Where? In Josefov, Prague's historic Jewish quarter, near Charles Bridge, Wenceslas Square and Old Town Square. What's the style? Built around an inner courtyard, the hotel - opened this summer - has a dynamic facade inspired by the three-dimensional quality of Czech Cubism. It's an anachronism? And a pleasing one, too. Consisting of a series of inner and outer spaces that flow around a central courtyard, this seven-storey structure gracefully abuts the stone-clad blocks of its more seasoned neighbours. Understated, then? Created by renowned Czech-born, London-based architect and designer Eva Jiricna, the hotel meshes modern materials such as glass and steel with stone and wood to create a coolly coherent whole. Big or boutique? Somewhere in between. Each of the 110 compact rooms has been designed to optimise space and light. The bed-unit has integrated storage and entertainment facilities, while sliding mirror doors and lacquered surfaces give a reflective quality. Sounds a bit harsh? The shiny surfaces are offset by the warmth and texture of the bed linen and the bright colours of the designer blankets, throws and cushion covers. Who goes there? Design buffs, who love the clever use of space, and the fact that every piece of furniture has been carefully selected to fit the aesthetic framework - from the Baleri armchairs and Philippe Starck fittings in the guestrooms, to the Thonet chairs and tables in the breakfast room. What's in it for the less aesthetically minded? The four-star hotel has excellent conference facilities, a health club and rooftop terrace with dreamy views. Anything else we should know? If Prague is on your must-visit list, book now. Fast-replacing Amsterdam as the most popular place for stag weekends, the streets will soon be overrun by men behaving badly. Standard single, 200 euros (HK$1,576) a night including breakfast; single business 220 euros; superior single 240 euros; standard double 240 euros; business double 260 euros; superior 280 euros. Rybna 20, 11000 Prague 1, Czech Republic. Tel: [420 2] 2170 0111; www.hoteljosef.com
