The Brno hotel Continental has been renovated, costing 60 million

Brno - In the center of Brno, after seven months, the reconstruction of the four-star hotel Continental has been completed. In the hotel from the 1960s, which has been a cultural monument since 2009, new conference lounges, a new club, a car arrival area in front of the hotel, and underground garages for 80 vehicles have been created. The investment amounted to 60 million crowns, hotel director Jaroslav Vacek told reporters. According to heritage conservationists, the reconstruction was sensitive and preserved the historical character of the building.
    The hotel, which offers accommodation in 230 rooms, was completed in 1964 according to the design of architect Zdeněk Řihák.
    According to Vacek, the reconstruction of the nearly 50-year-old building was quite complicated, requiring alterations to the sewer system and water connections in the immediate vicinity, with new sections of sidewalk and public lighting. The construction followed the design of architect Michal Kristen.
    The newly modified space in front of the hotel showcased the giant sculpture Birds by sculptor Olbram Zoubek from the 1960s, which also underwent restoration. The 25-ton concrete statue had to be temporarily removed from the area in front of the hotel. Along with the sculpture, other small architectural features in front of the hotel were also renovated, including a commemorative plaque that reminds visitors that the birthplace of the world-famous architect Adolf Loos once stood on the site of today's hotel. "During the reconstruction, it was possible to avoid damaging the hotel building. The extension harmoniously complements the hotel," said Martin Zedníček, head of the monument preservation department of the Brno City Hall.
    According to Vacek, further investments in the hotel are planned; saunas and hot tubs are to begin construction for guests this fall.
    The owner and operator of the hotel since 1993 is the Sevas company, which also owns the Grand Hotel Jihlava in Jihlava. In the Continental, where single rooms range from 1700 CZK to 3200 CZK, there are 80 to 90 permanent employees. According to the hotel's director, it was occupied at about 40 percent this year, with fewer reservations, partly due to the reconstruction.
    There are just under ten four-star hotels in Brno, which primarily earn their income from congress and trade fair tourism. According to experts, Brno is characterized by hosting several one-off events during which the demand for hotels is high.