Prague district to get color-changing building in homage to Balkan country

A new building is planned for Prague’s Pankrác district, featuring a facade that will change appearance based on the surrounding light conditions. It also pays tribute to the historical ties between Czechia and a region in the Balkan country of Montenegro.

The structure, called Boka—named after the Montenegrin Bay of Kotor—will be a multifunctional structure containing office spaces, retail stores, and a supermarket. Construction is expected to commence this year, with completion anticipated in 2026.

Designed by the architectural studio Perspektiv and planned by real estate group Crestyl, the structure will replace two existing buildings situated between the Pankrác and Pražského povstání metro stations on the red C line in Prague 411. 

“The energy solution integrates modern technologies aimed at increasing efficiency. The use of alternative energy sources and photovoltaic panels is expected to contribute to sustainability goals,” stated Jan Juráš, an architect at Perspektiv.

The Czech connection with the Bay of Kotor dates back to the Austro-Hungarian Empire when Czechs lived and worked in the region. Their involvement continued into the First Republic, with the first organized trip to the area in 1934. Czechs also played a key role in the local 1918 uprising, led by František Rasch, a Czech naval officer, who is commemorated with a monument. 

This historical bond is reflected in Prague, where a street and public transport stop—Kotorská—are named after the bay. The connection is further reinforced by the new multifunctional building, Boka, in Prague.

The building design incorporates ecological materials and energy-saving mechanisms. Rainwater will be collected and stored for use in irrigation and sanitation. Heating and cooling will be managed through alternative sources, while photovoltaic panels will be installed on the roof to support energy conservation.

The building’s facade will change appearance throughout the day as a result of varying light conditions. Greenery is included in the design for environmental and aesthetic purposes.

Boka will contain 11,000 square meters of office space, which will be available to businesses of different sizes. A two-story foyer will include a reception area and a café, and underground garages will provide parking and bicycle storage.

The retail portion of the building will occupy 3,700 square meters and will include stores and a supermarket. A public passage will run through the structure, allowing pedestrian access and integrating it with the surrounding urban environment.