• Address:

    Bedřichov 52, 468 12 Bedřichov, Czech Republic

  • Client:

    Museum of Glass and Jewellery in Jablonec nad Nisa, Czech Republic

  • Description of work:

    Restoration

  • Realization:

    2016

The subject of renovation and restoration works was the last standing building (a timber cottage) of the old glass-making settlement of Kristiánov, which now forms part of the collections of Museum of Glass and Jewellery in Jablonec nad Nisou. The project was awarded by the Patria Nostra Prize as an exemplary investment and architectural achievement contributing to rural development and satisfying the needs of its inhabitants and visitors in individual regions of the Czech Republic.

Kristiánov was founded in 1774 by Johann Leopold Riedel, the progenitor of one of the most important glass-making families of Czech origin. Over three generations, the Riedel family built a glass-making empire dominating the production of glass and costume jewellery in the area of the Jizera Mountains, which used to count among the most important glass-making regions in the whole world. Until 1887, the heart of the settlement was the glass works supplied with wood from the foresters and raw materials delivered by coaches from the valley. In the beginning, Kristiánov produced chalices and cups made of hollow glass, mazers, pharmacy bottles, vials and chandelier trimmings. In the 19th century, local glass manufacturing moved to pressed glass rods, tubes and rods for the pressing of jewellery beads.

Only this single timber structure was preserved to the present day. It originally served as a lodging house for glassmakers and, later, as a tavern and recreational facility called Liščí bouda (Fox Cabin). The works aimed to restore the structure’s historical value and to improve the functional infrastructure for visitors and guides. All parts of the structure were restored, from the stone basement to the timber upper structure, to the roof, which was covered with traditional wooden shingles. New sanitation facilities were added (including electricity, water and sewage) together with a basic refreshment bar for the visitors, who have to walk or ride a bike for at least 3 to 5 kilometers to reach the place. The roofed terrace provide shelter from the elements and a resting place with a view of the surrounding countryside for visitors enjoying their refreshments.

The Museum’s displays in the building are slightly modified and an interactive exhibition display was opened in the attic, which was not previously accessible to the public. The displays provide a detailed overview of the history of the now long-abandoned glass-making settlement.

Patria Nostra Prize award for an exemplary investment and architectural achievement contributing to rural development and satisfying the needs of its inhabitants and visitors in individual regions of the Czech Republic. See more: Patria Nostra Prize

More info on Glasswork Museum: KRISTIÁNOV – A KEY TO THE HEART OF THE JIZERA MOUNTAINS