The administrative center of the former Prefa panel factory in Prague’s Holešovice district is a remarkable example of 1960s industrial architecture, distinguished by its technical and artistic qualities. The building—a multi-story tower with a striking suspended steel structure—was originally designed as the social and administrative facilities for the factory. The tower rises above a horizontal base that once housed a canteen and features a sawtooth skylight evoking the atmosphere of industrial halls. The building remained in operation until 2013, after which it fell into disrepair and faced the threat of demolition or conversion into an underground parking garage and standard office space.

In 2023, we took it over with the aim of preserving what is most valuable about the structure—its industrial character and technical elegance. The renovation highlights the original lightweight suspended façade, minimalist color scheme, and the lightness of the tower. Architects placed strong emphasis on expressing the structure, the rhythm and transparency of the façade, and restoring the connection between the interior and exterior. Large-scale glazing was introduced, and original artworks referencing the site’s manufacturing history were returned to the space. A key part of the new studio is a large architectural model workshop. In this way, the Panelárna returns to its original purpose: once again, it is a space for design and creation. At the same time, the building is gradually being opened to the public as a new cultural and community venue.

The first phase of the renovation has been completed. The full transformation of the building, including the tower, is expected to be finished within five years.