Interview with Lukáš Klimčák, founder of the brand KLIMCHI, was conducted by Hristina Mikić, director of the initiative Creative Glass Serbia
KLIMCHI, a brand known for its Hobnail collection of decorative crystal tableware (jugs, glasses, vases, bowls), stands on the legacy of the family glass factory Jílek founded in 1905 in Kamenický Šenov, a small town in the Czech Crystal Valley. The brand was established in 2019 as an expression of the new business vision of a family-owned glass factory that stagnated. It was made by one of the youngest members of the family, Lukáš Klimčák, only 24 years old at the time. In cooperation with Frantisek Jungwirth, a young designer whom he hired as creative director, Lukáš breathed new life into old glass products.
Already in 2021, KLIMCHI was among the nine most interesting brands in the field of interior design according to The Sunday Times.
Hobnail glassware became very popular in America during the 1940s and is usually associated with the work of American glass designer Frank Fenton. Using the technique of relief half spheres, he made numerous pieces in opal glass.
Hobnail glass, invented by the end of the 18th century in France, was quickly spreading, especially throughout England. It was very popular in Bohemia in the 19th century and became part of the Czech glassmaking tradition. From there, different molds and techniques for the so-called glass with spheres (čočkami) were transferred to other European countries. In some places, for example in France, this type of glass is called pineapple glass, while in other was called dew drop glass. The fact that the glass factory in Paraćin made hobnail jugs and glasses in the mid-1930s, as well as that similar models were made in the glass factory in Hrastnik, is also quite interesting.
It was very important for me to connect the brand with the tradition of Czech glass production, local people and their skills. I think we have something to be proud of as a nation and we should not be afraid to show it abroad," says Lukáš.
After studying in Austria, Finland and England, Lukáš Klimčák returned to his family in Kamenický Šenov.
For the first few months, I slept in a glass factory. I had no investors, so I built everything from scratch. After some time, I managed to establish the first contacts with stores in England, and to slowly develop the online presence of the company," says Lukáš describing the beginnings of the brand.
KLIMCHI products quickly conquered the world thanks to business partnerships with the English department stores Liberty London and Selfridges, which have always sold only goods with the author’s signature. Lukáš got familiar with their influence and products that do not follow but create fashion trends while he was studying in London. The brand thus immediately became visible to the whole world of professional interior designers and lovers of carefully selected crystal tableware. KLIMCHI exports more than 90% of its production, and the largest markets are in Great Britain and Scandinavia.
After the Hobnail collection, new ones were created – Marika, Kugel, Crust, Linea, Felicity – also inspired by the forms and glass decoration techniques that were made and applied in the family factory for more than a century. This was followed by the KLIMCHI brand’s cooperation projects with well-known interior designers, hotels, the Museum of Glass in Kamenický Šenov, professional and popular magazines.
1.
The new KLIMCHI products differ from the old products of the Jílek glassworks by refined lines and a new palette of colors – from universal (white, gray and black), to blue, green and yellow, to pink and purple. Their market success stands on a well-thought-out marketing and promotion strategy. Buyers of functional products in attractive colors are won over by the story that they are created in an old Czech family glass factory, in a country that already at the beginning of the 18th century was the largest exporter of glass in the world. All products are hand-made of unique Czech crystal (which, unlike English crystal, has always been lead-free) by craftsmen from families that have been engaged in glassmaking for generations – so each piece is perfectly crafted and unique.
Asked how is Czech tradition shaping added value in the production of KLIMCHI, Lukáš Klimčák says:
We are embarked on an exciting journey of rediscovery and revival, breathing new life into techniques that have long been relegated to the annals of history, or worse, forgotten entirely. Our mission is to not only rekindle interest in these traditional methods but to raise them to new heights of creativity and innovation. By seamlessly blending these historical techniques with the clean, minimalist lines of contemporary design and an exciting array of fresh, vibrant color palettes, we are crafting a compelling narrative for the emerging KLIMCHI brand. Our aim is to tell a story that resonates with the modern generation while paying homage to the craftsmanship of the past, offering a bridge between the rich history of glass art and the dynamic, ever-evolving landscape of today's design world. In doing so, we hope to establish KLIMCHI as a brand that not only values tradition but also thrives on reimagining it, creating a unique fusion that captures the essence of both old and new. Our commitment to this exciting journey is an ongoing one, a commitment to art, innovation, and the timeless beauty of glass.”
Creative director František Jungwirth’s original collections – SHADOWS, MONOCHROME EDIT, DRAMA – use the cultural heritage of the Jílek glassworks, such as molds with old patterns or gilding, as elements of a completely new design.
Aside from Czech heritage, where else have you found inspiration for the new collections?
It's not just Czech heritage that fuels our creative inspiration; we draw ideas and concepts from diverse sources worldwide. Our new collections often reflect a blend of cultural influences, nature's beauty, global design trends, and even personal experiences. By weaving these diverse inspirations into our work, we aim to create pieces that resonate with a broad and international audience.”
The business model of the KLIMCHI brand is based on the production and retail of luxury goods at the lowest possible price. In cooperation with well-known interior designers, Lukáš Klimčák also wants to create unique items that promote the local craftsmanship of Czech crystal and that way raise the reputation of the brand. In the first business year, the turnover of KLIMCHI products and services was worth around 40,000 €, and in 2022, already 1.6 million €. Like many European glassware manufacturers with a rich tradition, KLIMCHI is turning to young people in rich Asian countries (China, Singapore, Emirates, etc.) as a new big market.
The brand is constantly developing a modern business model that can make premium glass accessible and socially acceptable for everyday use. Thus, innovations are shaping not only the production under the KLIMCHI brand but the its market placement as well.
Lukáš’s business strategy quickly gives excellent results. The attractive pink KLIMCHI hobnail jugs found their way even into Barbie’s dream house made for the movie Barbie premiered in early July 2023.
In terms of innovations within the KLIMCHI business model, we've embraced a few exciting changes to stay relevant and competitive. One of our key innovations is the integration of e-commerce, enabling us to reach a wider global audience. This move has not only expanded our market reach but has also allowed us to provide a more accessible platform for art enthusiasts and customers worldwide to explore and purchase our glass art.”
From your point of view, do you see new trends in glass art marketization under the creative economy?
Additionally, sustainability and eco-friendliness are at the forefront of our business model. We've made a conscious effort to incorporate eco-friendly materials and packaging into our production process. This reflects our commitment to both art and the environment, aligning with the values of today's conscious consumer. By continuously innovating and adapting our business model, we aim to remain at the forefront of the glass art industry and offer an exceptional experience to our customers, both in terms of our products and our brand's values. We have a dynamic presence in various exhibitions and events, both locally and internationally. For instance, our consistent participation in the renowned Maison et Objet in Paris has allowed us to reach a global audience. We've also recently made our debut at the prestigious Designblok exhibition in the Czech Republic, connecting with our local community. Our approach centers on the art of storytelling, where we share the unique narratives behind each glass art piece. We believe this creates a deeper connection with our customers, allowing them to appreciate the craftsmanship and inspiration behind our work. Furthermore, we're committed to sustainability and use eco-friendly packaging for our products. This reflects our dedication to preserving both art and the environment. Our journey in the world of glass art goes beyond events; it's about connecting through art, stories, and responsibility. We look forward to continuing this journey and sharing the magic of glass art with the world.”
We all know that glass industry brands cannot be developed without a long-term vision. KLIMCHI is modern and dynamic while equally communicating with the tradition of glassmaking. The vision it realizes is the new spirit of youth in tradition.
One of our key goals is to serve as a beacon of inspiration for the younger generation. We aim to kindle their passion for the mesmerizing art of glassblowing, encouraging them to consider it as a viable and exciting career path. In doing so, we hope to contribute to the preservation and advancement of this exquisite craft for generations to come.”