Eva Jiřičná

Who is Eva Jiřičná?

Eva Jiřičná CBE RA is a renowned Czech architect and designer, active in London and Prague. She is known for her attention to detail and work of a distinctly modern style. Jiřičná is also famous for her steel and glass staircases.

Eva Jiřičná is an architect and interior designer, best known for her innovative use of industrial materials in retail and commercial spaces. Jiřičná was born in Prague, Czechoslovakia. She studied engineering and architecture until 1962, when she earned an MA at the Prague Academy of Fine Arts.

In 1968, Jiřičná moved to London, working as an architect with the Greater London Council. A year later, she became an associate in the Louis de Soissons Partnership. Here, she spent eight years working on design and construction of the Brighton Marina. By the end of 1980 she had formed her own practice alongside David Hodges. From here, she began to be recognized for her work in architectural competitions with her business partner. During this time, Jiřičná also shifted from technical architectural projects to interior design assignments, but still incorporated the complexities of her architectural background.

Jiřičná continued to gain recognition in the mid-eighties. She met fashion designer and entrepreneur Joseph Ettedgui, designing several of his Joseph retail shops in London, and eventually his own Knightsbridge flat. By 1985 she had formed Jiřičná Kerr Associates with Kathy Kerr, a practice which is still operating, now under the name of Eva Jiřičná Architects. Her business of ten team members works on projects including architecture, interior design, and furniture design.