Sir Prague: A Gothic Landmark Reimagined as a Contemporary Design Haven

Nestled in the heart of Prague’s New Town, Sir Prague is more than just a hotel; it is an immersive design experience that celebrates the city’s rich cultural and architectural heritage. Housed in the former Ministry of Coal, a neo-Renaissance building dating back to 1884, the property has been meticulously restored by Linda Boronkay Design Studio. The hotel seamlessly blends historical grandeur with contemporary elegance, offering guests a space where past and present converge in unexpected ways.

A Celebration of Prague’s Architectural Legacy

The building’s Gothic and neo-Renaissance features are preserved throughout, from the striking façade to the grand stonework and ornate ceilings. Linda Boronkay has sensitively layered these historical elements with modern touches inspired by Czech Cubism and Art Nouveau, creating a dynamic dialogue between eras. Geometric shapes, graphic patterns, and a thoughtfully eclectic mix of materials imbue the interiors with an energetic, contemporary aesthetic.

Stepping into the hotel, visitors are immediately struck by the spatial flow, designed to encourage exploration and discovery. The lobby is grand yet welcoming, with antique metals, cubist-inspired motifs, and deep colour palettes reflecting Prague’s iconic red rooftops, the Vltava River, and verdant parks. The covered courtyard glows with delicate trelliswork, lush greenery, and soft lighting, creating an urban oasis ideal for intimate gatherings, private events, or quiet reflection. Here, the interplay of light and shadow adds drama and intimacy, a nod to Prague’s theatrical spirit.

Guest Rooms: A Dialogue Between Craftsmanship and Storytelling

Sir Prague’s 76 rooms and suites are a celebration of craftsmanship and storytelling. Each space features locally sourced vintage Czech furnishings, bespoke embroidered headboards, and whimsical artworks inspired by Czech folklore. The design strikes a balance between heritage and modernity, combining sculptural lighting, rich textures, and carefully curated objects to create rooms that are visually layered yet comfortable.

Bathrooms are flooded with natural light and provide serene views of the Vltava River, while luxurious soaking tubs and elegant finishes elevate everyday routines into moments of indulgence. Every guest room houses pieces from a private Czech art collection, providing a tangible connection to the city’s history and artistic legacy. From Murano chandeliers in the library to handcrafted ironmongery and glassware, every element underscores Prague’s rich tradition of craftsmanship.

As Linda Boronkay explains, “Prague’s beauty lies in its contrasts—history and modernity, grandeur and intimacy. With Sir Prague, I wanted to create a space that captures this duality, evoking both nostalgia and discovery.”

Materials, Textures, and Colour

The interiors of Sir Prague are distinguished by their eclectic mix of materials and textures. Rich velvets, aged leathers, polished metals, and natural stone are layered alongside contemporary geometric patterns, reflecting the city’s cubist architecture. Bold colour palettes, deep burgundy, muted ochres, and sapphire blues, create depth and drama, while subtle touches of green from indoor plants and courtyard landscaping bring freshness and life to the spaces.

The careful balance of contrasts extends to lighting. Sculptural fixtures, including Murano glass chandeliers and bespoke sconces, provide both illumination and artistry, casting patterned shadows that enhance the Gothic and Art Nouveau details of the interiors.

A Cultural and Culinary Hub

Sir Prague is not only a visual delight but also a cultural and culinary destination. The multifunctional library offers a sanctuary for contemplation and creativity, where guests can immerse themselves in literature, art, or quiet conversation. The tranquil courtyard, meanwhile, serves as a hidden oasis amid the urban bustle, perfect for morning coffee, late-night cocktails, or a reflective pause in the day.

Culinary experiences at the hotel are equally considered. The upcoming Seven North Restaurant, an award-winning concept from Vienna led by renowned chef Eyal Shani, offers a fresh, playful approach to Mediterranean cuisine. Bold flavours, seasonal ingredients, and inventive presentation combine to create a menu that is both inviting and energising, matching the hotel’s overall design ethos of blending heritage with contemporary flair.

Curated Art and Local Craftsmanship

Further reinforcing the hotel’s artistic identity, Sir Prague features a thoughtfully curated selection of contemporary Czech artworks across its ground-floor spaces. Curated by Karina Kottová, Ph.D., the collection bridges historical influences with modern interpretations. Mythological and historical motifs grace the library, dynamic movement-inspired works enliven the bar, architectural references adorn the reception, and representations of food and nature enrich the restaurant. Each piece tells a story, creating an immersive environment where art, design, and hospitality converge.

Locally crafted furnishings and bespoke objects further root the hotel in Prague’s cultural fabric. From hand-embroidered textiles to sculptural lighting and custom furniture, every detail has been selected to celebrate Czech craftsmanship and heritage, while providing guests with a sense of place and narrative.

Exploring the Surroundings

Situated near Prague’s Dancing House and the Vltava River, Sir Prague offers a perfect base for travellers seeking both culture and design inspiration. Guests can explore the city’s historic streets, Gothic and Baroque architecture, and vibrant arts scene, then return to the hotel to unwind in an environment that mirrors the city’s eclectic character. The combination of historic grandeur, contemporary design, and artistic curation ensures that every stay is both memorable and immersive.

The Sir Prague Experience

Sir Prague transcends the traditional hotel experience. It is a living canvas where architecture, design, art, and hospitality intersect. Every room, corridor, and public space has been designed to invite curiosity, reflection, and engagement. From the layered textures and playful patterns to the carefully chosen artworks and lighting, the hotel encourages guests to slow down, appreciate the details, and connect with the spirit of Prague.

For design lovers, culture seekers, and discerning travellers, Sir Prague is more than a destination; it is a soulful, engaging, and visually spectacular journey through the artistic and architectural heritage of one of Europe’s most inspiring cities. It is a hotel where every element has a story, every corner invites discovery, and every stay leaves an impression of Prague’s timeless charm.

Sir Prague stands as a testament to thoughtful design, where historical richness meets contemporary innovation, and where guests can experience the city in a way that is deeply personal, richly immersive, and utterly unforgettable.

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