KOTVA DEPARTMENT STORE
Icon of Prague
The Kotva department store, designed by Vera and Vladimir Machonin and completed in 1975, is a unique example of the progressive architecture of the 1970s. Its hexagonal honeycomb structure, inspired by architectural structuralism, relates to the complex shape of the site and the surrounding historic buildings. Contrasting shapes and materials emphasize its role as a modern landmark in the city center. Now one of the iconic symbols of Czechoslovak modern architecture is undergoing comprehensive renovation.
About the Kotva department store
The Kotva department store, designed by architects Věra and Vladimír Machonin, opened its doors to the public in 1975 as an exceptional work of progressive architecture of the time. This icon of Czechoslovak modernism is currently undergoing extensive renovation. In 2019, the building was listed as a cultural monument.
Since 2020, the building has been owned by Generali Real Estate S.p.A.
"The aim of the revitalization is to restore Kotva's dignity with maximum respect for its historical legacy, sensitively adapt it to the requirements of the 21st century, and at the same time create a sought-after world-class department store," adds Filip Ševčík, Head of Real Estate Investment Management for Central and Eastern Europe, Generali Real Estate.
The reconstruction of the building began in April 2024. Metrostav DIZ first carried out preparatory, dismantling, and demolition work, which continued in 2025 with the remediation of asbestos contamination. Demolition work is currently being completed, and the selection of a general contractor for the subsequent comprehensive reconstruction of the building is underway.
The renovation is scheduled for completion in 2028, when Kotva will be one of the first retail buildings in Central Europe to become a symbol of technological innovation and energy efficiency. The revitalized building will achieve operational carbon neutrality in full compliance with European environmental standards (the so-called EU taxonomy) and will also meet the highest level of BREEAM sustainable certification.
15. 2. 2025
Transformation of Kotva department store
The complete reconstruction is being carried out by Generali Real Estate, a member of the Generali Group, in close cooperation with the original architect Věra Machoninová, her daughter Pavla Kordovská, and the Heritage Department of the Prague City Hall as well as the National Heritage Institute. The project fully respects the architectural value of this important cultural monument while meeting the highest standards of environmental sustainability.
The building interiors will be modernized, and the functionality of the building will be expanded to include six floors of exclusive shops and services as well as two floors of premium quality offices. It also includes the re-cladding of the facades with an emphasis on sustainability and the preservation of the building's original sculptural form, including the iconic brutalist concrete towers and hexagonal structures.
Revitalizing the public space around this significant building is also a key part of the project. The result will be an attractive, functional and safe environment that will contribute to the overall quality of life for the residents of this part of the city with its unique genius loci.
The goal is to restore Kotva department store respecting its history and at the same time transforming it into an exciting world-class destination store. Combining art, culture, digital technology and visionary architecture, KOTVA will offer a huge range of Fashion, Beauty and Lifestyle products and services, including the latest in Czech design and art as well as cafes and restaurants offering the very best of European and Asian food. KOTVA will be a true destination store once again, full of energy and the unexpected, to surprise and delight not only the people of the Czech Republic, but the many visitors who come to Prague from all over Europe and from overseas.
Key milestones - how time has passed
April 2020 – The Generali Group becomes the new owner of Kotva
February 2024 – Kotva is closed to the public and clearance work begins
July 2024 - Final building permit obtained
April 2024 - January 2025 - Preparatory, deconstruction and demolition works
February 2025 - September 2025 - Asbestos remediation
Q4/2025 - Q4/2027 - Complete building reconstruction
Q4/2027 - Expected completion of building modifications
The New Kotva
The people of Prague and its many Visitors can look forward to the opening of the new Kotva in the last quarter of 2027. Then, there will be a famous world class Destination Store in the heart of the city – a Store that will change the face of retailing in Prague.