Konsepti celebrates its 30th anniversary

Curiosity, joy, and fascination with global design were at the birth of Konsepti. From the very beginning, our goal has been to bring exceptional furniture to the Czech Republic, share stories, and encourage architects and clients to create inspiring spaces. Read how our founders, Lucie and David Řezníčkovi, reflect on three decades of Konsepti's existence.

What led you to found Konsepti 30 years ago?

Above all, curiosity, enchantment, and joy... later, a passion for good architecture and interior design and a desire to bring all that was beautiful and newly discovered from around the world to the Czech Republic. To give Czech architects and clients the courage and arguments to work together—ideally with us—to create extraordinary places to live and work.

What was your vision in the beginning and how has it evolved over three decades?

It wasn't really about a vision. The 1990s were unique – the market was empty, experience was lacking. We were young and rebellious. We enjoyed discovering extraordinary creators, projects, and products abroad and bringing them to the Czech Republic. Passing on those stories of creativity and courage. Pushing boundaries and providing exceptional service.

What projects is Konsepti currently working on? Are there any new showrooms, brand portfolio expansions, special collaborations, or initiatives focused on designers and architects?

We want to give ourselves a gift for the company's 30th anniversary—but we're not going to reveal what it is. We are actually narrowing our brand portfolio; we prefer depth and intensity in our collaboration with the best. We are learning to do complex projects better and better. We are actively working with the promising projection of our Konsepti Stage, where we are able to present project designs in a realistic perspective with high quality and intensity.

We are proud of the implementation of two prestigious projects – the Slovak National Gallery in Bratislava and the Fairmont Hotel in Prague. In both cases, we acted as the main supplier of loose furniture. In the case of the hotel, this involved coordinating more than 50 different suppliers from Europe, America, and Asia. We are currently supplying seating elements for the Prague-Bubny railway station.

What are your long-term plans and vision for Konsepti for the next 5–10 years? Where would you like to take the company?

The goal is not to multiply turnover, but to grow organically—with the condition of sustainable profitability and sufficient resources for development. We have been here for 30 years, we have reached a turnover of 300 million, we are no longer a small company. The most demanding thing is internal restructuring—changing mindsets and openness to new things. We want a company where experienced and motivated people work, people who can build and maintain relationships with demanding and creative architects and bold clients. Such colleagues are not easy to find these days.

What do 30 years of Konsepti mean to you personally? What emotions does this anniversary evoke in you?

Nothing surprising... some sentimentality, nostalgia comes up. Feelings that everything used to be simpler and easier. Today, it is much harder to come up with something new, to attract attention. By the next day, your great idea has been copied or imitated. But there is no time to worry about it – there are clients, architects, deadlines, other challenges.

We try to surround ourselves with young and talented people who understand our DNA and are able to develop and enrich it with new energy. Few things are as certain as the fact that in a few years, Lucie and I will no longer be at the helm. Only then will it become clear how sustainable our concept really is. 

How would you describe Lucie's role and contribution to the future direction of the company? What are her visions and how do you complement each other?

Another cliché looms... The company is our fourth child, alongside our boys, and we belong to a generation that often gave more to it than to ourselves. Or rather, it took most of our energy. It was often 24/7. Neither of us is a born entrepreneur; we put our hearts into things. Konsepti was created as a tool to fulfill our work and life dreams.

Lucie never wanted to lead a team—she is completely devoted to her architects and clients. I try to build systems, tools, and sustainable principles. To ensure cash flow and gain the trust of our suppliers. The hardest part is handing over the reins—giving space to younger colleagues and new ideas. We don't always agree on everything, but we are learning to be open to each other's perspectives. Sometimes sparks fly, and we often take it home with us. But that's part of it. It's simply our baby.