore essential.
