Karlovo náměstí shopping complex to undergo major facelift

The business and shopping complex based at Prague’s Karlovo náměstí is set to undergo a major transformation, complete with a new look and total rebranding. It will be renamed from the Charles Square Center to the Karlák Shopping Square, and aims to enhance retail and office space.

The multinational CBRE Group wants to attract new tenants to the complex, and has already signed new deals with major food and drinks firms such as McDonald's and Fruitisimo. Tobacconist and newsagent chain Don Pealo will also move to the complex

According to CBRE representatives, space leases for an international bakery brand and a chain of vegan and vegetarian restaurants are also in the advanced stages of negotiations.

At present, the multifunctional center – based on top of the Karlovo náměstí metro station – houses prominent office tenants such as Phillip Morris, Cisco, DIOR, Commerzbank, and Moët Hennesy. It also features a supermarket (Billa) and a large gym.

The project also includes architectural changes and a “total redesign.” Architect Anna Pospíchalová from CBRE explained that the proposal respects the existing form of the building and aims to “calm the visual image” in the public space.

The facade will be enhanced with high-quality materials and a new lighting system to improve the overall atmosphere in a bid to attract more visitors to the center. Black matte glass and perforated stainless steel will be used to make the complex more attractive. 

"We will unify the design of the individual tenants' logos and the department store itself, and remove large-scale advertising and colorful stickers,” said Pospíchalová.

The owner of the building has not confirmed how much the renovation will cost and when it will be finished.

This development is in line with recent efforts to give the – often seen as shabby – Karlovo náměstí area. Earlier this year, the City of Prague approved plans for a German-Czech architectural studio to redevelop the green space and square in the area (facing the current Charles Square Center). 

Developers want to plant more trees, make the square greener, and improve the overall cleanliness and aesthetic of the region. Work is expected to start in 2026 or 2027.