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Czech Design in London: From Showroom to Real Commissions

When Atelier Bohemia opened in May in London’s Clerkenwell district, it marked a bold move by the CzechTrade foreign office in London – to create a platform connecting Czech manufacturers with British architects and developers. Six months on, it is clear that this concept works. Not only as a showcase of Czech design, but as a genuine generator of business opportunities.

First Results: From Inspiration to Commissions

Since June, more than 40 B2B meetings have taken place directly in the showroom. Just two months after opening, the first deal was concluded exclusively through Atelier Bohemia. Today, 11 Czech companies are presented across three floors – from LD Seating and Kolektiv Ateliers to RAVAK and the traditional glassmaker Moser. Some of them are already reporting significant growth after just six months, and new brands are showing interest in presenting themselves at Atelier Bohemia.

Networking, Sourcing and British Projects

Atelier Bohemia is not just a showroom – it is a hub for networking and collaboration. In 2025, five key events were held, including Design Stop in Clerkenwell and The Magic of Bohemian Christmas, attracting dozens of architects and designers. CzechTrade’s priority is to ensure the smooth operation of the multi-brand space and the onboarding of new companies. These activities are complemented by the development of strategic relationships, significantly driven by Lukáš Zwrtek – whose energy and determination are a true driving force of the project, opening new paths for growth, knowledge sharing, and connecting people and crafts.

In addition to events in London, sourcing days were also organized, during which British studios visited Czech companies in Crystal Valley. The result? New enquiries and technical drawings for high-end projects.

However, Atelier Bohemia is not only about design – it also connects technologies that are essential for modern construction projects. In 2025, a unique application was developed in cooperation with Sharry Tech, enabling space booking, event management, and contact collection. A QR-based visitor registration system is also in preparation, demonstrating that Czech design can offer not only aesthetics, but also smart solutions for efficient project management.

Penta Real Estate: A Czech Developer Heading to London

A major piece of news is Penta’s return to the British market. Together with Ballymore, it plans to deliver two projects in London – the 52-storey residential tower Cuba Street near Canary Wharf and the final phase of Embassy Gardens in Nine Elms. The value of the joint venture exceeds £700 million (over CZK 20 billion). These projects open further opportunities for Czech subcontractors – from interior design to technological solutions.

Challenges and Plans for 2026

While some companies are already celebrating success, others are still searching for the right route to market. In 2026, an expansion of the showroom, unification of the Atelier Bohemia brand, and additional sourcing events are therefore expected. The goal is for Czech design not to be just a guest, but a stable and integral part of the British market.