Once again this year, selected members of Crystal Valley showcased their work at Central Europe’s largest design exhibition. At Designblok, they demonstrated that contemporary Czech glassmaking and traditional crafts still have much to offer, whether through innovative design, precise craftsmanship or an original, artistically driven approach. Among the exhibitors were Rautis, Kultivar and Sklárna Jílek, whose displays captivated both industry professionals and the general public.

Rautis

Rautis, based in Poniklá, carries on a unique tradition of producing blown glass bead ornaments, which is inscribed on UNESCO’s list of intangible cultural heritage. At Designblok, the company presented a contemporary take on this exceptional craft and demonstrated that traditional techniques have a firm place in modern design.

Kultivar

The Liberec-based design studio Kultivar has long been combining original design, experimentation and work with materials. Its work is rooted in the search for new connections between craftsmanship, aesthetics and contemporary lifestyles, a theme that was also reflected in its presentation at this year’s Designblok, where it collaborated with the LLEV studio.

Jílek Glassworks

The family-run Jílek Glassworks builds on the rich tradition of Czech glassmaking and specialises in handcrafted glass, with an emphasis on precision craftsmanship and originality. At Designblok, they presented a chandelier that combines masterful craftsmanship with a distinctive artistic expression and a contemporary approach to glass design. Find out more about the glassworks HERE.

LASVIT

Lasvit’s ‘Splash’, which captures the movement of water frozen in time. At the Designblok fair, it took on two contrasting forms and became an expression of the tension between opposing forces that constantly collide, intertwine and shape the world of today.

ELIAŠKA

It’s definitely worth mentioning. In 2024, they set up the Eliáška Foundation, and a year later they acquired the entire site of the former Elias Palme chandelier factory. Since then, they have been gradually restoring this extraordinary place and breathing new life into a venue that has had a significant impact on the history of lighting. They were on display here at the Designblok fair, and you can read more about them here.

You can also read about Czech glass and what makes it so special HERE