International Competition Proposed to Redesign Miloš Forman Square

The owners of the former Intercontinental Hotel in Prague have proposed an international architectural and urban planning competition to reimagine Miloš Forman Square, located next to the iconic hotel. 

The competition’s approval depends on the support of Prague 1’s local government. While Prague city councilors have already endorsed the idea, the Prague 1 councilors are expected to vote on the matter on January 28.

If approved, the competition will take place under the auspices of the Czech Chamber of Architects, with CCEA MOBA handling its organization. Architect Igor Kovačević from CCEA MOBA highlighted the complexities of the project, stating,

“This is a unique challenge. The square is located above an underground car park and technical spaces, which must be integrated without compromising the quality of the public space.” The competition will prioritize innovative and contemporary solutions that cater to both local residents and visitors to Prague’s Old Town.

History of the Square and Controversy

Miloš Forman Square, named in 2018 after the renowned Czech director, has been at the center of debate. In 2019, the R2G family office—owned by entrepreneurs Oldřich Šlemr, Eduard Kučera, and Pavel Baudiš—purchased the hotel and its surroundings. Reconstruction efforts began soon after, including plans for a new commercial building and updates to the square.

However, the proposal sparked significant opposition from local residents, Prague 1 authorities, and the municipality. The Ministry of Regional Development eventually annulled the zoning decision for the proposed construction, citing inconsistencies with the zoning plan.

Recently, Prague city officials approved a zoning plan change submitted by the hotel owners that would allow construction, paving the way for the competition.

A New Name for a Historic Hotel

The Intercontinental Hotel, built between 1968 and 1974 in the brutalist architectural style, holds a prominent place in Prague’s history as the first five-star international hotel in the former Czechoslovakia.

Following extensive renovations, the hotel is set to reopen next year under the management of Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, part of the Accor network, with its new name: Fairmont Golden Prague.

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