An investment fund from the WOOD & Company group has become a joint venture partner in two residential phases of the Vydrica development in Bratislava's historic city centre, beneath Bratislava Castle. Through its WOOD & Company Realitní OPF fund, the group has acquired a 50% stake in the two phases, while developer Lucron continues to oversee preparation, construction and apartment sales.
Alongside the partnership announcement, Lucron has launched the public pre-sale of 80 apartments in a new residential phase located east of the Water Tower. The offering ranges from smaller urban layouts to large family apartments, and the phase will also include 16 commercial units for retail and services. The new phase comprises two buildings designed by Compass Architekti, the studio behind the first Vydrica phase. Apartments range from 36 to 193 sqm across one- to five-room configurations, most with a balcony, loggia, terrace or garden. Underground parking for 155 vehicles will be provided, while surrounding streets remain pedestrian zones.
"Vydrica is today one of the most significant projects in the historic centre of Bratislava and its first phase showed that we can create a quality urban environment that works even after construction is completed. The entry of WOOD & Company confirms confidence in this project and in Lucron's ability to fulfil its ambitions. We are pleased to have a strong and experienced investment partner by our side," said Zoltán Müller, CEO of Lucron.
"The Vydrica location is absolutely distinctive within Bratislava. The project has a high standard and quality architectural execution, which makes it one of the finest residential developments in the capital. We believe in the long-term potential of Vydrica and appreciate the experience and professionalism of the Lucron group," said Martin Šmigura, Local Partner at WOOD & Company.
The first phase of Vydrica received its occupancy certificate at the end of 2024 and residents began moving in during 2025. It brought new pedestrian streets, Kempelenov park, accessible historic ice pits and a fully occupied office building, Vydrica Offices. A further residential section with 23 apartments north of the Water Tower is currently under construction, with completion expected in the first quarter of 2027. Revitalisation of the Water Tower area is also under way, and a pedestrian connection to Bratislava Castle via Žigmundova brána is being prepared.
The new phase has planning permission, with construction due to begin in 2027 and lasting approximately two years. Full completion of Vydrica and its integration with the Old Town is planned for the turn of 2030 and 2031.
