MÁNESOVA 78 Apartment Building
The renovation of this apartment building in Vinohrady was one of the first projects of its kind in which the developer, Karlin Port, completely restored the building before offering the individual apartments for sale. We designed the renovation of the entire building, not just individual apartments. From the facade to the common areas, we treated the whole building as a product—a building that, after renovation, functions not only architecturally but also successfully on the market.
A more subdued look that suits the house
We significantly toned down the original yellow color of the facade to give the house a more elegant and refined look. From the original color scheme, we retained the distinctive green, which we restored on the front door and added to the completely renovated windows. We kept the stucco decorations in a tone nearly identical to the main surfaces so that the house wouldn’t scream with color, but rather its texture and detail would stand out.
Common areas
The entry hall was one of the home’s most striking features. The stucco was preserved but in poor condition, so we completely restored it. We renovated the original elements and highlighted the fine details with gold paint in select areas. The overall look remains understated. We didn’t overwhelm the historical foundation with stylization; we simply helped it function again. The entrance is dominated by a minimalist, Czech-made designer chandelier, which adds a contemporary touch to the space.
Level-up
When setting our standards, we sought materials that reflect the dignity of the house and the era in which it was built. The goal was to distinguish the project from typical developer standards while ensuring it remains naturally livable. We chose marble tiles and herringbone-patterned wood parquet, and applied the same principle to the marble floors. We set the standard with the understanding that we were designing apartment renovations for future residents whom we do not yet know. It is a discipline where the architect works not with a single client, but with the market.
An interior in shades of copper
We designed one of the apartments around warm copper tones, which run throughout the entire interior. Cement plaster on the walls, smoky shades of furniture, and a striking walk-in closet structure featuring a copper frame with ribbed glass. It doesn’t divide the space; it simply defines it precisely.
The bedroom is complemented by graphic wallpaper with a subtle nod to the early 20th century. Otherwise, the interior is clean and contemporary. This is enhanced by the use of light—glass fixtures and exposed cables function as a natural part of the space.
An All-White Apartment
This apartment is built around light. White walls, light-colored floors, minimal contrast. The space is serene and incredibly airy. The only striking element is the black kitchen, which anchors the entire interior.
We used marble here as well—not only on the countertop but also on individual pieces of furniture. The walls are complemented by subtle decorative molding that references the original character of the house. The overall look remains clean and contemporary.
Men's Apartment
Here we're working with a darker palette. More wood, a more pronounced grain, and an overall richer atmosphere. The furniture is more substantial, made of heavier materials, yet still precise and serene.
Instead of marble, we use beige stone with a fine texture, which carries through to the kitchen and other elements. The interior maintains a cohesive look through a combination of wood, stone, and muted textiles. Lighting defines the individual zones of the space.
An apartment with a glass partition
We deliberately opened up the living area to create a sense of width. On one of the floors with lower ceiling height, this was a natural way to give the space a sense of lightness.
The study is not a separate room but part of the living room. It is separated by a glass partition and a curtain that closes off the space as needed. At one moment an open space, the next a fully functional guest room with privacy.
A Renovation That Went to the Core
The building was in poor condition prior to the renovation. The apartments had long served as a dormitory; the structural elements were neglected and, in some places, nearing the end of their service life. Therefore, the renovation could not be merely cosmetic—on several floors, we completely restored the floor structures and made extensive changes to the building’s framework.
We approached the design as a complete renovation of the building, not a series of minor modifications. In the common areas, we restored everything of historical value—the railings, entrance doors, terrazzo, and decorative glazing. We redesigned the apartment layouts with clearer logic and improved functionality. We added large terraces facing the courtyard to the attic apartments.
Similar renovations demonstrate that an architect’s work is meaningful even on the scale of an entire apartment building—as a design that integrates architecture, technical solutions, and the final product for sale.
Why we love renovations
You can find more examples of home renovations in our portfolio. Read examples of how houses can be renovated, how we approach each project, and what makes each one stand out. House renovation is the topic we enjoy most of all.
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by Radka - 18. 4. 2026