Czech Grand Design Awards 2025: Winners Revealed | Jiří Krejčiřík & Eva Eisler Honored

Czech Grand Design Awards 2025: Jiří Krejčiřík Crowned Grand Designer of the Year

The Czech Grand Design Awards for 2025 were presented Wednesday evening in Prague, celebrating the best in Czech design across multiple disciplines. Jiří Krejčiřík took home the top honor, being named Grand Designer of the Year, chosen from across all categories. The awards, featuring seals designed by last year’s Grand Designer Jan Černý, were presented at a ceremony in the Stavovské divadlo (Stavovské Theatre). A recording of the event is available to view on ČT art here.

Krejčiřík, 36, has turn into a sought-after designer both domestically and internationally since his debut at the Designblok festival in 2019, exhibiting in prestigious galleries. According to the judging panel, his latest designs demonstrate an ability to adapt his unique style to the needs of manufacturers while maintaining his creative vision.

A Night of Honors: Category Winners

Beyond the Grand Design award, several other designers were recognized for their contributions. O+M studio received the award for Spatial Design of the Year for their exhibition architecture for the Palác ilustrace (Palace of Illustration) in Český Krumlov. Aleš Hnátek was named Fashion Designer of the Year for his collections Wardrobe 2 and Wardrobe 3. Bold Studio, led by Markéta Kratochvílová, won in the Jewelry category with their Chloris collection.

The award for Graphic Design of the Year went to Ondřej Báchor, Jan Novák, and Matěj Činčera for their novel ceremonial design of the Constitution of the Czech Republic. Tereza Mundilová was recognized as Photographer of the Year for her function with publications like Re-Edition Magazine and Zeit, as well as campaigns for Puma, and Adidas. Magdalena Rutová took home the Illustration of the Year award for her work on the play Má vlast, the Milan Triennale installation, and the book Ženská práce (Women’s Work).

In the Product Design category, Květná 1794 was honored for their Drop cup and saucer collection and the Haoto glass and vase collection designed by Japanese architect Kengo Kuma. Eda Babák was awarded in the Photography category for his work with GHMP, Vogue Art Project, and MILE Magazine, as well as his Klauzura 2025 photographs for Elle Decoration.

Eva Eisler Enters the Hall of Fame

This year also marked the induction of Eva Eisler into the Hall of Fame of Czech Design. Eisler, a designer, architect, and long-time educator, has profoundly influenced Czech design since 1989. After living and working in New York from the 1980s, she returned to the Czech Republic in 2006 and led the K.O.V. Studio at the Academy of Arts, Architecture and Design in Prague for nearly two decades, mentoring a generation of designers.

Eisler received a standing ovation at the ceremony. She spoke of the importance of community and collaboration in the creative process, acknowledging the support of those who inspired and believed in her. She also congratulated the organizers on the 20th anniversary of the Czech Grand Design Awards, praising their role in promoting Czech design and recognizing its leading figures.

A New Category: Spatial Design

For the first time, the Czech Grand Design Awards included a category specifically for Spatial Design. O+M studio’s work on the Palác ilustrace exhibition was lauded for its bold use of color and unconventional materials, creating immersive and impactful spaces. According to the organizers, the studio’s approach is a fresh and unique contribution to the Czech design landscape.

Jan Černý’s Continued Influence

While Krejčiřík was the night’s biggest winner, the influence of 2024 Grand Designer Jan Černý was also felt. Černý designed the seals presented to all the winners this year. He is also actively involved in this year’s Designblok festival, serving as a judge in the Diploma Selection section for emerging designers. Designblok, founded in 1999, showcases new developments in Czech and international design.

Černý gained significant recognition for his collection of clothing designed for the Czech Olympic and Paralympic teams in 2024. He continues to collaborate on diverse projects, including a new sneaker line with Prestige, celebrating a decade-long partnership. As reported by Vogue Czechoslovakia, Černý views his role as a judge as an opportunity to identify promising talent and assess their potential for success.

Looking Ahead: Designblok and Beyond

The Czech Grand Design Awards serve as a significant platform for showcasing and celebrating the country’s vibrant design scene. With the Designblok festival underway, the momentum continues, providing opportunities for established and emerging designers to present their work and connect with a wider audience. Krejčiřík’s win, along with Eisler’s induction into the Hall of Fame, underscores the depth and diversity of Czech design talent. The awards, and the ongoing events like Designblok, are crucial in fostering a thriving creative environment and promoting Czech design on the international stage.