It will be built on a brownfield site in Prague's Radlice district as part of the D.O.K project, with construction expected to begin in the first half of 2025 and completion slated for early 2027. The new residence will meet the highest energy efficiency standards (PENB-A), feature green-blue infrastructure, premium fixtures, a significantly reduced carbon footprint, and aspire to a high BREEAM certification rating. The project is designed by the renowned architectural firm Jakub Cigler Architekti.
The four-story Dřevák building will be built on a reinforced concrete base and utilize CLT wood panels for the structural framework and interior partition walls. According to a preliminary LCA analysis, this will replace about half of the concrete volume required, reducing CO2 emissions by around a third (approx. 560 tons of CO2) compared to conventional construction. Additionally, it will store 1,400 tons of CO2 in the wood over its lifespan. The Dřevák building will create a semi-open courtyard shared with the neighboring Onyx and Krystal buildings, adding 101 additional apartments to the D.O.K. project’s portfolio.
As the largest wooden residential building in the country, Dřevák is designed as a residence with smaller units, featuring mostly 1-bedroom and 2-bedroom apartments and one 3-bedroom apartment. “We designed Dřevák as urban housing primarily for individuals and couples, addressing the growing demand for smaller apartments, which account for over 70% of total sales in the Prague market. Larger family apartments will be available in the Onyx and Krystal buildings. Throughout the D.O.K. project, we offer advanced technology, premium fixtures, and a focus on long-term sustainability,” said Lukáš Maděra, Head of Skanska Residential’s Sales Department.
Premium features include secure entrance doors, high interior doors (2,100 mm), certified wooden flooring, underfloor heating, top-quality bathroom fittings, and a sophisticated Smart Home system. Healthy, sustainable materials certified by EPD, FSC, and PEFC standards are also used throughout. Selected apartments include a balcony or garden terrace, while the basement offers storage, parking (including spaces for electric vehicles), a bicycle/stroller storage room, and a washroom for pets and bicycles.
In terms of energy, Dřevák achieves the highest energy efficiency rating, PENB-A, consuming 47% less energy than the 2024 legislative standard. This is achieved with thorough insulation, triple-glazed wooden windows, exterior blinds, and centralized ventilation with heat recovery, which maintains fresh air while saving up to 80% of ventilation heat loss. Solar panels on the roof enhance energy efficiency, while thermal panels and recycled “gray water” preheat hot water.
The Dřevák building includes a green-blue infrastructure, aiming for a high BREEAM environmental certification. It incorporates biodiversity support and rainwater management, with measures like green roofs, rainwater storage tanks, retention reservoirs, and polders to improve the local microclimate. Recycled gray water is used for toilet flushing, and water-saving fixtures inside the building reduce potable water use by up to 44% (approx. 48.5 liters per resident per day).
Located near natural landmarks and parks, Dřevák offers views of Prague and excellent access to the city center, along with amenities in the Radlice area. The project’s quiet, semi-public courtyard will include seating areas, a gazebo, benches, stepped seating, and a playground.
The entire D.O.K residential project, including the Dřevák building, was designed by Jakub Cigler Architekti. “Our aim was to create a pleasant, high-quality place for people who want to live in the city but stay connected to nature. Dřevák is for those who appreciate the smell of wood and seek a lifestyle that responsibly addresses global issues. The D.O.K complex creates a peaceful, diversified courtyard with views of the surrounding nature and Radlice Valley, maintaining the site’s intimacy while connecting it to the surroundings,” said Jakub Cigler, founder of Jakub Cigler Architekti.