The career of Eva Jiřičná was defined by a forced exile from Czechoslovakia in 1968, which prompted her to establish a prominent architectural practice in London. Her work, recognized for its modern aesthetic and technical precision, bridges the gap between large-scale civic projects and the intricate design of retail interiors and iconic glass staircases.
Early Career and Displacement
Born in Zlín in 1939, Jiřičná studied architecture at the Czech Technical University and later at the Academy of Fine Arts in Prague, graduating in 1963. Her initial professional experience involved state administration work at ÚBOK. Following a 1968 work placement in London with the Greater London Council, the Warsaw Pact invasion prevented her return, leading her to settle permanently in the United Kingdom. She became a British citizen in 1976.
Professional Rise in Britain
During the 1970s, she gained experience at the Louis de Soissons Partnership, contributing to the construction of Brighton Marina. She formed her own practice with David Hodges before launching Jiřičná Kerr Associates in 1985. Her reputation grew through retail design for fashion entrepreneur Joseph Ettedgui and high-profile work at Lloyd's Headquarters. Her firm, eventually rebranded as Eva Jiřičná Architects, expanded into diverse projects, including the Canada Water bus station and various pedestrian footbridges.
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Following the Velvet Revolution, Jiřičná resumed significant professional activity in her home country. She collaborated with Petr Vágner to establish AI DESIGN in 1999. Her notable Czech projects include the reconstruction of St. Anna Church in Prague, the Tomas Bata University buildings in Zlín, and the Zlín Congress Centre. She also serves as a pedagogical leader, heading the Department of Architecture at the Academy of Arts, Architecture and Design in Prague since 1996.
Design Philosophy
Jiřičná is noted for integrating engineering principles with aesthetic interior design, often maximizing space through strategic lighting and industrial materials. Her approach emphasizes detail, frequently incorporating glass into her structural designs. Throughout her career, she has maintained a preference for modern materials, notably avoiding wood and soft furnishings in her stylistic choices. Her influence extends into academic and critical spheres through her work as an exhibition curator and opinion journalist.
Fast facts
- Born: 3 March 1939, Zlín, Czechoslovakia
- Education: Academy of Fine Arts, Prague (MA, 1963)
- British Citizen: 1976
- Notable Award: Commander of the Order of the British Empire (1994)
- Notable Award: Jane Drew Prize (2013)
- Notable Award: Order of the White Lion 3rd Class (2024)
- Academic Role: Head of Department of Architecture, Prague (since 1996)
- Known for: Glass staircases and modern retail interiors
Questions readers ask
What is Eva Jiřičná's most famous design element?
She is widely recognized for her modern, minimalist glass staircases featured in numerous architectural projects.
Did she design any projects for Apple?
She was approached by Steve Jobs to work on the Apple store concept, but the collaboration did not proceed.
What is AI DESIGN?
AI DESIGN is an architectural firm founded by Jiřičná and Petr Vágner in 1999, based in the Czech Republic.
Achievements
- Commander of the Order of the British Empire
- Jane Drew Prize
- Royal Designer for Industry
- Trained at Academy of Fine Arts, Prague
