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.

7. 11. 2025

Asbestos remediation at Kotva department store successfully completed. Safely, transparently, and with the utmost care

After eight months, extensive asbestos remediation has been successfully completed at the iconic Kotva department store. All work was carried out under the supervision of the Prague Public Health Authority and under the continuous supervision of an accredited inspection body, which monitored compliance with all safety criteria.

Preparation and approval of the procedure

The remediation work began in February this year. Before the actual removal of asbestos, a thorough structural and technical survey was carried out to accurately map the presence of asbestos. Based on this survey, a comprehensive technological procedure for the remediation work was drawn up, with a detailed definition of the scope and methodology of implementation, which also served as the basis for the proper notification of asbestos work to the regional public health department in accordance with applicable legislation.
The remediation work was carried out in three phases, the first of which involved the removal of materials and structures containing asbestos from the interior of the building, followed by the dismantling and remediation of the building's facade, and finally the removal of the roof structure, where asbestos was also found.

Safe execution and independent supervision

The remediation work was carried out by the authorized remediation company DILMUN SYSTEM, s.r.o., in accordance with the procedures approved by the Prague Public Health Authority. At the same time, throughout the entire duration of the work, an independent inspection of the effectiveness of the asbestos remediation was carried out by the accredited inspection body Foster Bohemia, s.r.o., going beyond the scope of standard procedures and Czech legislation. The inspectors of the inspection body ensured ongoing supervision of compliance with remediation procedures, including compliance with the required pressure difference in hermetically sealed controlled areas. At the same time, they carried out control measurements of asbestos fiber concentrations in areas outside the closed controlled areas where the remediation work itself was taking place. The inspectors issued instructions to complete the individual phases of asbestos remediation, to remove the closed controlled zones and all related protective measures, based on the sub-limit results of the control measurements.

The outcome of the inspection is an accredited inspection report confirming compliance with all requirements and safety criteria for effective asbestos remediation with international validity, archived for a minimum of 40 years.
The entire process of extensive asbestos remediation was under the thorough supervision of the Prague Public Health Authority. Since the start of remediation work in the Kotva department store, health inspectors have carried out a total of eight unannounced detailed inspections directly on site. They focused in particular on the technology used to remove materials containing asbestos and compliance with pre-agreed safety procedures in accordance with applicable legislation. An integral part of the inspections was also the measurement of the concentration of reparable asbestos and mineral fibers. The measured values in the working environment complied with the specified limits in all cases.

Health and environmental protection

During asbestos remediation, several hundred tons of asbestos waste were legally removed and stabilized. The material was removed in hermetically sealed controlled zones connected to extraction units with HEPA filters, where it was also penetrated and packed into thick-walled impermeable containers. The hermetically sealed controlled zones were connected to vacuum monitoring equipment with the required pressure difference in the range of -20 to -40 Pa and a minimum of five air changes per hour. The packaged asbestos waste was transported through material decontamination gates, where the surfaces of the packaging were cleaned again, to special containers and then taken for professional ecological disposal to a hazardous waste landfill.

"The safety of workers and residents was our absolute priority during the asbestos removal. All work was carried out in accordance with applicable legislation, and beyond the legal requirements, we also involved an accredited inspection body in the process, which continuously supervised and monitored the entire remediation and performed control measurements, thus ensuring the safe and efficient progress of the work," says Jana Vrábelová, Head of Development for Central and Eastern Europe at Generali Real Estate.

Further information

Details on the asbestos remediation process, supervision arrangements, and recommendations for similar interventions in historically valuable buildings are described by Ing. Zoja Guschlová, Ph.D., head of the accredited inspection body Foster Bohemia, s.r.o.

"The remediation of such a large and technically complex building is a long-term process that requires a systematic approach, careful planning, and coordination between many entities. We would like to thank everyone—the authorities, experts, and the public—for their cooperation and patience. Together, we have proven that even in the center of a metropolis, such a demanding asbestos remediation can be carried out safely and to a standard that significantly exceeds legal requirements," concludes Jana Vrábelová.

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.
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Since 2020, the building has been owned by Generali Real Estate S.p.A.
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"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.
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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

Asbestos remediation and next steps

Asbestos removal from the interior of the building will begin in mid-February 2025, followed by replacement of the façade cladding and roof layers from approximately mid-March. These remedial works are scheduled to be completed by September 2025.

The asbestos removal works are subject to strict regulation. The whole process of asbestos removal will be carried out according to the procedure developed by a Specialist Contractor, approved by the relevant regional Hygienic Authority responsible for public health protection and supervision of the measures undertaken to limit the risks of working with asbestos.

These remedial works will be further monitored and supervised by a specialist inspection body. All work will be carried out in restricted and controlled areas, with asbestos handling zones being thoroughly secured. There will be regular measurements and monitoring of the relevant environment during the works. This will ensure maximum safety for all persons within and around the building.

Future and sustainability

The renovation of Kotva is a significant step towards a sustainable future for the city, which not only reflects Generali's commitment to environmental responsibility but also sets new standards for modern commercial spaces. Kotva will be one of the first retail buildings in Central Europe to become a symbol of technological innovation and energy efficiency. Upon completion of the redevelopment, Kotva will achieve operational carbon neutrality in full compliance with European environmental standards (EU taxonomy) while meeting the highest level of BREEAM sustainable certification.

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.