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Tina Norden First designed by Eva Jiřičná and now refurbished by Conran and Partners, Prague’s Hotel Maximilian has reopened with a bold, playful new look
O
pened in 1995 and renovated in 2005 by Czech architect Eva Jiřičná, Hotel Maximilian has reopened after a refurbishment
programme by Conran and Partners. Hotel owners Christian and Rudolf Ploberger commissioned Conran and Partners to create contemporary interiors with a ‘clear and compelling personality’ for the 71 bedroom hotel. The Ploberger brothers – who also own the Hotel Josef in Prague – wanted to use the renovation as an opportunity to HOTEL PHOTOS: © MATTHIAS ASCHAUER
contrast Josef’s starker, iconic style with a softer, more playful style at Maximilian. “Maximilian presented us with interesting challenges,” says Tina Norden, partner, Conran and Partners. “It consists of two different buildings with different architectural styles, which are connected on the ground floor by a linear series of previously underutilised public areas. Our challenge was to open up and unify
We have created an approach which is playful, provocative but also functional
these spaces to create a coherent and engaging journey for guests and visitors.” The refurbishment covers the 71 guest rooms, plus the reconfiguration of existing ground floor areas to create new public library and event space with courtyard
which is grounded in the local context.”
“We have created an approach
Teige collage artwork
106 CLADglobal.com 4 2019
“Our aim was to redefine Maximilian with a clear and compelling personality
of the bijou existing basement spa.
features a Karel
including photomontages by Karel Teige.
spaces including a café/bar, brasserie, garden, alongside a full refurbishment
The reception
celebrates the Czech avant-garde movement,
Bespoke lighting elements designed by Conran and Partners, and made by Czech manufacturer Sans Souci, feature throughout
which is playful, provocative but
the public areas and a contemporary
also functional,” says Norden.
chandelier crafted from handmade Czech
“Colour features very strongly in the
glass was created for the living room and
rooms as well, combining a deep blue with
library spaces. Artwork plays a key part
softer highlights and warm oak joinery,
in the design, based on pieces the owners
textured glass, mirror and brass details.
had already, combined with prints of
The bespoke headboards reference the local
iconic Teige collages and contemporary
craft of basket weaving, while the artwork
pieces inspired by his works. l